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POLYMETHYL METHACRYLATE (ACRYLIC)(PMMA)

Description

Acrylic is a hard, rigid material (it has a hardness comparable to aluminium) which maintains its clarity even with thick sections and after long exposures to outside atmospheres.  However, it is easily scratched by dust or cleaning.

Properties

PMMA has high strength but is brittle.  It is resistant to ultra violet radiation and weathering although can be vulnerable to crazing which can be worsened by detergents, greases and oils.  It is flammable. Acrylic tends to attract dust so ideally and antistatic additive should be used.

Acryliv Reasrscope Lens

Colouring

As the material is clear a wide range of colours is possible, both solid and translucent. 

Resistance

 

Mineral Acids (dilute)

Excellent

Mineral Acids (concentrated)

Poor

Alkali

Excellent

Alcohol

Good

Ketone

Poor

Aromatic Hydrocarbon

Poor

Chlorinated Hydrocarbon

Poor

Detergents

Excellent

Oils, Greases

Excellent

Finishing

Mouldings can be joined using solvents or welded using ultrasonic welding, hot plate and friction.  Parts can be machined but care needs to be taken to avoid scratching.

Applications

Acrylic Leaflet Dispenser

Because of its good UV stability and excellent clarity many applications of acrylic are lenses, lighting covers (indoor and outdoor), dials and control panels.  Often used for lenses on rear lights of cars.

 Acrylic Taillight

 

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