PROFESSIONAL BLOG
NOVEMBER 23, 2024 • 6 MIN READING
Versatile plexiglass – 8 properties you should know
PMMA sheets, popularly known as plexiglass or Perspex, are our semi-finished products for further processing into finished products. A material with a number of properties that many people are not aware of.
Geir Bergh
Head of Office, Plexx
The combination of these 8 properties provides enormous opportunities for the development of products for various purposes – from windshields and advertising signs to incubators, display products and interior design.
1. Optical clarity
High transparency: Plexiglass is very clear and can transmit up to 92% of light, making it clearer than glass.
UV resistance: Many types of acrylic are UV stable, and do not yellow with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
HIGH LIGHT TRANSMISSION ACRYLIC – CLEARER THAN GLASS
ACRYLIC WINDSHIELD – HALF THE WEIGHT OF GLASS
2. Light weight
Plexiglass weighs about half as much as glass of the same thickness, making it easier to handle and install. The low weight also reduces transportation costs and makes assembly easier.
3. Impact resistance
Shatter-resistant: Plexiglass is 10 times more impact-resistant than regular glass, making it safer in applications where the risk of breakage is high. When broken, it does not shatter into sharp shards like glass does.
4. Versatility
Formability: Plexiglass can be heated and formed into various shapes without losing its optical properties.
Availability in many varieties: It is available in different colors, thicknesses and surface treatments (glossy, matte, etc.).
ACRYLIC IS WIDELY USED IN ART AND LIGHTING DESIGN
5. Durability
Long life: Plexiglass is durable and has high resistance to weather and wind, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Corrosion-free: The material does not rust and can withstand humid environments.
6. Processing
Plexiglass is easier to cut, drill, glue and polish than glass. It can be used with laser cutters and CNC machines for precision work – allowing for great design freedom and efficient production.
7. Environmental friendliness
Plexiglass can be recycled into new acrylic products, making it more environmentally friendly compared to other types of plastic. Surplus material from production can also be reused.
8. Cost-effectiveness
Price: Although plexiglass can be more expensive than regular glass, it is easier to process and transport, reducing overall costs in many projects.
Reduced maintenance: Plexiglass requires little maintenance compared to other materials.
Typical applications
Windshields
Advertising signs and light boxes
Incubators and medical equipment
Display products and furnishings
Protective equipment (e.g. visors)
Art and decorative elements
"Plexiglass combines aesthetic and functional properties that make it a highly versatile material. It is particularly popular due to its optical clarity, impact resistance and lightness, making it a preferred choice in many industries."
Frequently asked questions
Plexiglass (PMMA) is about half the weight of glass, 10 times more impact resistant, and lets more light through (92%). It is also easier to process and shape.
Yes. Acrylic is UV stable and weather resistant. It does not yellow with prolonged exposure to sunlight and tolerates Norwegian climate conditions well.
Laser cutting, CNC milling, thermoforming, gluing, drilling and polishing. We have all the equipment under one roof.
Yes, PMMA can be fully recycled into new acrylic products. Surplus material from production is also reused.
Yes — acrylic comes in a wide range of colors, thicknesses, and finishes: clear, opal, matte, colored, and fluorescent.
Do you have questions about acrylic?
We help you through the entire process – from design to finished product. Contact us to see how we can help you with your production.