| Acrylic - In the plastics industry most acrylics are polymers of methyl methacrylate (PMMA). Acrylics may be in the form of molding powders or casting syrups, and are noted for their exceptional clarity and optical properties. Acrylics are widely used in lighting fixtures because they are slow-burning or even self-extinguishing, and they do not produce harmful smoke or gases in the presence of flame. The most important properties for acrylic (PMMA) are its optical clarity, low UV sensitivity, and overall weather resistance. Acrylic is often used as a glass substitute. | |
| In 1880 G. W. A. Kahlbaum reported the polymerization of methyl acrylate and at approximately the same time R. Fittig found that methacrylic acid and some of its derivatives readily polymerized. In 1932 J. W. C. Crawford discovered a new route to the monomer using cheap and readily available chemicals. Sheet polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) became prominent during World War II for aircraft glazing. | |
| Features Good Weather Resistance (213), High Clarity (156), Good Chemical Resistance (124), High Impact Resistance (100), Good Impact Resistance (99), High Heat Resistance (96), Impact Modified (76), Good Flow (76), Good Toughness (68), Good UV Resistance (63), 118 More... | Uses Automotive Applications (105), Appliances (59), Lighting Fixtures (55), Household Goods (53), Optical Applications (53), Decorative Displays (53), Medical/Healthcare Applications (41), Profiles (39), Lighting Diffusers (39), Housings (37), 127 More... |
| Disadvantages - Poor solvent resistance - Subject to stress cracking - Low continuous service temperature - Flexible grades unavailable - Poor impact resistance | Typical Properties and Processing Information
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Acrylic (Acrylic) Plastic
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