What is the Difference Between Plexiglass and Acrylic?

While there is no difference between plexiglass and acrylic, there can be a difference between those two words and Plexiglas®. Polymethylmethacrylate can be produced by cell casting or extrusion. Plexiglass and acrylic are used interchangeably for materials manufactured by either of those processes. But Plexiglas®, the trademarked material, is made only via cell cast. An extruded acrylic would never be referred to as Plexiglas®.

When acrylic first emerged, it was celebrated as a revolutionary material that combined the clarity of glass with exceptional durability and lower weight. Initially, its primary use was to produce dental prostheses and plates. However, its potential was quickly recognized, and applications expanded to include periscope ports and airplane canopies during World War II. The material's light weight, impact resistance and optical clarity were crucial in these wartime applications, effectively proving acrylic's value in demanding environments.

With the registration of the Plexiglas® brand, acrylic's presence in the commercial market was solidified. This name quickly became synonymous with acrylic sheets, primarily due to the brand's widespread use and high-quality products. In the United States, the name was adjusted slightly to "plexiglass." Soon, other manufacturers introduced their own brands, but plexiglass took hold of modern consciousness, even though there's no difference between plexiglass and acrylic.

Next, the cell goes through a carefully controlled heat treatment in water baths. This step, known as polymerization, transforms the liquid syrup into a solid, glass-like sheet. Polymerization involves breaking the double bonds in the MMA molecules and forming new bonds that link the molecules in long chains, creating polymethyl methacrylate – the chemical name for acrylic. This process is initiated by heat and catalyzed by additives present in the syrup.

To make extruded plexiglass, the liquid material is heated and fed between two rollers until it reaches the desired thickness.

Using either method, the result is a solid material with the unique combination of clarity, strength and lightness we associate with plexiglass. Options include clear acrylic sheets and colored acrylic panels.

The manufacturing process of acrylic, from its beginnings as a liquid monomer to its final form as a transparent, sturdy sheet, is an intricate blend of chemistry and engineering.

Strength and Durability

One of the defining characteristics of plexiglass is its remarkable strength. It's around 17 times more impact-resistant than glass, making it a more durable, safer option for applications where breakage is a concern. Acrylic's durability allows it to withstand everyday wear and tear while maintaining its visual appeal.

Clarity and Light Transmission

Acrylic's optical clarity is one of its most notable features. It offers superior light transmission capabilities, with clear acrylic allowing approximately 92% of light to pass through, more than glass. This high level of transparency makes it an ideal material for applications such as signage, display cases and windows.

Flexibility and Malleability

Plexiglass can be easily formed and shaped, making it highly adaptable. When heated, it becomes flexible, allowing for bending and molding into various forms. This makes acrylic a favorite for designers and manufacturers alike, offering the ability to create a wide array of products, from curved aquarium walls to custom-shaped signage. Plexiglass is also highly machinable and easy to cut and drill.

UV Resistance and Weatherability

With the proper treatment, another outstanding characteristic of acrylic is its resistance to UV light and weather. Unlike some other plastics, plexiglass doesn't yellow or become brittle when exposed to sunlight over time. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain and snow, making it a reliable choice for outdoor applications.

Safety Considerations

In terms of safety, plexiglass is inherently more advantageous than glass. In addition to being shatter-resistant, it's lighter, which makes handling and transportation safer and more efficient. If it does break, plexiglass fractures into large, dull-edged pieces, unlike glass which can shatter into sharp, dangerous shards. Moreover, acrylic is a non-toxic material, making it safe for applications in the food industry or children's toys.

Construction and Architecture

In the world of construction and architecture, acrylic's strength, clarity and weatherability make it a preferred alternative to glass. It is used in window glazing, soundproofing panels, greenhouses and even in structural elements like staircases and bridges. Its high light transmission is ideal for skylights, and its weatherability is perfect for outdoor applications. Plexiglass's flexibility also enables architects to create designs with more complex, curved structures.

Signage and Displays

Acrylic is the material of choice for signage and displays due to its superior clarity and durability. From small nameplates to large outdoor signs, plexiglass provides a sleek, polished look that's hard to beat. It's also extensively used in retail display cases to protect valuable items while maintaining an unobstructed view.

Art and Design

Artists and designers appreciate plexiglass for its malleability and aesthetic appeal. Decorative acrylic sheets provide myriad creative opportunities, and sculptors use plexiglass panels to create stunning 3D artworks. In fashion, acrylic has been used to craft unique, modern jewelry pieces.

Automotive and Aeronautics

Plexiglass is used extensively in the automotive and aeronautics industries due to its strength, lightness and optical clarity. It's used in car headlights, taillights and interior displays. In the aeronautics field, acrylic is found in aircraft windows and canopies. Its impact resistance and optical clarity make it a safe and practical choice for these applications.

Medical and Dental Equipment

In the medical field, the non-toxic nature of acrylic makes it a safe choice for various applications. It's used in the manufacturing of dentures, lens implants for cataract surgery and even in the production of prosthetics. The clarity of acrylic also makes it ideal for use in vision-related medical equipment, such as microscopes and medical visors.

Other Applications

The uses of acrylic have evolved dramatically since its inception. With the advancement of technology, plexiglass has seen innovative applications in electronics, with its use in screens, lenses and even some components of virtual reality headsets. The material's inherent properties of clarity, strength and resistance to weathering, coupled with its ability to be easily shaped and molded, make it a preferred choice for engineers, designers and artists alike. From its beginnings in dentistry to its widespread use in diverse sectors today, the journey of acrylic is a testament to the material's remarkable versatility and enduring appeal.

Cleaning and Care for Acrylic

Proper cleaning and care are essential to maintain plexiglass's clarity and appearance. Regular cleaning can be done using a lint-free microfiber towel and a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution like Brillianize or Novus. It's important to avoid using harsh chemicals, ammonia-based cleaners or abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the surface of the plexiglass. Gently wiping in a circular motion will remove fingerprints and other smudges. With proper cleaning and care, acrylic can maintain its visual appeal for many years.

Repairing and Polishing Plexiglass

If acrylic gets scratched, methods are available for repairing and restoring its surface. You can often polish out minor scratches using a specialized acrylic polish and a soft cloth. Deeper scratches may require more involved repair techniques, such as using fine-grit sandpaper followed by buffing and polishing. It's important to note that while plexiglass can be repaired, prevention is always the best approach. Protective coatings or films can minimize the risk of scratches and maintain the material's longevity.

Environmental Impact and Recyclability of Acrylic

Concerns about environmental impact and sustainability have become increasingly crucial in material choices. Plexiglass presents some favorable qualities in this regard. It is a recyclable material, meaning that waste acrylic can be collected, processed and reused to produce new acrylic products. While the availability of recycling facilities may vary, the recyclability of plexiglass aligns with the global trend toward more responsible and sustainable practices.

Furthermore, acrylic's durability and longevity contribute to its environmental sustainability. Its resistance to weathering and discoloration means that plexiglass products have a longer lifespan than other materials. This reduces the need for frequent replacements, thus reducing waste generation. Additionally, acrylic's lighter weight results in lower transportation emissions, further minimizing its environmental footprint.