Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is an amorphous clear-as-glass thermoplastic. The material is also called acrylic plastic, and sometimes loosely referred to as ‘perspex’.
PMMA is characterized by properties such as high transparency and excellent UV resistance. It has a very high surface hardness and thus good scratch resistance.
PMMA is often used as a replacement for glass due to its very high transparency and light transmission.
Owing to its characteristic properties, PMMA is often used in outdoor applications such as lenses for vehicle taillights and various kinds of products used in the construction industry. PMMA is also suitable for optical application areas such as different types of lens.
Primary properties:
● High transparency
● High surface luster
● Excellent weather and UV resistance
● High hardness and scratch resistance
● Easy to color
● High resistance to alkaline solutions and oils
● Glass-transition temperature of 105°C
Some less optimal properties:
● Relatively low heat resistance (not to be used in applications involving temperatures above 55°C)
● Low resistance to acids and alcohols
● Significantly lower impact resistance than polycarbonate (PC)
● Prone to cracking
