PMMA: the plastic cousin of glass

We offer a variety of materials on PlastShop.se, but today we want to focus on one of the most interesting and versatile materials: PMMA, or poly(methyl methacrylate) as it is also called. What makes PMMA so unique, and why do we use it in so many different applications?

One of the most striking properties of PMMA is its optical clarity. With a light transmission of 92% it is one of the most transparent plastic materials available. This makes it an excellent choice for applications where light and visibility are important, such as in displays and signs.

UV resistance and weather resistance

But PMMA not only has high optical clarity, it is also very resistant to UV radiation and weathering. This means that it can be used outdoors without losing its clarity or strength, even in areas with strong sunlight. How important is it for a material to withstand the sun's rays in your business?

This makes PMMA an excellent choice for applications such as outdoor advertising, lighting and other areas where the material will be exposed to weather and wind. But how does PMMA differ from other materials, such as PC and PETG?

Comparison with PC and PETG

PC, or polycarbonate, is another common material used in many applications. It has high optical clarity, but is not as resistant to UV radiation as PMMA. PETG, or polyethylene terephthalate glycol, is a more flexible material that is easier to process, but does not have the same optical clarity as PMMA.

But what makes PMMA so sensitive to heat? When we process PMMA we must be very careful not to damage the material. How do you avoid damaging your material during processing?

Processing of PMMA

When we process PMMA we must be aware that the material can be easily damaged by heat. This means that we must use the right tools and techniques to avoid damaging the material. We must also ensure that the material is clean and dry before we process it, to avoid it becoming damaged or dirty.

Typical applications for PMMA include displays, signs, lighting and aquariums. It is also used in many other areas, such as medical technology and the automotive industry. What do you think is the most interesting application for PMMA?

Applications for PMMA

Displays and signs
Lighting
Aquariums
Medical technology
Automotive industry

But there are also some things to consider when using PMMA. One of the most important is that the material can be brittle and easy to damage. This means that we must be careful when handling it, and ensure that it is not subjected to too much stress or load.

Another thing to consider is that PMMA has a Shore hardness of 65 Shore D. This means that it is a relatively hard material, but still can be flexible and formable.

Finally, we want to encourage you to think about what PMMA can do for your business. Can you think of any applications where the material's optical clarity, UV resistance and weather resistance would be beneficial? We would be happy to help you find the right material for your next project, so do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your needs.

If you want to know more about PMMA or other materials we offer, you can visit our website or contact us directly. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the right material for your business.

in News