Plastic acrylic sheet is a synthetic or man-made material that has one or more acrylic acid derivatives. Perspex is the most common type of this sheet, scientifically termed as PMMA. It is a tough, transparent, resistant material widely used as a replacement for glass. A large number of outdoor signs, vehicle tail lights, aeroplane windshields, display shelves, skylights and others are made using this material. In this article, let’s have a detailed look into this wonderful material. Now, with technical knowledge about acrylic sheets, there are many commercial and industrial plants which buy these acrylic sheets as a bulk purchase to contribute to the overall needs of the consumers.
Manufacturing
Plastic acrylic sheet is formed when a monomer (like methyl methacrylate) reacts with a catalyst (commonly organic peroxide). Once the catalyst begins the reaction, it enters to let it continue without becoming a part of the polymer itself. The process of bulk polymerization is used to form a sheet of the material. The reaction takes place inside a mould in which the catalyst and the monomer are poured. The normal acrylic sheets are very different from the cast acrylic sheets and the cast materials are used more for industrial and commercial uses.
Benefits
There are many benefits of using a plastic acrylic sheet. Some of them are:
They are eco-friendly: Since this sheet is synthetic, we can easily reuse it. Once used, you can further reuse it as a plate, shelf or tabletop. This means that it is an eco-friendly choice over other plastic forms
They are easy to use: Glassware and crockery made of plastic acrylic are commonly used in restaurants, probably because they are durable, easy to clean and shatterproof
They are UV resistant: They provide excellent protection against weather and UV rays
They are flexible: As a plastic acrylic sheet is flexible and can be easily moulded into dif shapes, it can be used to create a wide range of products
They are heat resistant: Since they can resist heat up to 160°C, they are ideal products to be installed outdoors
They are dishwasher safe: Dishes made up of plastic acrylic can successfully withhold heat and wear of a dishwasher.
They are affordable: Since they are synthetically manufactured, it is cheaper to purchase them. That’s why they can be used as great replacements for glass and other plastic materials.
Acrylic sheets can be used as a replacement to glass and therefore these are now preferred by homeowners also, to a large extent.
Common Applications
Because of its strength, aesthetic appeal and affordability, a plastic acrylic sheet can be applied to a wide variety of uses in different settings. Some of its common applications include:
Retail shelves and fixtures
POP exhibits and displays
Outdoor and indoor signs
Skylights
Brochure holders
Architectural glazing
LED lighting panels
Transportation
Apart from these, the plastic acrylic sheets are also used in wing mirrors, in chairs, light bulbs, traffic signals, in sneeze guards and also in different types of bus shelters. The rolls of still-hot acrylic are pressed through different areas and made into multiple automotive and technical designs.
Limitations
Although plastic acrylic has a high melting point, when burnt, it produces highly toxic fumes that are harmful to people as well as the environment. People working with this material should use protective clothing and equipment to stay safe.
Plastic acrylic is widely used for a variety of advantages it offers. It is most commonly used for its high resistant power and optical clarity. It serves as a perfect replacement for delicate glass material. Since it is available in a wide variety of colours, designs, textures and styles, a plastic acrylic sheet can be the ideal material for your need.
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