Polymethyl methacrylate

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is often also referred to as acrylic Glass or Plexiglas. It is an amorphous, glass-like thermoplastic produced by emulsion, bulk or solution polymerisation and its properties can be modified by altering production parameters.

PMMA is reversibly formable at temperatures over 100 °C and can be machined, welded and glued. It is light and is resistant to weathering and ageing, but not to stress Corrosion cracking. It can be coloured as required and is chemically resistant to medium Strength acids and alkalis as well as to oil and gasoline. It is attacked by ethanol, acetone and benzene. It is also highly flammable.

It exhibits higher light transmission than mineral glass. PMMA is therefore also used primarily for Lighting purposes (headlight covers, reflectors, glazing) and in optical lenses.

Various types are also suitable for use in:

• Concrete polymer
• Industrial flooring
• Medical applications (bone cement, prosthetics)
• Spun polyacrylic fibres
• Safety doors on machinery
• Prototype construction
• Adhesives