PMMA (cast)

Polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) is a transparent amorphous polymer. PMMA is well known under many other (brand)names such as acrylic, acrylic glass, Plexiglas or Perspex. It is very well suited to replace glass where a higher (impact) strength, lower weight and/or easier formability are desired. Important applications are in windows for aircrafts, safety glass, lighting armatures, car lighting and lenses.
Because the weathering resistance of PMMA is very good, it is especially suitable for outdoor applications with a long lifespan.

Specific properties
Density: ca. 1.19 g/cm3.

Mechanical properties: High Young's Modulus, around 3 GPa, strength around 70 MPa. As an injection mouldable material it is quite brittle, but impact resistant types with a lower Young's Modulus and strength are available.
As sheet material it can be much more impact resistant.

Thermal properties: Tg ca. 105 °C, HDT around 80°C.

Chemical resistance: low resistance to organic liquids. Good UV and weathering resistance.

Colour/surface
Colourless and transparent with a very high light transmission. Glossy surface. Can be coloured with transparent pigments.
The refractive index is 1.49.

Processing
Can be injection moulded and extruded. In a different type of process, casting from a liquid precursor, large objects and thick sheets can be made without shrinkage and stress problems.
PMMA can be glued with certain solvents.
Applications

Automotive industry: lighting, such as coloured rear lights
Aerospace: windows in planes and helicopters
Outdoor applications: street lighting, road signs, traffic lights,
billboards
Protection: transparent protecting plates, motorcycle helmet sight,
safety goggles and face guards
Medical: contact lenses
Optical: lenses for phones, camera’s and photocopiers
Other items: aquariums from small to extremely large,
windows and cupolas for submarines