PMMA: From the war industry to modern applications
Have you ever wondered why acrylic plastic is often simply called ‘acrylic’? It’s because that’s the common name for PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate). The material is widely used as an alternative to glass.
The history of acrylic plastic is actually quite fascinating. Its commercial breakthrough came during the Second World War, when it was used in aeroplanes. But development had already begun in the 1930s through a collaborative project.
During the war, one key application was safety glass. This consisted of two sheets of glass with a sheet of PMMA sandwiched between them. This prevented glass shards from flying off, which was crucial in fighter aircraft. The material also proved to be resistant to the elements, which further increased its value.
After the war, manufacturers needed to find new areas of application. They found them in the signage, lighting and automotive industries. Colouring the material also opened up new possibilities. Suddenly, it was possible to manufacture lantern glass that could withstand the sun’s UV light without fading. Thanks to the material’s suitability for thermoforming, its applications grew rapidly, particularly in sign manufacturing, where its optical properties were superior to those of other materials.
PMMA Today: Properties and Benefits
PMMA is naturally transparent and can easily be coloured. There are also variants with different levels of light transmission. The material is recyclable, making it a good choice even for short-lived products.
We know that PMMA has its drawbacks. It is sensitive to chemicals such as alcohol and acetone. It is also susceptible to scratches unless treated with a protective coating. From a fire safety perspective, it is similar to hardwood.
- Advantages:
- Naturally transparent.
- Easy to work with using woodworking tools.
- Can be bent when heated.
- Easy to dye.
- Light transmission can be adjusted.
- Can be welded with ultrasound or hot air.
- Can be painted and glued (check solvents).
- Recyclable.
Disadvantages:
- Prone to scratching (scratch-resistant variants are available).
- Sensitive to certain chemicals.
- Sensitive to heat.
- Can crack during processing.
- Not self-extinguishing.
Applications for Acrylic Plastic
PMMA is often used where high transparency or easy colouring is required, or both. It is a good choice when aesthetics are important and costs need to be kept down.
We often see PMMA used as protective barriers, for example in ice hockey rinks. It is a cost-effective alternative to PC (polycarbonate) in many situations.
The material is popular in the boating industry, for example as window panes. Caravan and motorhome manufacturers also use it. It is easy to machine, which is a major advantage.
Do you have any ideas about how you could use PMMA in your next project? Please feel free to contact us for more information about the material.
PMMA: Akrylplastens historia och användning