Plexiglass is simply acrylic glass

Plexiglass is a type of substance with the chemical name Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) , a type of plastic that resembles glass in appearance, only more resistant to breakage.

Alternative names of Plexiglass include: Acrylic glass, Acrylite, Optix, Perspex, Oroglas and Atulas depending on the manufacturing company.

Regarding its chemical structure, the material is made of it is the synthetic polymer derived from methyl methacrylate. Apart from glass material, PMMA can also substitute PC (Polycarbonate) as it’s easier to manufacture and is more cost-effective.

The history of the material dates back to 1928, where it was first introduced by chemical laboratories and units like those of Chalmers and Rohm and then entered the market 5 years later (on 1933) with the trademark “Plexiglass”. Among its more popular uses, was its use on aircraft noses as a glass alternative on World War II.  Although the material in some cases was shattered during collision, it was much less abrasive to the human tissue causing less injuries than typical glass when shattered.

 

Some of the most characteristic properties of the material include:

 

-Strong yet lightweight consistency

-Density that ranges from 1.17 to 1.20 g/cm³ (less than 50% of the density glass).

-Good strength (higher than glass)

-Melting point around 160C/350 F

-Igniting point at around 460C where it transforms to carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and H20 (water).

-Transmission of 92% visible light

-Capacity of filtering ultraviolet light

-Resistance to many abrasive chemicals like

-Improved environmental stability comparing to other types of plastic materials.

-Water absorption ratio up to 0.4% per weight.

-Easy molding capacity—can be altered and molded to fit secondary uses and applications on a professional industrial basis or by hand.

-Acceptance of other stabilizers to increase stability and strength of the material.

-Can be dyed to reach desired shade.