Various Applications
Perspex is a brand name for acrylic, a transparent thermoplastic material made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA):
What it is
Perspex is a premium acrylic brand that's manufactured to high industry standards. It's also known as acrylic glass or plexiglass.
How it's made
Perspex is made from PMMA, a synthetic resin created by combining methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA) with a catalyst. The resulting polymer can be molded into different shapes and sizes.
What it's used for
Perspex is used in many applications, including:
- Splashbacks: A cost-effective alternative to glass, metal, cork, or tile splashbacks.
- Aquariums: Used for viewing ports and pressure hulls.
- Ice rinks: Used for spectator protection shields.
- Aircraft windows: Used in the past, such as in the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress.
- Police vehicles: Used to protect occupants from thrown objects.
- Lighthouse lenses: An important material in making certain lighthouse lenses.
Perspex was developed in the 1930s by German chemist Otto Röhm, who originally called it "Plexiglas". The name was later changed to Perspex in the UK and Lucite in the US.
Polycarbonate is a transparent, strong, and impact-resistant thermoplastic plastic that's used in many applications:
Properties
Polycarbonate is a synthetic polymer with a high melting point and a high modulus of elasticity. It's also resistant to chemicals, UV radiation, and weathering.
Uses
Polycarbonate is used in many industries, including aerospace, automotive, and electronics. It's also used to make food and drink containers, eyeglass lenses, compact discs, dental sealants, and plastic dinnerware.
Production
Polycarbonate is made through a chemical reaction between bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene. It can be made into sheets that are transparent or opaque.
Additives
Additives can be added to polycarbonate to improve its properties. For example, fluoropolymers can be added to improve wear and friction performance.
History
Polycarbonate was first patented in 1953 by Hermann Schnell at Bayer under the name Melron.
FREE CUTTING SERVICE
As we stock a wide range of Perspex and Lexan.
If you require coloured sheets, these may have to be ordered in advance so call first to avoid disappointment.
Need help? Call us for a friendly service
If you are unsure of what you need, give us a call in advance and will happily talk you through the services we offer and provide friendly helpful advice over the phone.
01472 362630
