What exactly is acrylic?

From acrylic paints, acrylic windows and counters, to acrylic nails, acrylic is everywhere around us these days: but what exactly is acrylic? It is a term used for products that contain a substance derived from acrylic acid or a related compound. This transparent synthetic material is also known as polyacrylate.

High grade acrylic is also known as Lucite (Perspex) or Plexiglas (Acrylite). Some other trade names under which acrylic is marketed include Policril, Gavrieli, Vitroflex, Limacryl, R-Cast, Per-Clax, Plazcryl, Acrylex, Acrylplast, Altuglas, Polycast, Oroglass, and Optix.

Acrylic has a wide range of possible end uses. It can be painted using, obviously, acrylic paint; it can be mirrored or made opaque.

This type of plastic fiber is used for thousands of products in many industries. It can be made into products as varied as yarn, fabric, windows (including aircraft windows), display tanks for public aquariums, shower enclosures, shower enclosures, and skylights.

Combine strength and aesthetics. It is clear like glass, but only half as heavy as glass: it is many times stronger, impact resistant and therefore safer than glass. It also insulates better than glass. Still, it is more expensive than glass.

Acrylic can be made into sheets – a thick enough piece of acrylic sheet can be bulletproof! No matter how thick it is, acrylic remains clear. It is highly durable and will withstand the elements longer than other plastics.

It can be shaped and glued to perfection, and scratches can be easily buffed out. It can be cut, sawed and drilled. That makes it ideal for interior and exterior design purposes.

Acrylic is thermoplastic, which means it will soften at high temperatures, but it won’t melt until it reaches 160 degrees Celsius. It is not necessary to keep acrylic items out of the sun, as they are completely inert in solid form and will not yellow in sunlight, but placing them near an open flame or hot surface is not recommended. When acrylic burns, it releases toxic fumes.

The price of acrylic is directly related to the price of oil, since it is derived from natural gas. Since it is a petroleum-based product, petroleum-derived solvents and chemicals should be avoided to avoid marking it.

Acrylic is very easy to care for: normal wiping with a cloth is enough to keep it looking like new. It is important to avoid scratches and chemicals.