Plastic is one of the most versatile materials known to man, something that has propelled the plastics industry into a trillion-dollar business. Acrylics are two plastic derivatives whose popularity keeps growing with time. Acrylic is a clear, glass-like plastic material that possesses several unique features including high impact strength that make it a useful alternative to glass. Perspex, together with Plexiglas, are premium-branded forms of acrylic. Perspex or acrylic sheets in Sydney are manufactured to the highest possible standards.
Perspex is manufactured from a compound known as methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA) and is usually supplied as extruded sheets. Perspex suppliers offer a wide variety of Perspex sheets, cut-to-size panels, blocks, colors and textures. Perspex is also supplied in a variety of finishes including silky, glossy, frosted, matt, live edge and fluorescent finishes.
Some companies manufacture custom acrylic sheets according to customer preference. Perspex is manufactured using two main methods:
• Batch cell bulk polymerization: This is the most common method used to manufacture Perspex sheets of 0.06 to 6.0 inches (0.16-15 cm)
• Continuous bulk polymerization: Used to make thinner Perspex sheets with faster turnaround times
Perspex Advantages
The key advantages of Perspex are:
• Excellent weather and UV resistance (for clear Perspex)
• High abrasion, flex and shock resistance
• Lower density and weight compared to conventional glass (specific gravity of 1.19 vs. 2.5-3.0 for glass)
• Comprehensive range of colors and finishes
• Clear Perspex sheets offer excellent optical clarity
• 100% recyclability
Perspex Applications
Perspex is a highly versatile material that’s put into myriad applications including POS, signage, visual, acoustics, communication, architecture, design and furniture among other applications. Some companies use it for window glazing, boat and car windows and for making kitchen and bathroom splashbacks. At home, you can also use Perspex to replace your greenhouse glass panels, mirrors, and picture frames.
Perspex vs. Acrylic
As noted above, Perspex and acrylic are nearly identical compounds with only minor differences. Perspex though is of higher quality than acrylic and consequently is more expensive. Acrylic sheets are sometimes used as a substitute for Perspex sheets in Sydney.
One important difference though is that acrylic is less eco-friendly. Acrylic is classified as a group 7 plastic and is generally not easily recycled. Some acrylic plastics are highly flammable and must be protected from fires.
The Perspex sheets Sydney industry is expected to continue growing over the next decade as the materials are put into an ever-growing range of applications. Perspex remains one of the best substitutes for glass and is likely to continue being relevant for a long time to come.
