Acrylic (PMMA)

Acrylic (PMMA) Resin Characteristics & Uses

To avoid improper resin selection, Contact PMC for additional help in determining the exact engineering resin required for your application.

Please Note: PMC does not sell the material listed below.  We only use the material list to inform visitors that we are experienced in processing these materials for many fine products.

Acrylic (PMMA) Material Data Sheet

MaterialAcrylic PMMA
Chemical NamePolymethyl Methacrylate (Acrylic); Akrylon®; Altuglassup>®; Lucitesup>®; Perspexsup>®; Plazcrylsup>®; Plexiglassup>®; Oroglassup>®; Polycasa Acrylsup>®; Polycasa XTsup>®
StructureAmorphous
OpacityClear to Opaque
StrengthTensile Strength: 5,420-10,700 PSI Yield
Specific Gravity1.14 to 1.20
Shrinkage0.4 to 1.2%
Melting Point212°F
Deflection Temperature

  • 178°F-223°F Unannealed

  • 176°F-222°F Annealed

Service Temperature185°F
ApplicationsAcrylic PMMA resin is used in applications requiring excellent optical, light transmittance and weatherability. It is often used in optical applications, lighting applications, as well as surface finish & scratch finish-resistant applications.

Some specific applications for Acrylic PMMA resin include:

  • Lenses

  • Mobile Phone Lenses

  • Rear Projection

  • Touch Screens

  • Light Fittings

  • Interior & Exterior Automotive Lighting

  • Exterior Appliance Housings

  • Illuminated Signage

  • Street Lighting

  • Industrial Lamps

AdvantagesAcrylic PMMA resin serves as an economical alternative to polycarbonate when extreme strength is not required.

It offers a high refractive index and outstanding light transmissibility. In fact, white light transmittance can be as high as 95%.

Acrylic PMMA also demonstrates the greatest surface hardness of any plastic. It also provides excellent clarity, surface finish, dimensional stability, weatherability and high impact strength.
DisadvantagesThe disadvantages of Acrylic PMMA include:

  • Low Water Absorption

  • Some Notch Sensitivity