What Are Transparent Polymers

by Reg Burns Plastic Fabricator

Transparent polymers or clear plastic are frequently chosen by manufacturers and designers as an alternative for glass that is generally too fragile or too heavy an option. There are a wide range of transparent polymers having their own specific benefits, which makes them ideal for a plethora of applications. However, it is the availability of different options that often lead people to misunderstand the distinctions between the various types.

Each and every type of clear plastic on the market is manufactured using specific materials and techniques. Consumers often find it difficult to understand whether acrylic is kind of glass or plastic. Acrylic is a term used for describing a range of thermoplastics made via derivation of the natural gas. The materials are also collectively known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

Acrylic is sold in the market of Sydney under several brand names such as Lucite, Perspex, Plexiglass, Altuglas, Optix, etc. However, composition of the different products is almost the same. There are many industries which use products from these brands for a wide range of purposes, such as for making displays cases, plinths and Perspex signage in Sydney.

At present, there are two primary types of acrylic available - injection moulded and hand crafted. The former type is prepared by injecting polymethyl methacrylate into moulds. It does not have issues of colouration or hazing, features less relief markings and can withstand impacts more efficiently. Besides that, it also requires less labour and is inexpensive. Therefore, it serves as an ideal material for manufacturing display risers, sunglasses and bakery bins. Items made from it are also used to set up a home glamour studio .

Hand crafted PMMA, on the other hand, necessitates more time as well as labour to be manufactured and is therefore, costly. However, it has virtually zero defects such as haze or relief marks. This is because each and every joint is bonded via hands with the help of solvents that melt and join the acrylic together.

Apart from acrylic, there are many other popular forms of transparent polymers, including polycarbonate and injection moulded polystyrene. Polycarbonate is relatively stronger than acrylic as well as expensive. It is generally used for making armoured windows in government vehicles and airplanes. Injection moulded polystyrene is a low quality aromatic polymer that can have blue haze effect and also relief markings when removed from mould. It is utilised for making inexpensive consumer goods such as frames for license plates, CD cases, disposable razor blades and single-use dinnerware.