Differences Between Acrylic and Polycarbonate
Find the Best See-Through Plastic for Your Application
Acrylic (PMMA) and polycarbonate (PC) are similar plastics in having high clarity, meaning the materials are see-through like glass. They’re both frequently used in applications requiring see-through material that is stronger than glass, such as aquariums, storm window linings, glasses, computer screens, and more.
What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Acrylic Over Polycarbonate?
Poly(methyl methacrylate), also known as acrylic, is a clear thermoplastic homopolymer often used as a more resistant alternative to glass. Acrylic is shinier than polycarbonate, giving it a more smooth glass-like quality. It’s also affordable, making it one of the most common types of clear moldable plastics available to the general public.
Benefits of acrylic plastic:
- Transparent properties
- Weather resistance
- Chemical resistance
- Surface Hardness
- Dimensional Stability
- Non-toxic composition
Drawbacks of acrylic plastic:
- Not as strong as polycarbonate
- Prone to cracking under stress due to its brittle nature
- Doesn't bend as well as polycarbonate
What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Polycarbonate Over Acrylic?
Polycarbonate (PC) is a naturally transparent plastic often used in injection molding processes. At room temperature, it is incredibly durable upon impact, being shatter-resistant due to its amorphous construction.
Benefits of polycarbonate plastic:
- Durable: PC is 250 times stronger than glass
- Easily shapable
- Lightweight
- Capable of thermal insulation
- Many color options
- Versatile
Drawbacks of polycarbonate plastic:
- Prone to scratches and dents with use over time
- Less commercial availability
- More expensive
How to Choose Between Polycarbonate and Acrylic
Retlaw Industries manufactures thermoplastic parts with both acrylic and polycarbonate materials. Depending on the qualities you want your see-through plastic products to have, Retlaw can design a solution. For over 40 years, our Hartland, WI facility has produced quality injection molded products for a wide variety of industries. Contact us to learn more or to get a FREE product quote.
Common applications of acrylic plastic:
- Lenses
- Plastic nails
- Aquariums
- LCD screens
- Furniture
- Sporting equipment
- Colored splashbacks
Common applications of polycarbonate plastic:
- Electronic components
- Construction materials
- DVDs and Blu-ray discs
- Automotive parts
- Aircraft parts
- Medical tools
- Smartphone parts
