Understanding Plexiglass vs Lexan: A Comparative Analysis of Acrylic and Polycarbonate
When it comes to transparent plastics, Plexiglass and Lexan (or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene-Acrylonitrile Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene -ABS Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are two popular choices. While both plastics share similar properties, they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. This article explores the differences between Plexiglass and Lexan, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses.
Material Properties and Clarity
Plexiglass, a trade name for polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), is a type of acrylic plastic. Known for its clarity, it offers a glass-like appearance that makes it highly versatile. The material is lightweight, making it easy to handle and install, and is often used in applications where aesthetics and safety are important, such as signage displays and furniture.
Aema Lexan, on the other hand, is a polycarbonate plastic. Polycarbonate is a more durable thermoplastic known for its high impact resistance. This makes it suitable for applications where safety and durability are paramount, such as protective barriers and safety glasses.
Strength and Impact Resistance
One of the key differences between Plexiglass and Lexan lies in their strength and impact resistance. While Plexiglass is relatively strong and offers good UV resistance, it is more brittle and can crack or shatter under significant impact. In comparison, Lexan is much stronger and can withstand significant impact without breaking, making it an ideal choice for applications requiring high impact resistance.
UV Resistance and Weight
Both Plexiglass and Lexan offer reasonable UV resistance, with Lexan typically having a built-in UV coating to protect against yellowing and degradation. However, Plexiglass generally performs better in this regard and can maintain its clarity over a longer period without significant yellowing. Additionally, while both are lighter than glass, Lexan is slightly heavier than Plexiglass.
Scratch Resistance
Scratch resistance is another important factor to consider. Plexiglass is more prone to scratching compared to Lexan, although some versions of Plexiglass have coatings to enhance this property. Lexan is generally more resistant to both impact and scratching, though it can scratch more easily unless treated with a hard coating.
Cost Considerations
In terms of cost, Plexiglass is generally less expensive than Lexan due to its inherent properties and widespread availability. Lexan's enhanced properties and higher quality make it more expensive, reflecting its superior performance in various applications.
Choosing Between Plexiglass and Lexan
The choice between Plexiglass and Lexan ultimately depends on the specific requirements of your project. If you need a clear, lightweight material for applications where impact resistance is not a primary concern, such as displays or signage, Plexiglass is the better choice. On the other hand, if you require high impact resistance, such as in safety glasses, riot shields, or protective barriers, Lexan is the preferred material.
Summary: Understand that while Plexiglass and Lexan share similarities, they have distinct properties that make them suitable for different applications. Consider the specific requirements of your project, including impact resistance, clarity, cost, and environmental factors, to make an informed decision.
Additional Insights
Acrolic Material: Acrylic, also known under other brand names like Plexiglass, is a versatile plastic material known for its clarity and resistance to shattering, making it a safer alternative to glass in many cases.
Plexiglass Brand Specifics: Plexiglass is a brand name for specific acrylic sheets originally produced by Rohm and Haas Company. However, it has become a generic term for clear acrylic sheets, often leading to confusion between the material itself and the branded product. It is important to clarify the specific requirements and availability of the product based on your project needs.
Overall, addressing the key differences between Plexiglass and Lexan, as well as their applications, provides a comprehensive guide for users seeking the ideal transparent plastic for their projects.