What Is an Acrylic Sheet?

Windows coated with acrylic sheets provide better optical clarity.

An acrylic sheet is a clear coat of plastic that looks like glass, but is far superior in strength and durability. Acrylic sheets come in a variety of colors, shapes and patterns and are used to coat, laminate or glaze flat surfaces. They are available in textured patterns and mirrored styles and are abrasion-resistant. They are commonly referred to by their brand names, which are Acrylite, Plexiglas, Lucite and Perspex.

Acrylite

Acrylite is a brand of acrylic that is transparent and weather resistant. Acrylite sheets are designed to harden any surface that they coat. Under the Acrylite brand, you will find a variety of acrylic sheets, including anti-reflective, multi-color and bullet-resistant designs. You can apply Acrylite sheets to car windows, pictures, furniture, signs and light fixtures. Acrylite acrylic sheets are sold online and are available through distributors in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Plexiglas

Plexiglas is also a brand of acrylic that is transparent and weather resistant. It is commonly misspelled as Plexiglass and is often sold under that name. It was first used during World War II on aircraft canopies and is now used in the development of airplanes, automobiles and countless consumer goods. Plexiglas is available in mirrored, textured, tinted and frosted styles and can be cut to the shape and size of your choice.

Lucite

Lucite is an acrylic sheet brand known for its superior optical and weather-resistant properties. It also has high impact resistance, which keeps it clear of scratches, cracks and any defect that will affect its appearance. Lucite is a thick yet lightweight acrylic sheet with a surface that is easy to clean. These acrylic sheets have a polysilicate resin, which is a silicone structure found in rocks and minerals. This resin is what gives Lucite its strength and durability.

Perspex

Perspex acrylic sheets are known for the vibrant colors and effects that they give off when displayed. Perspex is also made to withstand extreme weather conditions and is generally used for outdoor displays. Popular manufacturers that use Perspex acrylic sheets for their display signs are McDonald's, American Express, Shell and Nissan. Perspex is a reliable brand of acrylic sheets that popular companies around the world use to advertise their brand.

References

• Evonik Industries
• Lucite International: Lucite Sheet & Composites
• Altuglas International: Plexiglas
• K-Mac Plastics: Lucite Cast Acrylic Sheet
• Freckleface.com: Acrylic Sheet

Resources

• TAP Plastics: Acrylic Sheets Clear
• Rideout Plastics