PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate), is a polymer compound with excellent optical properties, mechanical properties, electrical properties and chemical stability.
It has a wide range of applications in various fields, such as construction, automotive, electronics, medical, aviation and so on. In this paper, we will introduce PMMA in detail from the definition, properties, synthesis methods, application areas and so on.
Definition of PMMA
PMMA, full name of polymethyl methacrylate, is a polymer compound made from methyl methacrylate monomer through polymerization reaction. It belongs to acrylic plastics, which are colorless, transparent, lightweight, and not fragile. The molecular chain of PMMA is formed by methyl methacrylate monomer through free radical polymerization or ionic polymerization, and the molecular backbone contains ester groups and methyl groups.
The nature of PMMA
Optical properties
PMMA has excellent optical properties, extremely high transparency, and light transmittance up to 92%, which is known as “plastic crystal”. It has a low refractive index of about 1.49, which makes its products have excellent visual effects. In addition, PMMA has excellent UV resistance and can maintain stable transparency in sunlight for a long time.
Mechanical properties
PMMA has high impact strength, about 16 times that of ordinary glass, and can effectively resist external impact. It also has good abrasion and weather resistance, and can maintain stable performance in various environments. However, PMMA has a lower hardness and is easily scratched.
Electrical properties
PMMA has good insulation properties, low dielectric constant, about 2.6-3.0, and small dielectric loss. In addition, it has certain arc resistance.
Chemical stability
PMMA has excellent chemical stability and good resistance to most organic solvents and acid-base solutions. However, it is easily dissolved by certain organic solvents such as acetone, chloroform, etc.
Application areas of PMMA
Architectural field
PMMA is mainly used in the construction field to make various doors and windows, partitions, lenses, etc. Due to its high light transmittance and impact strength, Acrylic products can provide sufficient lighting and a sense of security for the interior. In addition, Acrylic can also be used to make various decorative panels and moldings to add beauty and fashion to the interior.
Automotive
PMMA is mainly used in the automotive field to make various lamps, mirrors, windshields, etc. Due to its high light transmittance and abrasion resistance, Acrylic products can provide clear vision and safety for drivers. In addition, Acrylic can also be used to make various interior and decorative parts to improve the comfort and aesthetics of automobiles.
Electronics
PMMA is mainly used in the electronics field to make various displays, touch screens, light guide plates, etc. Due to its high light transmittance and excellent electrical properties, Acrylic products can provide clear display effect and stable performance for electronic products. In addition, Acrylic can also be used to make packaging materials and insulating materials for various electronic components.
Medical field
PMMA is mainly used in the medical field to make various artificial joints, teeth, orthopedic implants, etc. Due to its high biocompatibility and abrasion resistance, Acrylic products can provide patients with a comfortable use experience and a long service life. In addition, Acrylic can also be used to make parts and housing materials for various medical devices.
Aviation field
acrylic is mainly used in the aviation field to make various aircraft portholes, cockpit canopies, etc. Due to their high light transmittance and impact strength, acrylic products can provide clear vision and safety for pilots. In addition, PMMA can be used to make a variety of aerospace components and composite materials.
What color does acrylic have？
The color of acrylic is very rich, and it can be divided into transparent acrylic, color acrylic, light guide acrylic, etc. Color acrylic comes in various colors such as red, yellow, blue, and green, and can be applied to household items such as decorative art, lamps, and dining tables.
What are the acrylic processing techniques?
Cutting
Using laser or mechanical cutting, the acrylic sheet is cut into the desired shape and size as needed.
Engraving
According to the shape requirements of acrylic products, the acrylic sheet is preliminarily engraved and carved into graphics of different shapes.
Polishing
Polishing the cut and engraved acrylic sheet to improve the surface finish and transparency.
Hot bending
After the acrylic sheet is heated to a certain temperature by a hot bending machine, it is bent to create the desired shape.
Perforation
According to the needs of acrylic products, the acrylic sheet is perforated.
Silk screen printing
If you need to print patterns or words on acrylic products, you can use silk screen printing technology.
If you have a product project about acrylic, contact MACHCNCMASTER, our professional operators and sophisticated equipment to ensure processing quality and production efficiency. In addition, depending on the specific needs of the customer, it may also involve services such as product design, prototyping, and small batch production.
