Acrylic

Acrylic – A Comparison with Glass

Acrylic is often chosen as a replacement over glass in several industries for many reasons. Although they are both transparent, but they could be anymore similar. The differences between glass and acrylic includes:

Acrylic Is Less Dense

Acrylic is only less than half the density of a commercial glass material. That also constitutes to the lighter weight bear by acrylic. With all that in mind, acrylic is easier in assembly and transportation, consequently a cheaper alternative.

Acrylic Is Stronger

Acrylic has higher impact to resistance than glass and will not shatter upon breakage. In order to achieve such stunts, glass has to go through processes to make sure its tempered. The process is costly in the first place, and not ideal for many industries.

Acrylic Allows More Light To Go Through Than Glass

Acrylic is reported to transmit 92% of visible light through the material. A conventional piece of glass would only allow 80 – 90%. This is especially relevant to retail showcases, in highlighting their flagship offerings.

Resistance Against Chemicals

Acrylic is a famous pick among abrasive and demanding environments. For example, chlorine has zero effect over acrylic whereas it may affect materials like glass and plastics.

A Marvelous Heat Insulator.

The heat insulating property is higher for acrylic than glass. However, they are now a fair match as most glass are treated with double glaze, which insulates equally as well. However this feat can only be achieved if one doesn’t mind the extra thickness that comes with the glass.

All in all acrylic is a friendlier alternative for wide variety of industries. While there are benefits from both materials, one can only agree that acrylic has surpassed glass in versatility in recent years.