Perspex, a type of acrylic plastic, starts as a liquid then is transformed into a strong plastic. Acrylic is a great substitute for glass because of its flexibility, durability and sustainability. Acrylic has been used in many different applications over the years. Acrylic sheets were originally used to make windows for cars and submarines, but they can now be used in many other areas, including engineering, construction and photography. It is a durable plastic that can be used in a variety of ways and is a cost-effective alternative to glass.
Here are some pros and cons to using large acrylic sheets.
Acrylic sheets have many benefits
UV-resistant:
Acrylic is versatile and can be easily molded into any shape. This makes it ideal for making many products. Acrylic is ideal for outdoor use as it can withstand heat up to 160°C.
Reusable
Acrylic crockery is preferred by many restaurants because it is shatterproof, durable, and easy to clean.
Eco-friendly
Acrylic (i.e. Perspex is easily re-usable because it’s synthetic. It is an eco-friendly option because of the numerous ways that acrylic sheets can be made into other items (plates and acrylic table tops or shelves).
A wide range of colors available
Acrylic sheets come in a wide range of colors and designs. You can either choose clear acrylic sheets or coloured sheets depending on the purpose of the material. These sheets come in a variety of styles including mirror acrylic, fluorescent acrylic, and frosted acrylic.
Dishwasher safe
Perspex sheets have been used to make dishes and glasses that can withstand the heat of commercially produced dishwashers.
Cost-effective
Glass look acrylic, synthetically produced, is much cheaper to make and to purchase.
Acrylic sheets: Cons
Low quality
Perspex sheets can melt when exposed to flames or at high temperatures. Acrylic plastic melts at 160 degrees C. They cannot withstand extreme temperatures. Acrylic plastic is strong and durable but can be scratched easily.
Toxicity
Acrylic products can produce toxic fumes during manufacturing. Protective equipment and clothing are provided to anyone who is involved in the production of acrylic sheets. If you do not take proper precautions, the acrylic sheet could explode during polymerization.
Recycle difficulties
Acrylic can be recycled, but it isn’t biodegradable so it isn’t as simple as just throwing it in the recycle bin or going to a bottle bank. Acrylic can be re-used (e.g. Perspex can be cut into smaller pieces and formed into other products by using it.
