Misconceptions of Acrylic Plastic

Acrylic plastic is a versatile material that is used in many different ways throughout the world. There are many misconceptions about acrylic plastic, and within this blog, we are going to debunk some of the most common misconceptions about acrylic plastic.

Acrylic Plastic Will Turn Yellow Over Time 

Although it is true that acrylic will turn yellow over time, the length of time is often a misconception. Cheap acrylic imports can yellow very quickly, but with our branded acrylic, you have a 10-30-year guarantee against yellowing. Additionally, acrylic that has UV protection along with proper maintenance should last 10 years or more.  

Acrylic Plastic Alternatives Are More Environmentally Friendly

There is a common misconception among people that acrylic plastic is one of the worst materials for the environment. In fact, other popular materials have their own negatives, such as glass being a heavier material and therefore requiring more energy to travel increasing carbon emissions. Acrylic can be recycled without degrading the material, which means that recycling it does not require the input of new materials. All of our acrylic factory waste and offcuts and recycled to make new sheets. We also stock clear recycled acrylic. 

Acrylic Plastic Is the Same as Glass

It is true that acrylic can imitate the transparency and clarity of glass, however,  it is a completely unrelated material. Some comparisons between acrylic and glass are:

• Acrylic is a lighter and stronger material
• Unlike glass, acrylic is shatter-resistant and flexible.
• Acrylic tends to be more transparent than glass.
• Acrylic is cheaper than glass.
• If you are installing acrylic horizontally with no supports, it can bow over time whereas glass has less flex. 

Acrylic Plastic Is Difficult to Work With

Another common misconception is that acrylic is difficult to work with. In fact, acrylic plastic is generally considered to be an easy material to work with as it can be cut, drilled, heat bent, and bonded with a variety of tools. Other factors of acrylic that make it an easy material to work with are:

• Acrylic is a softer material than glass and, therefore, easier to work with.
• Acrylic can also be bonded with different adhesives making it an easy material to construct into larger shapes
• Acrylic can be heated and moulded allowing it to be created into more complex designs
• It is also lightweight, which makes it easier to handle in certain projects. 

Acrylic Plastic Is Scratch-Proof

Although acrylic isn’t scratch-proof, it has a high scratch resistance compared to other plastics. The benefit of acrylic is that a lot of scratches can be buffed out. Please see our how-to remove scratches from plastic guide.

Acrylic Plastic Is Not Suitable for Outdoor Use

Acrylic is actually suitable for indoor and outdoor use and boasts great weatherproof properties, unlike other general-purpose plastics. Acrylic can endure high levels of UV light and temperature shifts without showing signs of wear. The most common material today for greenhouse windows is actually acrylic. 

Acrylic plastic is a valuable material that can be used in a range of applications. We hope that debunking some of these common misconceptions can help you to make more informed decisions. Why not contact us today to discuss everything acrylic?