PMMA Acrylic: Optical-Grade Transparent Engineering Plastic
Published: 2026-06-08
PMMA transmits 92% of visible light — higher than glass (90%) — with excellent weatherability and surface hardness. The standard material for automotive taillights, display screens, and architectural glazing.
Technical Properties
| Density | 1.19 g/cm³ |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 70 MPa |
| Melting Point | N/A (Amorphous, Tg 105°C) |
| Shrinkage Rate | 0.4-0.7% |
| Flexural Modulus | 3.0 GPa |
| Hdt | 95 °C at 1.82 MPa |
| Continuous Service Temp | 80 °C |
Engineering Tool: Shrinkage & Cost Estimator
Calculate part weight, mold cavity dimensions accounting for shrinkage, and material cost — all locally in your browser.
Equivalents & Cross-References
| Equivalent / Alternate | Action |
|---|---|
| Rohm Plexiglas | |
| Mitsubishi Acrypet | |
| Altuglas |
Frequently Asked Questions
When should PMMA be used instead of polycarbonate for transparent parts?
PMMA wins on: optical clarity (92% vs 88%), UV/weathering resistance (no yellowing), surface hardness (scratch-resistant), and lower cost. PC wins on: impact resistance (250x glass vs 17x for PMMA) and heat resistance (HDT 135°C vs 95°C). For outdoor glazing, PMMA is standard. For safety glazing or high-temperature optics, PC.
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References & Industry Standards
- ASTM International. Standard Specifications for Engineering Plastics & Thermoplastics. astm.org
- UL Prospector. Plastics & Elastomers Material Database. ulprospector.com
- MatWeb. Material Property Data for Engineering Thermoplastics. matweb.com
- ISO 1043. Plastics — Symbols and Abbreviated Terms. iso.org