What is plexiglass?

Plexiglas is a strong, transparent plastic that is often used as an alternative to glass. The material is lightweight, shatterproof and easy to work with. As a result, Plexiglas is widely used in construction, industry, advertising and interior design.

The material allows plenty of light to pass through and has a sleek, clear appearance. As a result, it is used in applications where visibility and light are important, but where extra safety or ease of use is also required. In this blog, we explain what plexiglass exactly what it is, what properties it has, what you can use it for, and why it is often a smart alternative to traditional glass.

Plexiglas: what is it?

Plexiglas is the brand name for acrylic (PMMA: polymethyl methacrylate), a clear plastic that is often used as an alternative to glass. The material closely resembles glass, but is lighter, stronger and less fragile, making it safer to use.

When people search for What is plexiglass?, it is usually a transparent material that is more impact-resistant and easier to work with than glass. As a result, plexiglass is used for both small-scale applications and larger structures.

Key properties of plexiglass

Plexiglas has a number of properties that make it a popular choice in various sectors:

• High light transmittance (up to approximately 92%)
• Lighter than glass
• Stronger and more impact-resistant than traditional glass
• UV-resistant and colourfast
• Easy to saw, drill and rout
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use

Thanks to this combination, plexiglass is often chosen as a safe and practical alternative to glass.

What is plexiglass used for?

Plexiglas is used in many different sectors, such as construction, advertising, interior design, industry and private projects. Common applications include:

• Windows, skylights and screens in the construction industry
• Displays, signs and illuminated advertising
• Display cabinets, kitchen splashbacks and protective panels in interiors
• Machine guards and safety enclosures in industry
• Patio fencing, DIY projects and decorative applications

Thanks to its versatility, plexiglass is a popular choice for both professional and domestic applications.

Plexiglas and glass

A frequently asked question is what the difference is between plexiglass and glass. Plexiglass is lighter, stronger and safer to use. Whereas glass shatters into sharp shards when broken, plexiglass often remains intact or breaks in a less dangerous way. Glass is slightly harder and more scratch-resistant, but plexiglass is more flexible and easier to work with. As a result, plexiglass is often the better choice for projects where safety, weight and workability are important.

Plexiglas and polycarbonate

Plexiglas and polycarbonate are often compared. Both materials are transparent plastics, but they have different properties and uses.

Plexiglas is clear and retains its appearance, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. Polycarbonate is stronger and more resistant to impact and heavy loads. As a result, polycarbonate is more commonly used in places where extra strength is required. The choice therefore depends on the application: plexiglass for appearance and clarity, polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance.

Working with Plexiglas

Plexiglas is easy to work with and is therefore suitable for a wide range of applications. You can saw, drill, mill and glue the material, making it easy to cut to size for your project. This makes Plexiglas ideal for both small components and larger structures.

When working with the material, it is important to work calmly and with control. Use sharp, suitable tools and avoid working at excessive speeds, so that the material does not overheat or become damaged. This will keep the sheet smooth and prevent cracks or stress. When you work with plexiglass correctly, you will achieve a smooth and neat end result that is immediately suitable for both functional and visual applications.

Advantages of plexiglass

Plexiglas offers many advantages for both professional and domestic applications. It is lightweight, yet strong and impact-resistant, making it safer than traditional glass. Furthermore, the material is easy to work with and can be cut to size, making it suitable for a wide range of projects in construction, industry and interior design.

Plexiglass also scores highly in terms of appearance. The material has a modern, clear look and allows plenty of light to pass through, ensuring that spaces retain an open and airy feel. Furthermore, plexiglass has a long lifespan and is resistant to UV radiation, meaning it does not yellow easily or lose its quality.

Thanks to this combination of properties, plexiglass is extremely versatile. It is used in both functional applications, such as screens and protective panels, and in decorative applications where appearance and transparency are important.

Order Plexiglas from Kunststof Forte

At Kunststof Forte, you’ll find a wide range of plexiglass sheets for various applications. You can choose from a variety of thicknesses and sizes, depending on your project. Take a look at our range plexiglass sheets or opt for a bespoke solution via cutting plexiglass to size.

We offer fast delivery from stock, often within 2 to 3 working days. You can also count on personalised service and expert advice. Do you have any questions or would you like advice on your application? Please feel free to contact us via our website. We’d be happy to help you choose the right plexiglass for your project.