Acrylic (also known as Plexiglas, Lucite, Acrylite and Perspex) is renowned in the plastics world for its dazzling lustre and excellent scratch and impact resistance. It even has a greater load-bearing capacity than one of the toughest materials, polycarbonate. What you may not know is that this particular plastic comes in a variety of models designed to meet the specific needs of demanding homeowners and remodelers. If you have a specialised project in mind and are looking for the perfect material to bring your design to life, read on to learn about the various acrylic plastics that can help bring your design to life.
In this guide, we'll provide insights into selecting the right acrylic sheet based on color and opacity, touching on clear, translucent, mirror, coloured transparent acrylic,opaque, non-glare acrylic panels,matte, and Non-glare acrylic sheets.
Clear Acrylic Sheet
Clear sheet is the most common acrylic material, and its flexibility is largely due to the wide variety of sizes that can be ordered. Thicknesses range from 4 inches to 1/25 inches; widths from 3 feet to 10 feet; and lengths from 4 feet to 12.5 feet. Regardless of the details of your design, there is almost certainly some size of clear acrylic sheet that will meet those needs.
Mirror Acrylic
Mirror acrylic, also known as mirrored acrylic or acrylic mirror, is a type of acrylic material that has a reflective surface resembling that of a traditional glass mirror. It is created by applying a thin layer of reflective material, such as aluminum or silver, onto one side of a clear acrylic sheet. This reflective coating provides a mirror-like finish while retaining the lightweight and shatter-resistant properties of acrylic.
Mirror acrylic is commonly used in applications that require a lightweight and shatter-resistant alternative to glass mirrors. It is commonly used for interior decoration, retail displays, signage, theatre props and make-up mirrors. Mirrored acrylic is available in a variety of colours and finishes, including standard silver, gold, bronze and even tinted options, providing flexibility in design and aesthetic choices.
Coloured Transparent Acrylic
Coloured clear acrylic, also known as transparent acrylic, is a variation of acrylic material that retains the inherent transparency of traditional clear acrylic but is infused with pigments or dyes to impart specific colours. This type of acrylic retains the clarity and semi-transparent properties of acrylic while offering a range of vibrant colours and shades.
Coloured clear acrylic is manufactured in sheet or block form and is used in a wide range of applications where colour and transparency are required. It is commonly used for signage, displays, architectural elements, art installations and decorative accents. In addition, coloured clear acrylic can be machined, thermoformed or moulded into different shapes and sizes, offering flexibility and creative possibilities for design.
Non-glare acrylic panels
Perhaps you're looking for a material that doesn't require complete blackout - or maybe you're just looking to reduce glare in your product or valuables display cases. If so, you'll appreciate how special matte non-glare acrylic sheets can provide excellent protection for your items, while still giving you an unobstructed view of what you're displaying or selling.
Matte acrylic or frosted acrylic
Matte acrylic and frosted acrylic sheets are acrylic materials that have been specially treated or processed to produce a non-reflective, diffused surface effect. This finish gives acrylic a soft, satin-like appearance and texture, rather than the glossy effect usually associated with standard acrylic.
Matte acrylic sheet is made in sheets or blocks and is often used for applications that require a more subtle or soft aesthetic. The frosted surface diffuses light and reduces glare and reflections, making it ideal for applications such as privacy screens, partitions, decorative panels and lighting fixtures.
These acrylic sheets are available in a variety of thicknesses, colours and clarity to meet different design requirements. They can also be easily cut, shaped and fabricated using commonly used tools and techniques, allowing flexibility in design and customisation.
Frosted acrylic panels offer the same durability, weather resistance and ease of processing as standard acrylic, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. Its soft, diffused look adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any project.
Non-glare acrylic sheets
Non-glare acrylic sheets are available in a variety of thicknesses, sizes and finishes to meet different needs and preferences. They offer the same durability, weather resistance and ease of fabrication as standard acrylic for both indoor and outdoor use. In addition, they can be easily cut, shaped and fabricated using commonly used tools and techniques, providing flexibility for design and customisation.
Overall, non-glare acrylic panels provide an effective solution for minimising reflections and increasing visibility in a wide range of applications, thus enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Still not sure? Ask the pros at Welldon New Material
Explore the extensive acrylic selection at Welldon New Material to discover the ideal match for your upcoming project. Please contact us if you require guidance in selecting the appropriate acrylic or if you are unable to locate your desired option. We have a huge array of custom options available, and our expert staff is standing by to help you find what you're looking for.