Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a highly transparent thermoplastic. Starting at 100 °C (210 °F), PMMA possesses plastic ductility which is thermally reversible. It is well suitable for machining, can easily be cut or engraved using CO2 lasers, and is more scratch resistant than other thermoplastic. Adhesive or welded connections are possible. It transmits light better than mineral glass, is easy to dye and resistant to weathering and ageing.

The surface energy of PMMA is about 46 mN/m. This is usually too low for further processing, as varnishes, printing inks or adhesives only adhere to a limited extent. The surface energy can be increased to approx. 60 mN/m by surface treatment with cold atmospheric pressure plasma.

• Automotive industry: Indicator and rear light glass, reflectors, light conductors, casing elements
• Building industry: glazing, sanitary and furnishing components
• Light technology and optics
• Aircraft construction: panes, hoods, headlight covers
• Machinery protection: protective covers and safety door
• Optometry: hard intraocular lenses, spectacle glasses
• Dental medicine: Partial dentures, temporaries, occlusal splints