Plexiglas UF-4
Description
(Plexiglas) A registered trademark for a type of UV filtering acrylic sheeting produced by Arkema. Plexiglas® UF-4 is clear and blocks about 90% of the UV radiation. Transmission starts at 385nm.UF-4 typically has better visible light transmission and slightly better edge color than UF-3 (create link). It is typically used as a cover for fluorescent lights.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Plexiglas® G [Arkema]; UF-4 Plexiglas; Plexiglas® UF-3 [Arkema]; Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); UV filtering acrylic sheeting
Personal Risks
Grinding, sanding, and/or sawing can cause dust which may result in respiratory hazard. Also, the product may release fumes and/or vapor of variable composition, depending on processing time and temperature.
Arkema: SDS
Applications
Plexiglas® is used for a variety of exhibit related applications. Plexiglas® G UF-4 is used for cover of fluorescent lights, vitrines, glazing, and framing.
Additional Information
Plexiglas: Website
Collection Risks
Oddy Test results posted on AIC Wiki Materials Database:
Plexiglas G (no UV filtering) tested in 2019.
A variety of saws can be used to cut Plexiglas®: circular, band, scroll, saber, hole, and veneer saws. Routers can also be used on Plexiglas®. Plexiglas® can also be turned on a lathe to give a semi-matte surface. When drilling, best results are obtained when using a modified standard twist drill. Specially ground drills for Plexiglas® acrylic sheet are available.[1]
After cutting Plexiglas® acrylic sheeting it is often desirable to scrape the edges to remove nicks or burrs and improve the appearance.[2]
Plexiglas® can be joined using methylene chloride (solvent-dissolving acrylic), acetoxy cure silicone sealants, or an epoxy; these joints are strong enough for loadbearing for medium to heavy weights, but bending acrylic sheeting is stronger. Plexiglas® acrylic sheeting is a thermoplastic and can be shaped once pre-heated between 325°F and 350°F, but the sheets can be cold formed as well by springing the material into a curved channel support.[3]
Forms and Sizes
Information from the Arkema Plexiglas® G UF-3, Plexiglas® G UF-4 Brochure: Sheet sizes: 48” x 96”, 60” x 96”, and 72” x 96”. Thickness: 0.118, 0.177, 0.236, 0.354, and 0.472”.
Additional Information
Arkema Plexiglas® Website
Sources Checked for Data in Record
- Marjorie Shelley, The Care and Handling of Art Objects, The Metropolitan Museum, New York, 1987
- Book and Paper Group, Paper Conservation Catalog, AIC, 1984, 1989