Glazing comparison
- Record in progress***
Description
Any optically transparent thermoplastic sheet that may be used as a replacement for window glass. Polymer types include acrylics, polycarbonates, and polyesters.
| Polymer | Advantages | Applications | Commercial brands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic (PMMA) | Optically clear, lightweight, high resistance to UV light and weathering can be obtained in many sizes and shapes, forming does not affect clarity; shatter resistant | Display cases, light fixtures, transparent shelves for lightweight materials, indoor and outdoor signage | Optix, Plexiglas, Acrylite |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | High strength and stiffness (more than 200 times stronger than glass); lighter than glass; easy to machine, impact resistant, may be exposed to high heat | Bullet proof windows and doors, windshields and protective barriers, eyewear, visors in sporting gear, cell phones, signage; furniture; UV grades available | Lexan; Tuffak (formerly Makrolon); Palsun |
| Polyethylene Terephphthalate (PET) | General purpose; inexpensive; high strength; resistant to chemicals | Water bottles, Fibers, films | Vivak, Dartex |
| Amorphous Copolyester (PETG) | Wide range of properties with excellent clarity; high strength; resistant to chemicals and heat. | Often used as a substitute for PC or PMMA | |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Water-clear clarity; high impact strength ; excellent chemical resistance; fire resistant | Safety glazing; windows; packaging, bags, connectors, valves; UV grades available | |
| Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) | Low viscosity elastomer with excellent optical clarity and durability; lightweight; easy to process, heat and UV resistant | Lighting, electronics | |
| Cyclic Olefin Copolymers (COC) | Transparent thrermoplastic with good mechanical and moisture barrier properties; high stiffness and strength |