Polymethyl methacrylate
IUPAC: poly(methyl 2-methylpropenoate)
| Formula / Notation | (C5H8O2)n |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 9011-14-7 |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Melting Point | ~160 °C (Tg: 105–115 °C) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes ~170 °C |
| Density | 1.17–1.20 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | clear glass-like solid |
| Also Known As | PMMA; acrylic glass; Plexiglas; Perspex; Lucite; acrylic |
| Category | Polymers & Plastics |
What is Polymethyl methacrylate?
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), commonly known as acrylic glass or by trade names such as Plexiglas and Perspex, is a transparent thermoplastic produced by radical polymerisation of methyl methacrylate. It transmits about 92% of visible light, more than any other plastic, and has only half the weight of glass. PMMA is less impact-resistant than polycarbonate but offers superior UV resistance and optical clarity, and does not contain BPA.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: poly(methyl 2-methylpropenoate)
Other Names / Synonyms: PMMA; acrylic glass; Plexiglas; Perspex; Lucite; acrylic
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | ~160 °C (Tg: 105–115 °C) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes ~170 °C |
| Density | 1.17–1.20 g/cm³ |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | clear glass-like solid |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), commonly known as acrylic glass or by trade names such as Plexiglas and Perspex, is a transparent thermoplastic produced by radical polymerisation of methyl methacrylate. It transmits about 92% of visible light, more than any other plastic, and has only half the weight of glass. PMMA is less impact-resistant than polycarbonate but offers superior UV resistance and optical clarity, and does not contain BPA.
Optical lenses and windows. Aquarium tanks and swimming pool windows. Aircraft canopies and windshields. LED light guides. Bone cement in orthopaedic surgery. Artistic and display applications. Signage.
Low toxicity in solid form. Releases methyl methacrylate monomer and CO during combustion. Methyl methacrylate is a respiratory sensitiser. Susceptible to crazing with certain solvents. Consult SDS before processing.
The formula or notation for Polymethyl methacrylate is: (C5H8O2)n