PMMA (Acrylic) vs PC (Polycarbonate): Both transparent — PMMA optically superior, PC far tougher
PMMA (Acrylic) vs PC (Polycarbonate)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
PMMA (Acrylic)
Polymethylmethacrylate — the optical-quality plastic. 92% light transmission (better than glass). Excellent weathering resistance and UV stability. Hard but brittle (no yielding — fractures). Trade names include Plexiglas (Röhm/Evonik), Perspex (Lucite), Acrylite (Mitsubishi). Used for signs, displays, light guides, automotive tail lamps, aquariums, skylights, and protective shields.
PC (Polycarbonate)
Polycarbonate — the transparent high-impact engineering plastic. Amorphous with outstanding impact strength (virtually unbreakable at room temp), optical clarity (~90% light transmission), and good heat resistance (Tg 145-150°C). Trade names include Lexan (SABIC), Makrolon (Covestro). Used for safety glazing, machine guards, automotive headlamp lenses, CDs/DVDs, riot shields, and electronic housings.
| PMMA (Acrylic) | PC (Polycarbonate) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 10350 | ISO 10350 |
Mechanical properties
| Property | PMMA (Acrylic) | PC (Polycarbonate) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 50–75 | 55–75 | MPa |
| elongation | 2–6 | 80–120 | % |
| e_modulus | 2.7–3.2 | 2.2–2.4 | GPa |
Compatibility Assessment
PMMA has better optical clarity (92 vs 89% transmission), scratch resistance, and UV stability. PC has 10-30x higher impact strength (virtually unbreakable). PMMA shatters on impact. Choose PMMA for displays/signs/aquariums; PC for safety glazing/machine guards/helmets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PMMA (Acrylic) the same as PC (Polycarbonate)?
PMMA (Acrylic) and PC (Polycarbonate) have a 45% composition overlap. Both transparent — PMMA optically superior, PC far tougher
Can I replace PMMA (Acrylic) with PC (Polycarbonate)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (45% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PMMA (Acrylic) and PC (Polycarbonate)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. PMMA (Acrylic) is a Polymers grade, while PC (Polycarbonate) is a Polymers grade.
Related Comparisons
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.