Acrylics in construction
The term ‘acrylic’ refers to chemicals that contain the acryloyl group, derived from acrylic acid, such as polyacrylonitrile and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA).
Acrylics generally have good optical clarity, scratch resistance, dimensional stability and rigidity. They do not deteriorate in sunlight and they have good adhesion, are thermoplastic, easy to form and easy to cut. However, they are combustible, are not flexible, suffer from stress cracking and are not resistant to solvents.
Acrylics have a very wide range of uses in the construction industry:
- Transparent or translucent sheeting such as acrylic glass (‘Plexiglass’ or ‘Perspex’).
- Opaque cladding and panel materials.
- Paints.
- Resins, sealants, adhesives and adhesive tapes
- Flashing materials.
- Concretes, mortars, renders and asphalt.
- Architectural fabrics.
- Baths, shower trays and sinks.
- Coatings for metals, concrete and masonry.
- Flooring and carpets.
- Worktops.
- Signage.
- Light fixtures.
- LCD screens.
- Furniture.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Adhesives.
- Cladding.
- Composites.
- ETFE.
- Expanded polystyrene.
- Fabric structures.
- Glass reinforced plastic GRP.
- India looks at using plastic instead of sand.
- Nylon.
- Paint.
- Plexiglass.
- Polycarbonate.
- Polyethylene.
- Polymers.
- Polyvinyl chloride.
- Rubber.
- Thermoplastic materials in buildings.
- Transparent insulation materials.
Featured articles and news
Key takeaways from the BSRIA Briefing 2024
Not just waiting for Net Zero, but driving it.
The ISO answer to what is a digital twin
Talking about digital twins in a more consistent manner.
Top tips and risks to look out for.
New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware
Published by GAI and DHF.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Pertinent technical issues, retrofit measures and the roles involved.
New alliance will tackle skills shortage in greater Manchester
The pioneering Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliance.
Drone data at the edge: three steps to better AI insights
Offering greater accuracy and quicker access to insights.
From fit-out to higher-risk buildings.
Heritage conservation in Calgary
The triple bottom line.
College of West Anglia apprentice wins SkillELECTRIC gold.
Scottish government launch delivery plan
To strengthen planning and tackle the housing emergency.
How people react in ways which tend to restore their comfort.
Comfort is a crucial missing piece of the puzzle.
ECA launches Recharging Electrical Skills Charter in Wales
Best solutions for the industry and electrical skills in Wales.
New homebuilding skills hub launch and industry response
Working with CITB and NHBC to launch fast track training.