Plexiglass
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Plexiglass is a plastic sheet made from methyl methacrylate. Technically referred to as poly(methyl methacrylate) or PMMA, the material is frequently referred to as acrylic or acrylic glass. It also goes by brand names such as Plexiglas, Lucite and Perspex.
As a type of acrylic, plexiglass has good optical clarity, scratch resistance and dimensional stability. It does not deteriorate in sunlight, has good adhesion, is thermoplastic, easy to form and easy to cut.
[edit] History
The development of plexiglass occurred in multiple locations by numerous researchers in the late 1920s and early 1930s.
During the Second World War, plexiglass was used as a form of facial protection to shield pilots from flying shards of glass and other debris. Development of the material continued after the war, and it was used in the prefabricated Futuro houses introduced in the 1960s.
[edit] COVID-19 and plexiglass
In 2020, global demand for plexiglass increased when it was commonly used as to protect people returning to construction sites, shops, restaurants, workplaces and other public places after the lockdown period was lifted. It was adopted in retail establishments as a method of protecting workers and customers during the payment process. Plexiglass partitions in the workplace have also been installed to create barriers between employees as they return to the offices. In restaurants, plexiglass bubbles allow customers to remain somewhat protected while dining out.
The material is commonly used in face shields which are now being worn not only by medical professionals, but also by those in construction, retail and the beauty professions.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.