Polycarbonate had earned the tag because most suitable material for usage in the automotive industry. However, in recent years, Polymethyl Methacrylate, the PMMA polymer or commonly known acrylic plastic, has efficiently risen on the growing demands of the automotive industry in replacing polycarbonate for the most important use within the, namely, automotive glazing.
Long established for usage in a variety of vehicle applications including decorative trim, ambient lighting and door entry strips, automotive glazing is one of those fields that supply the best growth risk of PMMA.
Related key options that come with acrylic plastic which render it ideal for the entire process of automotive glazing are discussed below.
Light weight
To create a comparison on a erogenous level, PMMA is half the load and much more transparent than glass, thereby providing really clear visibility even just in true of fluctuating and unstable temperatures. Owing to its molecular structure, thermoformed polymethyl methacrylate are used almost just for car window glazing where all the necessary requirements for light-weight materials which are safe, very easy to process and perform in all weathers are met.
On top of Scratch Resistance
Another critical dependence on glazing is scratch resistance. Standard PMMA already has got the highest surface hardness of thermoplastics even if uncoated. However, for automotive glazing, you’ll find stringent conditions to become fulfilled to meet the optimal state of scratch resistance. The application of a coating thus remains mandatory. Considering that PMMA is intrinsically UV and also weathering-resistant, a single-step coating is effective. As opposed, thermoplastics which may have low effectiveness against weathering need a two-step coating system. This results in relatively expense for coating.
New design possibilities
PMMA glazing is 40 to 50 percent lighter than conventional glass, which piques a person’s eye of automobile manufacturers. Using the advantages being immediately obvious, PMMA has become known as the proper fit for automotive glazing. Weight savings apart, the transparency of acrylic plastic in addition to its quite high weathering resistance, pleasant acoustic properties, and exceptional form ability allow freedom enabling entirely new design possibilities.
Less negative feelings birefringence
PMMA exhibits little or no stress birefringence this also works as a major benefit over other thermoplastics including polycarbonate, which was primarily employed for glazing during the past. In comparison with traditional materials including polycarbonate, moulded PMMA, comes with a distinct potential for functional integration – reducing recess depth and assembly costs.
Environment-friendly
The new goal in the automotive industry is to build up clean low fuel consumption vehicles. In the awareness and the dependence on eco-friendly initiatives in today’s scheme of things, PMMA works as a perfect substitute for glass in the automotive glazing segment. As vehicle manufacturers push the boundaries of design, also is automotive glazing evolving.
SUMIPEX® PMMA polymer offers characteristics that satisfy the latest challenges in the transportation sector. It’s a monumental challenge for auto makers that are looking to adjust to recent environmental requirements and therefore are considering alternatives that reduce greenhouse gas and save fuel. It does not take perfect partner with this movement because it can make cars lighter.
Like a leading manufacturer of SUMIPEX® PMMA polymer, Sumitomo Chemical is pleased to help you understand its properties and just how it ideal to automotive glazing.
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