The Importance of Acrylic Sheets

Aug. 15, 2012 - PRLog -- Plastic acrylics are used in so many applications, in so many areas of life; it's hard to imagine a world without them. These sheets are a remarkable invention as they are extremely durable and can be used in many unique products.

It all really started in 1843 when an acrylic acid preparation was reported. Following that, Dr. Otto Rohm published the results of his research with acrylic resinoids in 1901. His thesis, "On the Polymerization Products of Acrylic Acid" explained how the polymers obtained in his research had simultaneous properties of a tough, flexible glass and a rigid plastic.
Acrylic resins started being used in 1931 for industrial coatings and laminated glass binders. The better known derivative of methacrylic acid, polymethyl methacrylate, was not introduced until 1936 as a transparent sheet and in 1937 as a molding powder. This marked the start of the acrylic era and the Plexiglas revolution.
In World War II, acrylic sheet played an important role as a bullet resistant glazing in warplanes because it was light, strong and could be easily formed to fit into the structural designs of aircraft. At that time, due to acrylic manufacturing, this type of plastic started being used in homes and factories too for safety glazing, electrical and chemical applications, windscreens and many other uses.
If acrylic had never been developed, would we be left with heavy, expensive objects instead of the relatively light and inexpensive materials we are familiar with today? What would brochure holders, racks, counter displays, perspex display cases, donation / suggestion boxes and small point of sale displays be made from?
For More Information visit:
http://www.displaydevelopments.co.uk/