Scratch-resistant: PLEXIGLAS® is among the thermoplastics with the highest surface hardness
Even the smallest scratch is annoying and impairs the overall visual appearance – especially on transparent and high-gloss surfaces. Cast and extruded acrylic glass is among the thermoplastics with the highest surface hardness, as well as offering excellent scratch resistance. This is confirmed by the pencil hardness test, among others.
The pencil hardness test
This test involves a pencil being clamped into a device at a 45-degree angle to the surface to be tested, and then being slid across the surface of the test sample. The first pencil hardness (starting with the highest hardness) whose tip does not leave a noticeable scratch is considered the characteristic physical variable. For comparison, polycarbonate has a pencil hardness rating of HB, while PLEXIGLAS® has a 5H hardness rating, which is six degrees higher.
For special cases: PLEXIGLAS® Optical
Because the scratch resistance of PLEXIGLAS® makes it superior to many other plastics, it is ideally suited for use in furniture, exhibition booth construction, shopfitting and photo glazing.
PLEXIGLAS® Optical HC has a scratch-resistant coating and is particularly well suited for surfaces which are subject to intense stress. This product is available with a high-gloss surface or as PLEXIGLAS® Optical HCM with a matte surface that reduces reflections. The scratch-resistant surface treatment provides excellent resistance against abrasion and chemicals. The extruded sheets also feature excellent optical properties. The sheet coated on one side is highly recommended for demanding applications which involve heavy use and frequent cleaning.
PLEXIGLAS® Optical also provides optimum protection for applications with heavy public traffic. The material’s surface appearance is preserved due to the coating. Thanks to these properties, PLEXIGLAS® Optical is especially well suited for:
- Furniture, exhibition booth construction and shopfitting
- Large-scale wall claddings
- Marker boards
- Photo glazing
- Museum fittings and display case construction
- Electronic displays
- Aircraft industry
- Industrial glazing
- Signage
