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
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
New project and cultural district described in detail.
The nature of EPCs, crticism and inaccuracies.
History, issues and redesign.
From waste recycling to energy performance the hierchy.
An introduction to WERCS and WEEE responsibilities
Dealing with 2 million tonnes of waste equipment a year.
Global BACS Market: analytics and optimisation
A BSRIA glance at building automation and control systems.
What it is and how to use it.
Types of insulating plaster by binder and insulant.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.