Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA, PMMA) - is a linear polymer of methyl methacrylate.
The chemical formula of PMMA can be represented as (-CH2-C (CH3) -) n COOCH3.
PMMA prepared free radical polymerization of a monomer (methyl methacrylate), mainly in the block and the slurry, at least in emulsion and solution. Release, mainly in the form of sheets and granular materials. The main advantages of PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate): exceptional transparency (light transmittance Plexiglas up to 92% of visible light, which is more than any other polymeric material), good physical, mechanical and electrical properties atmoferostoykost, resistance to dilute acids and alkalis, water, alcohols, fats and mineral oils; non-toxic; It softens at a temperature of 120C.
PMMA is processed by injection molding, extrusion, vacuum blow molding, stamping; it can be processed mechanically glued and welded.
In the combustion of PMMA does not emit any toxic gases. The ignition temperature of 260 ° C.
PMMA is dissolved in chlorinated hydrocarbons (dichloroethane, chloroform), aldehydes, ketones and esters. On Plexiglas (polymethyl methacrylate) also affect alcohols: methyl, butyl, ethyl, propyl. For short exposure to 10% ethanol is no interaction with Plexiglas. PMMA has a high frost resistance, resistance to moisture. The density Plexiglas is 1.19 g / cm3, which is almost 2.5 times lighter than ordinary glass and 17% lighter than rigid PVC. Impact strength plexiglass 5 times greater than that of ordinary glass. Operating temperature range for the Plexiglas is from - 40 ° C to + 80 ° C.
PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) has good resistance to aging.