92% transparent. Polishes to optical grade.

Choose PMMA when: optical clarity is priority, cost matters, surface scratch resistance is needed, part is not impact-critical. Choose PC when: impact resistance is required, high-temperature service needed, part could be struck or dropped. Rule of thumb: PMMA for "display this," PC for "protect this." PMMA is roughly half the cost of PC per kilogram.

Standard acrylic is brittle — impact strength 15 J/m notched Izod (vs polycarbonate 850 J/m). Sharp impacts or over-tightened fasteners can crack acrylic. For applications where impact matters, specify impact-modified PMMA (10× standard impact) or switch to polycarbonate. Avoid sharp internal corners (use fillets R ≥ 1 mm) and avoid tight fastener fits (use oversized holes with shoulder washers).

Yes — acrylic thermoforms well at 160–180 °C. CNC machined parts can be line-heated and bent to create 3D shapes. For complex curves, vacuum forming or press forming from flat sheet. Acrylic holds its formed shape indefinitely if fully cooled below Tg (105 °C).

FDA-compliant PMMA grades exist for food contact per 21 CFR 177.1010. Standard cast or extruded acrylic is usually not food-safe by default. For food applications (cake displays, food preparation tools, beverage dispensers), specify FDA-grade acrylic explicitly. USP Class VI grades for medical fluid contact.

Standard acrylic yellows only slightly over decades — far less than polycarbonate or ABS. UV-stabilized PMMA (with UV absorber package) is rated for 30+ years outdoor without visible yellowing. For outdoor signage, skylights, and architectural glazing, specify UV-stabilized grade.