Highlight the advantages of PLEXIGLAS® and LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET

Two premium materials – different strengths: PLEXIGLAS® (PMMA) stands for optical brilliance and UV resistance, LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET (PC) for extreme impact strength and safety. This page provides advantages, applications, comparison data, selection guidance, and care and processing tips – compact and practical.

PLEXIGLAS® – strengths and characteristics

Exceptional transparency and brilliant appearance (up to ~92% light transmission)
Excellent UV and weather resistance – long-lasting clarity
Easy to process: sawing, milling, polishing, bonding, thermoforming
Lightweight with good dimensional stability
Many variants: clear, tinted, satin, mirrored, textured

Displays & POS Signage Furniture & interior design Outdoor glazing

Note: lower impact resistance compared to PC.

LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET – strengths and characteristics

Extremely impact resistant – virtually unbreakable, ideal for protective uses
Higher heat resistance, good fire behavior (self-extinguishing)
Cold bendable and highly formable without stress cracking
High safety in demanding environments
Available with coatings (e.g. scratch-resistant, UV-stable)

Machine guards Safety glazing Protective screens Technical covers

Note: uncoated PC is more sensitive to scratches; for outdoor use choose a UV-protected version.

Direct comparison: PLEXIGLAS® vs. LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET

Property	PLEXIGLAS® (PMMA)	LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET (PC)
Optical clarity	Very high, brilliant surface	High, slightly tinted possible
Light transmission	Up to ~92%	~88%
Impact strength	Much higher than glass	Extremely high (safety applications)
Scratch resistance	Higher, hard surface	Lower (excellent with hardcoat)
UV / weather resistance	Outstanding	Very good with UV coating
Formability	Excellent thermoformability	Cold bendable & thermoformable
Weight	~50% lighter than glass	Slightly heavier than PMMA, still much lighter than glass

Selection guide – which material suits your project?

Choose PLEXIGLAS® if …

maximum optical clarity and brilliance are key
long-term UV and weather stability are required
you are designing signage, displays, furniture, or interior applications
a high-quality, easily machinable surface is desired

Choose LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET if …

highest impact strength and safety are essential
you are planning machine guards, protective covers, or technical parts
cold bending, dynamic loads, or heat resistance are important
a coated, scratch- or UV-resistant version is available or required

Tip: for projects requiring both safety and clarity, a coated polycarbonate may be ideal.

Care & processing – practical tips

Cleaning

Use soft cloths/microfiber, lukewarm water, and mild soap
Avoid abrasives or solvents (risk of stress cracking)

Cutting & machining

Use fine-tooth tools, moderate feed rates, ensure cooling
Deburr and polish edges for best appearance

Bending & forming

PMMA: best formed when heated; PC: also cold-bendable
Observe minimum radii and tension limits

Bonding & joining

Use adhesives suitable for PMMA/PC
Always perform tests and follow manufacturer guidelines

Original quality directly from the manufacturer – certified materials and traceability.
Long lifespan thanks to durable surfaces and weather-resistant variants.
Efficient use of material: choose correct formats and variants to reduce waste.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Which material scratches more easily?

PMMA has a harder surface and is more scratch resistant by default. Polycarbonate with a hardcoat achieves excellent scratch resistance.

Which sheet is better for outdoor use?

PMMA is naturally UV-stable and weather-resistant. PC with UV protection or coating is also suitable for outdoor use.

Can the material be cold bent?

Polycarbonate (LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET) can be cold bent. PMMA (PLEXIGLAS®) should be thermoformed to avoid stress cracks.

Discover PLEXIGLAS® Discover LEXAN™ FILM & SHEET