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Will clear acrylic sheets oxidise and turn yellow?

Will clear acrylic sheets oxidise and turn yellow?

2023-05-05

Clear Acrylic Sheet is an increasingly popular material choice for a range of different applications due to their transparency, durability, and ability to be molded into various shapes and sizes. However, one concern that people often have about clear acrylic is whether it will yellow over time. In this article, we will explore this question in more detail.

Clear Acrylic Sheet is made using a thermoplastic polymer known as polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA. This polymer is highly resistant to UV radiation and is often used in outdoor displays, windows, skylights, and aquariums because it maintains its clarity and lustre for years.

However, like all plastics, Clear Acrylic Sheet can react to certain environmental factors such as heat and ultraviolet radiation and can eventually become yellow or hazy, which can detract from their appearance and reduce their optical transmission.


Clear Acrylic Sheet


One of the main culprits of yellowing in acrylic sheets is UV radiation, which can cause the polymer chains to break down and form free radicals that attack the material's chromophores, causing a yellowish tinge. This is especially true for cheaper, low-quality acrylic sheets. To avoid this, high-quality acrylic sheets are made using a special UV-inhibiting additive called a coalescing agent, which reduces the effect of UV radiation on the material.

Another factor that can contribute to yellowing is heat, which can also cause the PMMA to break down and age faster than normal. When PMMA decomposes, it creates acidic compounds that accelerate the yellowing process. Therefore, it is essential to keep clear acrylic sheets away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

To sum up, clear acrylic sheets can yellow over time, but it depends on various factors such as the quality of the material, the intensity of UV radiation, and exposure to heat. To ensure your sheets remain clear and transparent, invest in high-quality material with appropriate UV inhibitors and do not expose them to direct sunlight or heat. If you're unsure about which type of acrylic sheet to use, consult with a professional for expert advice.


Jiangmen Kunxin New Material Technology Co., Ltd has got over 10 years in Polycarbonate sheets and Acrylic Sheets manufacturing and supplying, and achieve two brand "J.K Optics" and "KunXin plas", which specialize in the optical Acrylic and Polycarbonate diffusion sheet and Textured Acrylic Panel manufacturing separately , has been serving the lighting industry & decoration material market for more than 10 years, products included: Light Diffuser.Optical Diffuser Film & Reflector.Light Guide Plate.Clear Acrylic Sheet.Reeded Or Stripe Acrylic Sheet.Textruded Acrylic Sheet;

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