Clear Polycarbonate Sheet
Clear polycarbonate for optical and impact-sensitive parts; confirm transmission and impact grade at the specified thickness.
Clear Acrylic Sheet
Clear acrylic for displays, signs and glazing; confirm grade-specific transmission, UV exposure and surface finish.
Clear acrylic transmits up to 92% of visible light — more than window glass, which loses a few percent to its own green iron tint. Held edge-on the difference is obvious: glass shows green, acrylic stays colourless.
It weighs roughly half what glass does for the same panel, and acrylic generally offers good outdoor UV stability, but long-term clarity still depends on the grade, exposure and maintenance.
Specification
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Light transmission | Up to 92% |
| Thickness | 1 mm – 30 mm |
| Widths | 1220 mm and 1830 mm standard; other widths to order |
| Weight | Approx. half that of glass for the same panel |
| UV stability | Inherent — no co-extruded layer required |
| Process options | Cast or extruded |
| Surface hardness | Significantly harder than uncoated polycarbonate |
| Impact behaviour | Cracks under heavy impact — specify polycarbonate if that matters |
Typical applications
- Retail display cases and shelving
- Picture framing and protective glazing
- Signage faces and lettering
- Furniture, fixtures and shop fitting
- Aquariums and water-retaining structures (thick cast)
Questions buyers ask
Is acrylic clearer than glass?
Yes. Acrylic reaches about 92% light transmission against roughly 90% for standard float glass, and it has no green edge tint. In a display cabinet the difference is visible.
How do I clean it without scratching?
Warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Never use ammonia-based glass cleaner or paper towel — both damage the surface. This is the most common cause of complaints we see, and it is entirely avoidable.
Will it crack if something hits it?
It can. Acrylic is roughly 10× more impact resistant than glass, but far below polycarbonate, and it fails by cracking. Where impact is likely, specify clear polycarbonate instead.
Where to look next
Related pages
Cast Acrylic Sheet
The fabricator’s grade — machines cleanly, engraves sharply, flame-polishes to an optical edge.
Acrylic for Display & Retail
Sheet for the fabricators who build display cases, stands, shelving and shop fittings — cast for machining, extruded for laser…
Polycarbonate Glazing & Secondary Panels
Custom clear PC panels for building openings: send the opening schedule, frame detail, exposure and required evidence for a quote.