Here are some facts.
Here are some facts about the differences between acrylic & lexan. Dr Jim Willis has spoken about these facts sometimes in the past. His recommendations have always been that acrylic is the preferred material because of the scratching & yellowing of lexan (polycarbonate). Key characteristics/differences, Acrylic compared to Polycarbonate (Lexan): • More likely to chip, less impact resistance then Polycarbonate. (still 10-24 times more resistant than glass) • Less likely to scratch. • More of a consumer (household) level and is easier to find at hardware stores. • Does NOT yellow after time. • Better clarity and can be restored to optical clarity. Key characteristics/differences, Polycarbonate (Lexan) compared to Acrylic: • Impact/chip resistance is much higher with Polycarbonate. (about 30 times more resistant than glass) • More likely to scratch. • Substantially more expensive. (roughly 2 to 3 times) • Used for more industry applications • Bulletproof when thick enough. • More bendable. • More formable. • Yellows over time due to ultraviolet rays • Easier to work with (cut, less likely to break) • Poorer clarity, diffuses light, can lighten (could be positive).
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