Among thermoplastic materials, there is one that is especially valued among artists and designers because of the wide range of possibilities it offers them: methacrylate (Polycyril).

The possibility of reproducing any color in the palette, its high resistance to the passage of time, its malleability and easy manipulation, or the expressiveness of the lighting effects that occur on its surface, are some of the characteristics that define it.

Depending on the work to be done, the creative has delved into some of these properties to achieve their objectives, then we show them some brushstrokes of what can be achieved by taking advantage of their advantages.

Unlimited color chart

Although we have a wide range of standard colors in Policril cast, the designer's creativity is limitless, so if the special requirements of a project require a specific RAL, at IRPEN we offer the possibility of counteracting that color and manufacturing it.

As it is cast PMMA, custom color productions are produced in small quantities, the number of plates will vary mainly depending on the following parameters:

• Of the requested color: translucent, opal or opaque.
• Of the finish: smooth, matte or double matte.
• Of the specialty, HF (high fluorescence), LED (special for lighting), NK (pearlescent range in metallic colors).
• Of the thickness.

Durability and resistance in outdoor applications

Polycyril (PMMA) is the most stable thermoplastic against the action of ultraviolet rays, without its physical appearance or mechanical properties being altered. One of its greatest advantages compared to other materials is the stability of the colors after years of exposure of the material to the elements.

In addition, it is worth noting both its low weight (half that of glass) and its good behavior in the face of environmental abrasion, the latter being up to seven times greater than that of compact polycarbonate without specific treatment.

Formable thermos/easy to handle

In addition to its good optical properties and durability, PMMA makes it easy to work, whether cold or hot.

From basic first-level operations (cutting/grinding/polishing), to more delicate second-level operations by providing heat (basic bending/molding). Cast PMMA allows its usual stiffness to be lost at a certain temperature and begins to behave like a ductile and moldable material. When Polycyril is heated to temperatures around 140-170°C, it allows it to be worked in three dimensions, making it possible to perform complex third-level operations (complex molding), where molds require greater complexity and higher pressures.

Lighting effects and methacrylate

Methacrylate allows both the transmission and diffusion of light. Consequently, the lighting effects that can be achieved are very attractive and varied from a creative point of view.

Thanks to its ability to reflect/refract an incident light beam causing the light to open and distribute in all directions from the point of incidence. If we manipulate the surface using engraving/milling techniques, it will be possible to direct the light to where the artist imagines.

By manipulating the surface and then homogeneously backlighting the piece, three-dimensional effects can be achieved.