What’s the Difference Between Lucite and Acrylic Chairs

Transparent Acrylic chair
Source: Keekea

The most major difference between Lucite and Acrylic is that the former is merely a brand name for polymethyl methacrylate, whilst the latter is the chemical name for the substance. Lucite is more often known as “PMMA” (polymethyl methacrylate). Acrylic is another name for lucite, which is more common.

The fundamental components of plastics are called acrylate polymers. Transparency, adaptability, and long-term viability are all qualities that have been suggested as desirables. As a result of this, they are usually referred to as acrylic polymers by the general public. 

The type of polymer known as polymethyl methacrylate is the one that is encountered the vast majority of the time among these many polymers (PMMA). As a consequence of this, the polymer in question is generally referred to within the industry as “acrylic,” or by the brand name “Lucite.”

What Are Lucite Chairs?

Lucite chairs
Source: iStock

Lucite is a brand name that is used to refer to polymethyl methacrylate. In addition, the brand names Perspex, Acrylite, Crylux, and Plexiglass are widely recognized. It is a thermoplastic polymer that has a translucent appearance and can be described as such. It is essential because it can be used in place of sheet glass. As a cast resin, it can also be exploited in the production of coatings and inks.

Poly is the name given to this polymer by the IUPAC (methyl 2-methyl propanoate). The chemical formula for the repeating unit of the polymer, which has a molar mass that can vary, is (C5O2H8)n.

The temperature at which it melts is 160 degrees Celsius, and its density, measured in grams per cubic centimeter, is 1.18. Emulsion polymerization, solution polymerization, and bulk polymerization are the three primary methods that are utilized in the production of this polymer.

This particular polymer is not only lightweight but also sturdy and tough. The density of this polymer is significantly lower than that of glass. On the other hand, its resistance to impact is far higher than that of glass and polystyrene. This particular polymer allows around 92% of visible light to pass through while also blocking UV radiation with wavelengths that are shorter than 300 nm.

What Are Acrylic Chairs?

Clear Acrylic chairs
Source: Keekea

An acrylic chair is a chair built from the plastic material acrylic. The chair’s tendency to appear transparent has earned it the nickname “ghost chair.” While the majority of acrylic chair types are transparent, some are tinted to enhance definition and visual appeal. 

Despite the fact that acrylic is more durable than glass, a clear chair often resembles a piece of glass. However, due to its increased susceptibility to scratching, the chair may develop a patina of scratches or other blemishes over time.

The precise design of an acrylic chair may vary substantially depending on the designer’s intentions; the chairs may have a traditional or avant-garde appearance. Acrylic is reasonably easy to mould into a variety of forms, and there are multiple methods for doing so. 

As a result, the design options for acrylic chairs are typically much more diversified than those for chairs produced from other materials. When applied to a direct force or load, glass is susceptible to breaking or cracking. Acrylic material is often more durable than glass, making it a safer material for furniture.

On occasion, acrylic may be combined with other materials during chair construction. Although the majority of acrylic chair varieties are built solely of acrylic, wood and metal are sometimes blended with acrylic to increase the chair’s durability and aesthetic appeal.

Comparison – Lucite vs Acrylic Chairs

Lucite vs acrylic
Source: iStock

Lucite and acrylic chairs are both made of materials that are clear and hard. The most significant difference between Lucite and acrylic chairs is that the former is merely a brand name for polymethyl methacrylate, whilst the latter is the chemical name for the substance. Lucite is more often known as “PMMA” (polymethyl methacrylate). Acrylic is another name for lucite, which is more common.

Furthermore, Lucite is more expensive than acrylic, but it is also stronger and more scratch-resistant. Acrylic chairs are also cheaper to produce than lucite chairs, so they are more common in commercial settings.

Conclusion

Both Lucite and Acrylic chairs are highly durable. However, the acrylic chair is more cost-effective, so it is a good choice for commercial settings such as restaurants and cafes where the chairs might be used often. It also has a much nicer finish than Lucite. Moreover, most people find that acrylic chairs and Lucite chairs are comfortable.

The Keekea acrylic chairs have an amazing level of durability and make them ideal for any setting. With the results of performance testing, we offer distinctive acrylic chairs that are built for long-term use and marketed to meet the needs of a modern home, business, and any hospitality setting. Get in touch with us as soon as possible for any questions. We’re here for any chair supply needs!

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