[Chemistry Class Notes] on Polymethyl Methacrylate Pdf for Exam

Polymethyl methacrylate, or PMMA, is a transparent organic polymer that is used as an alternative to glass. It is a rigid plastic that can find its application in a variety of industries. This synthetic resin is formed by the polymerization of methyl methacrylate.

Also referred to as plexiglass or acrylic glass, PMMA is used because it is easy to shape, tough and cost-effective. It has the ability to keep a light beam reflected within the surface and is also resistant to UV radiation. Acrylic glass can be used in a variety of products, including car windows, aquariums, screens of digital devices etc.

Polymethyl Methacrylate Structure

PMMA is formed by the free radical polymerization of monomer methyl methacrylate. The polymethyl methacrylate structure is a vinyl polymer which is an ester of methacrylic acid (CH₂=C[CH₃]CO₂H). 

The pendant CH₃ groups hinder the crystalline packing of the polymer chains. Since they are not allowed to rotate freely around the C-C bond, the resulting structure is quite rigid.

Production of PMMA

It is produced from propylene which is derived from the refining of crude oil. The process of formation of methyl methacrylate polymer involves the following steps:

• Propylene reacts with benzene to form isopropylbenzene or cumene.

• Cumene gets oxidized to form cumene hydroperoxide.

• This reacts with an acid to form acetone. 

• Acetone forms methyl methacrylate (CH₂=C[CH₃]CO₂CH₃) in liquid form.

• The polymerization of this compound in the presence of free-radical initiators forms PMMA in solid form.

Polymethyl Methacrylate Uses

Acrylic plastic or PMMA finds its application in a variety of industries due to its properties, easy processing and cost-effectiveness. PMMA is processed by injection molding, compression molding, extrusion or casting.

The extensive polymethyl methacrylate uses are a result of its advantageous properties and adaptability. This transparent plastic is used in a lot of markets. Some of the most common applications of PMMA are discussed below:

Glass Substitute

Acrylic glass is used as a shatterproof alternative for windows and skylights. It is also commonly used in aquariums and aircraft canopies. A lot of hockey rinks also use PMMA. Illuminated sign boards that display advertisements or directions are also usually made up of PMMA.

Construction and Design

Windows, doors, panels, canopies etc., all use polymethyl methacrylate due to its excellent properties such as heat insulation and light transmission. The polymer may also be used in the construction of sinks, baths, knobs or tap tops. 

Automobile Industry

One of the most important industries that require PMMA is the transportation and automobile industries. From car windows to windshields, acrylic sheets can be found in a lot of spaces. It is used in the manufacturing of various automotive parts. The aviation and marine industry also require this polymer.  Car indicator covers and panels are also made using plexiglass. 

Healthcare Industry

PMMA polymer is also known as bone cement in the healthcare industry. It is used by orthopaedic surgeons for procedures like joint replacement or treating bone damages. It can also be used to fill in the gaps between bones. Optical fibres used for endoscopy also consist of PMMA.

Cosmetic Usage

PMMA has also found its usage in various beauty products and injectables. It is used in cosmetic procedures that treat ace, facial lines, wrinkles etc. 

Lamps and Lighting

The light-emitting potential, transparency and other such properties allow PMMA to be used in LED lights and lamps. You can find PMMA being used in street and traffic lights. It is manufactured in various colour options, which adds to its usability in lamps and other lighting devices.

Electronic Devices

Acrylic glass can be used in the display of various electronic equipment, including tv screens, laptops and smartphones. This is due to its properties, such as transmittance and high optical clarity.

Solar Devices

The application of polymethyl methacrylate PMMA in solar panels is a result of its UV stability and light transmission ability. It can also be used in the construction of greenhouses, aquariums and marine centres.  

Other products where this polymer finds its application include paint, furniture and

optical fibres used for telecommunication.

Advantages of PMMA

PMMA has several advantages over other polymers like polycarbonate (PC) and polystyrene etc. It doesn’t scratch easily or yellow over time. PMMA is used as an alternative to other transparent polymers in situations where extreme strength is not required.

Some of the advantages of PMMA include:

• Economical

• Resistance to weathering

• Various colouring options

• Tensile strength

• Easy to process and handle

• Versatility

• Biocompatibility

• UV Stability

• Durability

• Transmittance and better optical clarity

• Recyclable

• Polishability 

• BPA-free, non-toxic