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Polystyrene vs acrylic


Posted by tomh Moderator on June 17th, 2005 12:22 PM
In reply to acrylic vs. polystyrene shower stall by morarm on June 16th, 2005 04:26 PM [Go to top of thread]

5 of 6 people found this post helpful

Both are suitable for the application you intend, but they plastics are formed from completely different monomers. The manufacturing process can also be different (cast, thermoform, extrusion). The technical details are not too important.

I suggest you go to a high-end bath fixture store to compare the look and feel of the products and choose what fits your budget and aesthetics. Both can be formed into clear or opaque sheets and can have very good optical characteristics and vivid or transluscent color. Generally the look of acrylic is like glass and it seems harder to me. You should be able to tell the difference after comparing in person. Both are damaged by abrasive cleaners or solutions containing alcohol. Follow directions when you clean, or you will regret it. Also keep the masking on the panels during installation to protect the surface.

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