Polymethyl Methaclylate – known more commonly as acrylic – is an amazing and versatile material. Its fascinating aesthetic and material properties make it suited for a range of different roles. Acrylic can be used to make the lenses in glasses, or replacement canopies for spitfires, or a huge variety of other things!
First developed and marketed in the 1930s, acrylic is a transparent plastic that has properties that make it a suitable substitute for glass. Compared to glass acrylic is less dense and has higher impact strength, making it lighter and less likely to break. Acrylic also does not shatter like glass does, making it useful for interior design and dcor. Furniture manufacturers tend to incorporate acrylic into their furniture design nowadays, making their produce look more modern and futuristic. The possibilities for acrylic furniture design are endless. No matter what your personal style there’s an acrylic furniture design right for you.
An interesting aspect of artistic acrylic design is the use of acrylic’s inherent light transmitting qualities. Acrylic allows light through it more than glass does, and some creatively crafted acrylic art sparkle like jewels under natural and artificial lighting. Taking full advantage of acrylic’s unique light transmitting properties and its flexibility acrylic sculptors have designed amazing pieces, which have then been proudly displayed in homes and offices – even in art galleries. These acrylic sculptures come in a range of designs, from simple flowers or fish shapes to creative, futuristic designs. Acrylic design enthusiasts often use specialized lighting techniques in order to accentuate and draw emphasis to aspects of the design, making the sculpture a sight not to be quickly forgotten.
Though they may look delicate and fragile, pieces of acrylic art are easily maintained. Simple dusts and fingerprints can be wiped off the surface with a clean cloth, though for more thorough cleaning and to remove dirt from frosted acrylic parts the sculpture can be washed with a non-abrasive soap. Window cleaner and dishwasher soap are not to be used, however, as they will damage the acrylic. Ideally, of course, a specially made acrylic cleaner should be used in order to keep a piece of acrylic art sparkling for years to come. Scratches can be easily removed from acrylic, too! Just another of its marvellous features.
Author: Pippa Young
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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