If you work in the world of exhibitions or advertising, you have probably heard of acrylic and polycarbonate. These two materials are widely used in printing technology, but they have different properties that make them ideal for various applications. But what exactly sets them apart, and when should you use which material? In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about acrylic and polycarbonate in digital printing technology.
What is acrylic?
Acrylic, often referred to as acrylic glass or plexiglass, is a transparent plastic particularly known for its high light transmission. With a light transmission of up to 92%, acrylic offers a clarity that surpasses glass. This makes it perfect for applications where transparency and optical quality are essential, such as advertising signs, displays, or lightboxes.
In digital printing, acrylic offers a unique advantage: its smooth, hygienic surface provides excellent adhesion for inks. Acryl is ideal for various techniques and can be easily cut and adapted into different shapes and sizes, making it a flexible material for diverse print products.
What is polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate, often abbreviated as PC, is an extremely durable plastic known for its impact resistance. Polycarbonate sheets are approximately 250 times more shatter-resistant than glass while remaining very lightweight. This high resistance to mechanical stress makes polycarbonate a preferred material for applications with heavy material loads. In digital printing technology, polycarbonate is frequently used for applications that require high stability and durability.
While it doesn’t match acrylic’s clarity, polycarbonate excels in UV resistance (with proper material selection) and durability against environmental factors. It’s ideal for outdoor applications and products exposed to frequent contact or vandalism.
Processing and further processing
Another crucial factor in digital printing technology is the processability of materials. Acrylic can be easily cut, drilled, and milled, making it highly versatile for various applications. It is particularly well-suited for applications that require precise edges and a smooth surface.
Polycarbonate is somewhat more challenging to process because its impact resistance and toughness make it more resistant to mechanical influences. However, it can also be milled and drilled, although a special protective layer may be required to prevent scratches. Polycarbonate is particularly well-suited for applications where impact resistance and durability are the primary concerns.
Which material is right for you?
When choosing the right material for your project, everything depends on the application. Acrylic is an excellent choice if you need high transparency and a smooth surface, making it ideal for advertising and design products. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is the best option when safety, durability, and resilience are the main priorities. Both materials have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific requirements of your project.
Whether you choose acrylic or polycarbonate for your project—both materials enable you to create impressive, durable, and functional products.
We have listed the most important applications for you here. Maybe yours is already included, but if not, feel free to contact us directly.
1. Advertising signs and displays
A classic application of acrylic in digital printing is advertising signs and displays. Acrylic offers excellent light transmission, making printed colors stand out vividly. Its compatibility with UV printing enables razor-sharp, long-lasting prints on acrylic sheets. Widely used in retail spaces, trade shows, and construction advertising, acrylic excels for illuminated signs and lightbox displays—delivering brilliant graphics.
2. Photo prints and art reproductions
Another exciting application of acrylic in digital printing technology is photo printing or the reproduction of artworks. Acrylic is often used as a substrate for high-quality prints because it makes the print appear intense and brilliant. Printing directly onto the acrylic surface gives the image depth and a gloss that captivates the viewer. Such acrylic prints are commonly found in galleries or as decorative elements in modern homes.
3. Individual products and merchandising
Acrylic is often used to create custom products such as engraved nameplates, trophies, or art objects. In digital printing technology, acrylic is an ideal material for such personalized items due to its formability and ease of processing. The high-quality prints on acrylic also give the products an exclusive appearance.
Polycarbonate in digital printing technology: Robust and functional
Polycarbonate is a plastic renowned for its high impact resistance and durability. These properties make it a preferred material for applications demanding safety and resilience. In digital printing, numerous use cases leverage these unique traits.
1. Security and vandalism protection
A standout application of polycarbonate is its use in safety and protection technology. Polycarbonate is often used for safety glass, protective covers, and vandal-resistant products. Thanks to its impact resistance and durability against mechanical stress, polycarbonate is the ideal material for applications under heavy load, such as information and display systems in public areas.
Conclusion: Acrylic vs. polycarbonate in digital printing – the perfect choice for your project
Acrylic and polycarbonate are indispensable materials in digital printing, each excelling through unique properties. Both plastics offer specific advantages and meet distinct requirements depending on the application.
Acrylic: Brilliant appearance and versatile applications
Acrylic, renowned for its high transparency and smooth surface, is the top choice for applications where aesthetics and optical quality are paramount. With up to 92% light transmission, it makes printed colors pop and lends products a premium appearance. Primarily used for advertising signs, lightboxes, displays, photo prints, and art reproductions, its excellent workability allows easy cutting, milling, or shaping into custom forms. These traits make acrylic a preferred material in advertising and design.
Polycarbonate: Focus on robustness and safety
Polycarbonate is known for its exceptional impact resistance and durability. It is 250 times more shatter-resistant than glass, making it ideal for applications where safety and resilience are a priority. Particularly in areas such as safety glazing, vandal-resistant signs, or protective covers, polycarbonate showcases its strengths. It remains stable even under extreme environmental conditions, making it perfect for outdoor applications. Polycarbonate is commonly used in public spaces, industry, or information systems where high load-bearing capacity is required.
Comparison and decision support
The choice between acrylic and polycarbonate depends on your project needs. If visual brilliance and aesthetic finish are priorities, acrylic is the best choice—ideal for creative and decorative applications. Polycarbonate, however, suits projects demanding durability, safety, and long-term resilience.
Shared potential
Both materials can be excellently printed or equipped with modern printing techniques and offer versatile application possibilities. Whether indoors or outdoors, acrylic and polycarbonate help you create impressive and functional products.
Leverage the benefits of these plastics and choose the material that best meets your requirements – for long-lasting and impressive results in digital printing technology.
