Is clear acrylic the same as Perspex?
Yes — in everyday language, clear acrylic and Perspex are often used interchangeably, but technically speaking, Perspex is a brand name, not a material.
The Science and Story Behind Acrylic
The material we’re referring to is PMMA (Polymethylmethacrylat) — a transparent thermoplastic first developed in the 1930s, during a period of rapid advancement in polymer chemistry. PMMA is valued for its exceptional optical clarity, durability, and resistance to impact and weathering, making it ideal for both industrial and decorative applications.
The origin of acrylic sheet production is both scientific and historical. In 1934, Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in the United Kingdom launched the brand Perspex, one of the first commercial cast acrylic sheets. Around the same time, Röhm & Haas in Germany introduced Plexiglasund DuPont in the United States introduced Lucite. These were all essentially the same material — PMMA — but marketed under different brand names.
During World War II, Perspex gained strategic value as a material for aircraft canopies, submarine periscopes, and bomber gun turrets, due to its lightweight and high impact resistance compared to glass. After the war, surplus acrylic became widely available for civilian use, particularly in construction, advertising, and design. From then on, “Perspex” became a generic term in many English-speaking countries for clear acrylic sheet, even when produced by other manufacturers.
Other Names for Acrylic Sheets
Depending on region and usage, clear acrylic may also be referred to as:
PMMA (Polymethylmethacrylat) – the chemical name
Acrylic – the general term for the material
Acrylglas oder Organic glass – for its glass-like transparency
Plexiglas, Lucite, Altuglas – alternative international brand names
Perspex – commonly used in the UK
有机玻璃 (Youji Boli) – “organic glass” in Chinese
Summary
All Perspex is acrylic, but not all acrylic is technically Perspex.
While Perspex started as a brand, it has become widely accepted as a general term for clear acrylic sheet.
With roots in 1930s polymer innovation, acrylic has grown into a globally essential material — used in everything from aerospace and architecture to signage and furniture.
This content is brought to you by alandsacrylic, a professional manufacturer of acrylic sheets with years of experience in the plastic panel industry.
