Acrylic sheets are widely used across advertising, construction, interior design, and display industries thanks to their excellent transparency, processability, and visual appeal. But did you know that there are many different types of acrylic sheets, each with its own specific properties and uses?

Choosing the wrong type can result in deformation, cracking, yellowing, or installation issues. This article breaks down 6 major types of acrylic sheets, explaining their features, common applications, potential challenges, and selection tips—all in one place.

Clear Acrylic Sheet

Features

• Light transmittance up to 92%

• Glass-like clarity, but lighter and shatter-resistant

• Easily thermoformed, cut, drilled, and bonded

Typical Applications

• Lightbox panels, display covers, protective barriers, packaging boxes

• Window replacement, transparent product enclosures

Notes

• Cast acrylic is better than extruded: more optical clarity, fewer distortions

• For outdoor use, ensure UV-resistant grade to prevent yellowing

Recommended Thickness: 2mm – 10mm

Colored Acrylic Sheet

Features

• Rich color selection (50+ shades), color is embedded and fade-resistant

• Available in opaque, semi-transparent, and high-transparency finishes

• Suitable for engraving, cutting, and creative visual applications

Typical Applications

• Advertising signs, logos, crafts, directional signage

• Decorative walls, retail props, creative installations

Common Issues

• Dark colors may absorb heat and deform under sunlight

• Low-contrast engraving—use dual-color or matte finishes for clarity

Recommended Colors: Red, black, gold, opal, blue, orange, etc.

Mirror Acrylic Sheet

Features

• High-reflection mirror surface, metallic finish

• Lightweight—less than half the weight of glass mirrors

• Safer than glass, ideal for children’s environments

Typical Applications

• Makeup displays, wall mirrors, photo booths, toy mirrors

Usage Tips

• Must be mounted on a rigid, flat surface to prevent warping

• Surface is scratch-prone—opt for scratch-resistant variants or use a protective film

Recommended Thickness: 1mm – 3mm

Marble Acrylic Sheet

Features

• Natural-looking marble grain textures

• Combines the decorative appeal of stone with the workability of acrylic

• Lightweight and easy to cut or shape

Typical Applications

• Commercial walls, cabinet fronts, countertops, reception desks, partitions

Usage Tips

• Avoid high-temperature zones like stoves

• Combine with lighting to create a backlit stone effect

Popular Styles: White jade, black gold, grey marble, cream swirl

Frosted / Matte Acrylic Sheet

Features

• Fine matte surface, anti-glare and anti-fingerprint

• Soft lighting effect with partial light transmittance

• Sleek and modern look

Typical Applications

• Office partitions, lampshades, signage, premium packaging

Usage Tips

• Works beautifully with laser engraving for logos or patterns

• Install with frosted side facing out to avoid cleaning scratches

Acrylic Sheet Types-Recommended Combo: Backlit LED panels with matte acrylic for soft lighting

Aquarium-Grade Acrylic Sheet

Features

• Ultra-clear (92%+ light transmission), available in 20–50mm thick options

• Extremely high impact resistance, lighter and stronger than glass

• Can be shaped into curves for panoramic viewing

Typical Applications

• Large aquariums, oceanarium tanks, fish tanks, pool windows

Usage Tips

• Use high-molecular cast acrylic for large tanks

• Bonding must be done with special UV adhesives and seamless polishing to prevent leaks

Thickness Reference: 6–12mm for home tanks, 20–50mm for commercial tanks

Summary: Choose the Right Acrylic Sheet for the Right Job