With the advancement of science and advent of new technologies, the world of construction has undergone a sea change. The modern-day materials used in construction tick all the boxes of durability, impact resistance and longevity and even come at an affordable rate. One such popular material is Lexan Glass, which is getting preferred over the conventional Plexiglas in many cases nowadays. 99acres brings you a complete overview of the features, advantages and cost of Lexan Glass, along with its comparison with Plexiglas.
What is Lexan Glass?
Lexan is a brand name for a type of polycarbonate sheet and resin, primarily manufactured by SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation). It is widely recognised for its exceptional strength, transparency, and versatility. This transparent thermoplastic offers high impact resistance, making it ideal for applications requiring a strong yet lightweight material.
Unlike traditional glass, Lexan is a thermoplastic material that belongs to the polycarbonate family. Apart from homes, this material is also used in a variety of industries, including construction, automotive, electronics, and signage. The cost of Lexan Glass in India typically varies from Rs 80 to Rs 120 per sq ft based on the quality and transparency of the material.
Features of Lexan Glass
Lexan glass, a popular choice in the construction industry, offers a range of impressive features that make it a preferred material for various applications. Here are the top features of Lexan Glass that contribute to its market demand:
- Durability: Lexan glass is known for its exceptional durability, being 250 times stronger than regular glass, making it highly resistant to impact and breakage.
- Transparency: With a high level of transparency, Lexan glass allows up to 90% of light transmission, making it ideal for creating bright and airy spaces.
- Weather resistance: It can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use without the risk of yellowing or degradation over time.
- Thermal insulation: Lexan glass provides excellent thermal insulation properties, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce energy costs.
These features make Lexan glass a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of architectural and construction projects.
Pros and cons of Lexan Glass
Let's explore the advantages and disadvantages of using Lexan glass:
Pros:
- Impact Resistance: Lexan glass is around 250 times stronger than traditional glass, making it highly durable.
- Lightweight: Despite its strength, Lexan glass is lightweight, making it easy to handle and install.
- UV Protection: Lexan glass offers excellent UV protection, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Cons:
- Scratch Prone: Lexan glass can be prone to scratching, requiring careful handling to maintain its clarity.
- Cost: While durable, Lexan glass can be more expensive than traditional glass options.
- Heat Sensitivity: Lexan glass may warp under high temperatures, limiting its use in certain environments.
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Differences between Lexan Glass and Plexiglas
When it comes to choosing between Lexan glass and Plexiglas for your construction projects, it's essential to understand the key differences between the two materials. The following table outlines the major differences between Lexan glass and Plexiglas:
| Differences between Lexan Glass and Plexiglas | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Lexan Glass | Plexiglass |
| Material Composition | Polycarbonate | Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) |
| Transparency | Clear and high transparency | Clear and high transparency |
| Impact Resistance | Extremely high impact resistance | Less impact-resistant than Lexan |
| Scratch Resistance | Highly scratch-resistant | More prone to scratches than Lexan |
| Weight | Heavier than Plexiglass | Lighter than Lexan |
| Flexibility | Less flexible, tends to crack | More flexible, less prone to cracking |
| Temperature Resistance | Can withstand high temperatures | Sensitive to high temperatures |
| Applications | Bulletproof glass, aircraft windows | Windows, displays, signage |
| Cost | Generally more expensive than Plexiglass | Generally more affordable than Lexan |
Ultimately, the choice between Lexan glass and Plexiglas depends on your specific project requirements and budget considerations.
Choosing between Lexan Glass and Plexiglas for Indian homes
When it comes to selecting the right type of glass for your home in India, considering factors like durability, cost, and maintenance is crucial. Lexan glass, known for its high impact resistance and strength, is a popular choice for areas prone to extreme weather conditions. On the other hand, Plexiglas, a type of acrylic glass, is lighter in weight compared to traditional glass.
The excellent optical clarity of Lexan Glass allows optimum light transmission, which is well-suited to areas when it is crucial to maintain the maximum visibility. Though Plexiglas offers sufficient transparency as well, its optical clarity does not match up to Lexan.
Also read: Plexiglass vs glass panes for windows
At the same time, for areas requiring high durability and impact resistance, such as balconies or windows facing harsh weather, Lexan glass is a reliable option. However, if you prioritise clarity and lighter weight, Plexiglas might be more suitable for decorative purposes or interior applications. Budget considerations may also play a role in the decision-making process. Lexan Glass is generally more expensive than Plexiglas and that might make many homeowners refrain from using it.
The choice between Lexan Glass and Plexiglas for Indian homes ultimately depends on the specific requirements and priorities of the homeowner. If impact resistance, durability, and optical clarity are critical, Lexan might be the preferred choice. However, if cost, scratch resistance, and weight are more significant considerations, Plexiglas could be a suitable alternative. It's advisable to assess the unique needs of each application within the home before making a decision.
