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Acrylic (PMMA): The Economic Powerhouse

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Acrylic (PMMA): The Economic Powerhouse

Nov 27 , 2025
Acrylic PMMA Lens Technology

 

Acrylic (PMMA): The Economic Powerhouse

High Transparency, Low Cost. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), often known as Acrylic, serves a vital role in the global eyewear market.

While not suited for high-impact sports or complex prescription optics, Acrylic is the undisputed king of the volume market. It offers exceptional optical clarity (higher light transmission than Polycarbonate) at a fraction of the cost. For promotional sunglasses, over-the-counter (OTC) reading glasses, and brand-new frame "demo lenses," PMMA provides the perfect balance of visual appeal and economic efficiency.

-------------- Cost-Effective Clarity ---------------

Glass-Like Clarity for Less

Don't let the low price tag fool you. PMMA is scientifically renowned for its transmission properties.

  • 92% Light Transmission: It is actually clearer than standard glass and Polycarbonate. This makes products look "premium" on the shelf despite the low manufacturing cost.
  • Injection Molded Efficiency: Like PC, Acrylic is injection molded, allowing for massive production output (thousands of pairs per day) with consistent quality.
  • UV Capability: With proper bulk additives, PMMA can still achieve UV400 protection standards.
Acrylic Transparency Test

 

-------------- Key Applications ---------------

Where PMMA Shines

Acrylic is the backbone of three specific eyewear sectors where cost and volume are the primary drivers.

  • Promotional Eyewear
    Promotional Eyewear
    For giveaways, events, and fast fashion, Acrylic allows brands to produce trendy shapes with colorful tints at the lowest possible SKU cost.
  • OTC Reading Glasses
    OTC Reading Glasses
    The standard material for pharmacy and bookstore reading glasses. It holds magnification power well and remains lightweight.
  • Frame Demo Lenses
    Frame "Demo" Lenses
    Used by frame manufacturers to maintain frame shape on display. High clarity ensures the customer looks good trying them on.

-------------- Limitations & Considerations ---------------

Technical Limitations

While excellent for budget applications, PMMA has specific physical properties that must be respected during manufacturing.

Brittleness

Acrylic is rigid and brittle. It cannot be used for drill-mount (rimless) frames as it will crack immediately. It is best for full-rim plastic or metal frames.

Chemical Sensitivity

PMMA is sensitive to alcohol and certain solvents. Cleaning agents must be chosen carefully to avoid clouding (crazing) the surface.

Scratch Resistance

Raw acrylic scratches easily. Jings Eyewear recommends applying a basic Hard Coating (HC) even for budget lines to extend shelf life and user value.

Attribute Acrylic (PMMA) Polycarbonate (PC)
Cost Lowest ($) Moderate ($$)
Impact Resistance Low (Brittle) Excellent
Refractive Index 1.49 1.59
Optical Clarity High (Clearer) Lower

Planning a High-Volume Campaign?

Get the best price-to-performance ratio with our precision-molded PMMA lenses.

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