Specifications

Material data sheets

Physical properties, fire and flammability ratings, and weathering data for the materials used across compression molded acrylic (CMA) product lines. Typical values. They are not specification limits, and they can vary with thickness, color, and processing.

Thermoformed Signs · michael@thermoformedsigns.com · 919.673.0012 · Made in America

TS-MDS-01 — Compression molded acrylic panel (PMMA)

Continuously processed (extruded) poly(methyl methacrylate) acrylic sheet complying with ASTM D4802, compression molded into a one-piece ADA sign panel with integrally formed raised characters and Grade 2 Braille. Rigid, lightweight, weather-resistant, and dimensionally stable.

Uses: ADA room identification, wayfinding, stair and life-safety signage, interior and exterior architectural signage.

Available thicknesses (finished panels): 1/16 in., 1/8 in. (standard), 1/4 in., 3/8 in., and 1/2 in., with 5/8 in., 3/4 in., 7/8 in., and 1 in. available. Colors: clear, white, black, and solid colors.

TS-MDS-01 typical properties
PropertyTest methodTypical value
Specific gravityASTM D7921.19
Tensile strengthASTM D63810,000 psi (69 MPa)
Elongation at ruptureASTM D6384.5%
Flexural strengthASTM D79017,000 psi (117 MPa)
Compressive strength (yield)ASTM D69517,000 psi (117 MPa)
Izod impact, milled notchASTM D2560.4 ft·lb/in. of notch
Rockwell hardnessASTM D785M-93
Light transmission, clearASTM D100392%
Refractive indexASTM D5421.49
Water absorption, 24 h at 73°FASTM D5700.2%
Deflection temperature, 264 psiASTM D648195°F (91°C)
Vicat softening pointASTM D1525220°F (105°C)
Max. continuous service temperature—160°F (71°C); 190°F (88°C) short, intermittent
Low service temperature—−30°F (−34°C)
Coefficient of linear thermal expansionASTM D6960.000040 in./in./°F
Burning rate (0.125 in.)ASTM D6351.0 in./min (25 mm/min)
Self-ignition temperatureASTM D1929850°F (455°C)
Flammability classificationUL 94HB
  • Fire performance: acrylic is a combustible thermoplastic. Keep away from flames and high-heat sources, and follow applicable building codes.
  • Weathering and UV: recommended for indoor and outdoor use; withstands prolonged exposure to sun and the elements. Filters 80–90% of UV light in the 250–400 nm range.
  • Thermal movement: expands and contracts 3–8 times as much as glass or metal. A 48 in. panel moves about 0.002 in. per °F.
  • Chemical resistance: resistant to mild soap solutions, dilute acids and alkalis, and aliphatic hydrocarbons. Attacked by aromatic solvents, chlorinated hydrocarbons, ketones, esters, lacquer thinners, and high-concentration alcohols.
  • Care: clean with soap and water or non-alcohol, non-ammonia-based cleaners. Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh solvents.

TS-MDS-04 — Acrylic-based solid surface

Non-porous, acrylic-based solid surface sheet for specialty architectural sign applications.

TS-MDS-04 typical properties
PropertyTypical value
Density1.6–1.8 g/cm³
Water solubilityInsoluble
OdorOdorless
Hazard classification (as supplied sheet)Not classified as hazardous
StabilityStable under normal conditions
  • Fabrication note: machining generates fine dust; control dust accumulation.
  • Fire-performance data is available on request where required by code.

TS-MDS-05 — UV-cured screen ink system

UV-cured screen ink system used for second-surface (subsurface) color and paint tipping. Cures to a tough, highly block-resistant finish. Available in gloss and matte colors.

  • Gloss colors at full strength, properly cured: formulated for 2 years of outdoor durability when mounted vertically. Outdoor durability cannot be specified exactly; slight color change and gloss loss should be expected.
  • Overprint clear increases outdoor durability.
  • Matte colors and economy halftones: projected 6 months of outdoor durability. Use them for interior applications.
  • Fluorescent colors fade quickly under UV exposure.
  • Subsurface graphics are protected behind the acrylic face.
  • Adhesion verification: cross-hatch tape test per ASTM D3359. Full adhesion develops within 4 hours of proper cure.

TS-MDS-06 — Mounting tapes

TS-MDS-06 foam and film mounting tapes
PropertyFoam mounting tapeFilm mounting tape
ConstructionDouble-sided black polyethylene foamDouble-sided transparent polypropylene film
AdhesivePure acrylicTackified acrylic
Total thickness1.2 mm (47 mil)220 µm (8.7 mil)
Tensile strength15.5 N/cm (8.9 lb/in.)50 N/cm
Elongation at break400%—
Temperature resistance, long term194°F (90°C)176°F (80°C)
Temperature resistance, short term212°F (100°C)266°F (130°C)
Minimum temperatureCold-shock resistant to −40°F (−40°C)−40°F (−40°C)
Adhesion to steel, after 14 days17 N/cm13.5 N/cm
UV aging / humidity resistance—Good / very good
Typical useStandard wall mounting; conforms to uneven surfacesThin-profile and laminate applications

Safety data

Safety data sheets for these materials is available on request. Contact Michael.

Photoluminescent and embedded materials are specified per project. Ask Michael for the data that applies to that sign type.