Material comparison
ABS vs ABS-PMMA
ABS-PMMA is ABS with a co-extruded acrylic cap — the same tough, formable core plus a scratch-, UV- and chemical-resistant Class-A surface. The cap is the difference.
ABS vs ABS-PMMA — side by side
| ABS | ABS-PMMA | |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Good; usually painted for premium | Class-A gloss/matt, formed-in |
| Scratch / UV | Lower | High (PMMA cap) |
| Chemical / stain | Moderate | High |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Typical use | General housings, covers | Sanitary ware, appliance, RV cladding |
Choose ABS when…
- General housings and covers
- Lower cost where surface is non-critical
- Parts that will be painted anyway
Choose ABS-PMMA when…
- Premium show surfaces without painting
- Sanitary ware, appliance panels, RV/caravan cladding
- Scratch, UV and chemical resistance
The verdict: Choose plain ABS for general parts; choose ABS-PMMA when you need a premium, scratch- and UV-resistant surface straight off the tool — the cap removes the paint step.
Frequently asked
What does the PMMA cap add?
A hard, glossy, scratch-, UV- and chemical-resistant Class-A surface with colour matched in the sheet — so no painting, and it survives outdoors.
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