Dictionary
Acrylic

Acrylic can be composed of various chemical substances that are derivatives of acrylic acid (CH2=CH-COOH), some of which are co-polymerized. The term "acrylic" is derived from the Latin adjective "acer" [sharp, pungent, piercing] and ultimately Greek "ákron" [point, summit] due to the pungent odour of acrylic acid. Copolymers of acrylic acid, called acrylates, are used inter alia as binders for paints and lacquers, injection moulded thermoplastic products (such as Perspex), glues and working materials in the field of dentistry. Quick drying and color-fast, they are also used as a polymethyl methacrylate vehicle for dispersing pigment and water to make acrylic colors.