Acrylic is the most popular material used to construct aquariums and is favored over glass for its durability, clarity, and lightweight. Acrylic is a type of plastic that is produced by the polymerization of a monomer called methyl methacrylate (MMA). When MMA molecules are heated, they bond together and form long chains, creating a solid and transparent material.
Acrylic aquariums are becoming more common in the aquarium industry due to their many benefits. The first and most significant benefit is their strength and durability. Unlike glass, acrylic has a much higher impact resistance, making it nearly 17 times stronger than traditional glass. This means that it is much harder to break, crack, or chip, making acrylic aquariums an excellent choice for homeowners with young children or pets.
One of the most distinctive features of acrylic aquariums is the material’s transparency. Acrylic allows up to 92% of light to pass through, resulting in a bright and clear view of the aquarium’s inhabitants. This property of acrylic is especially important for the wellbeing of marine life in the tank, as it allows photosynthesis to occur naturally, which is vital to the growth of aquarium plants and marine animals.
Acrylic aquariums are also easier to maintain than traditional glass aquariums. Because of the material’s smooth surface, algae and other unsightly substances do not adhere to it as easily as they do to glass. A quick clean with an acrylic-safe cleaner can instantly restore the aquarium’s clarity.
Another benefit of acrylic aquariums is their lightweight. Acrylic is almost half as heavy as glass, making it much easier to move and install. In addition, large acrylic aquariums can be constructed as one piece, making them easy to transport and install without having to worry about sealing seams.
Acrylic aquariums can be customized to fit any size or shape. Traditional glass aquariums come in standard sizes, which makes it challenging to find the perfect fit for your unique space. Since acrylic is relatively easy to manipulate, it can be molded to any shape or size, enabling homeowners to create a truly bespoke aquarium that fits perfectly into their home.
Acrylic aquariums also offer a better insulation than glass aquariums. They act as a better thermal insulator, reducing the likelihood of water temperature fluctuations. This helps maintain a comfortable living environment for aquatic animals, making them happier and healthier.
However, acrylic does have some drawbacks. One disadvantage is that it is more susceptible to scratching than glass. This can happen when cleaning the aquarium by using rags, paper towels or even some types of sponges or brushes. However, many manufacturers now offer specialized cleaners and scratch-repair kits to help restore the appearance of the aquarium.
Acrylic aquariums are more expensive than glass aquariums. However, the long-term cost is often less expensive than glass. For example, replacing a glass aquarium due to damage can be costly and time-consuming, whereas a scratched or damaged acrylic aquarium can be restored and polished thereby keeping it functional for longer.
When selecting an acrylic aquarium, it is essential to ensure that the material used meets the required thickness based on the aquarium’s size. The wall thickness requirement will increase with the aquarium’s size increase to provide appropriate structural support.
In conclusion, acrylic aquariums are an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a durable, lightweight, and customizable aquarium. Its benefits such as impact resistance, clarity, and thermal insulation make it a popular choice in fishkeeping. Care should be taken when cleaning the surface to prevent scratches, but many specialized cleaners and repair kits can be used to fix any damage. The cost of an acrylic aquarium may be more expensive initially, but the long-term savings make it a worthwhile investment for keeping aquatic life safe and healthy.