How to Weld Plexiglass Sheets

Plexiglass sheets are acrylic or plastic sheets which are see-through in nature. These are used instead of glass sheets as they are light and shatter-resistant. It is also very economical and useful. To weld two sheets of plexiglass, we need to use plexiglass solvent. Plexiglass solvent, as the name suggests is solvent which dissolves the plastic bonds present in the glass and rebind them as it dries up.

Step 1 - Clean the Plexiglass Sheets

The plexiglass sheets have to be scrubbed clean. Ensure that the sheets fit into each other perfectly or else use the sandpaper to even out the edges. A ninety degree angle has to be ensured before we start welding and for that clamps can be used to hold the sheets together. Use goggles while doing this activity and also cover your nose and mouth to avoid inhaling the plastic dust. The plexiglass sheet has to be free from grit and grime and should have smooth finish.

Step 2 - Fill up the Solvent into the Syringe

A syringe should be taken and filled with the plexiglass solvent. This is done by dipping the end into the bottle and pulling the plunger slowly so that the liquid is taken into the syringe. Be careful not to get air gaps and bubbles into the syringe. Handle the solvent carefully as it is flammable. It is also water soluble in the liquid state. Always put the lid on after the use, as exposure to air causes hardening of the solvent.

Step 3 - Weld the Plexiglass

Slowly push the syringe to release the solvent in the gap between the two sheets. This process has to be repeated on both sides if the thickness of the sheet is more than 0.5mm. This process ensures that the plexiglass sheets binds well with each other. This process must be done slowly without leaving any gaps in between the sheets. Nose mask can be worn to avoid inhaling the solvent fumes.

Step 4- Bind the sheets

After the welding is done press the ends of the sheets so the solvent holds the glasses firmly. This has to be done within 2–3 min of welding, or else, the solvent might start to harden up. The solvent does not glue the sheets together but instead loosen the molecules and re–binds them together as whole.

Step 5 - Cure the Sheets

It might take up to 2–3 days before the solvent dries up. This process is called curing and will help strengthen the bond between the attached glass sheets. Once the curing is complete the sheets can be used for any purpose. These acrylic sheets are more durable and break resistant.

These sheets can be used for making photo frames, aquariums, etc. These sheets are not scratch resistant and hence proper care should be taken to maintain the transparency of the sheets.

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