How to Test for Lucite

Lucite, otherwise known as acrylic glass, is a plastic commonly used in place of glass made from sand. It is often compared by illustrating the differences between a glass and acrylic fish tank. Acrylic is much harder to break, has the best visibility and is less thick than a glass aquarium. Lucite can be tested for using several methods such as heat, scratching, clearness, weight and density.

Nail
Lighter or candle
Water
Pound or gram scale
Liter graduated cylinder or ruler
Paper
Pen

Instructions

- 1
  Weigh the material thought to be Lucite using a pound or gram scale, depending on the size and weight of the sample. Record this number on the paper.
- 2
  Measure the width, length, and height of the material thought to be Lucite or drop the Lucite into a liter graduated cylinder filled with 500 milliliters of water and record the milliliter increase. Multiply the width by length and height to obtain the volume in centimeters cubed.
- 3
  Determine the density of the material using the equation density equals mass divided by volume. The density of Lucite is 1.17 to 1.20 grams divided by centimeters cubed.
- 4
  Attempt to scratch the material thought to be Lucite using a nail. Lucite scratches extremely easily.
- 5
  Light the material on fire or attempt to melt using a candle or lighter. Lucite melts with ease, as it is a plastic.

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