Acrylic is a transparent thermoplastic often used as a shatter-proof alternative to glass. Acrylic is also know by the chemical name poly (methyl methacrylate). There are two basic types of acrylic: cast and extruded. Cast acrylic is made by casting the poly (methyl methacrylate) resin into a mold or onto a moving steel belt to form sheets. Cast acrylic is ideal for laser engraving because it creates a frosted surface. Common trade names for cast acrylic are Lucite^™, Acrylite^™, Shinkolite^™A and Hesa^™-Glas. Extruded acrylic is made by forcing the poly(methyl methacrylate) resin between a set of steel dies to form a continuous sheet, which is then cut into individual sheets. Extruded acrylic is ideal for laser cutting because it forms a flame polished edge during the laser cutting process. Common trade names for extruded acrylic are Deglas^™, Homalite^™, Optix^™FG and Solatuf^™.