The UK market for CR39 and ADC materials is undergoing a significant shift.
With long-established suppliers beginning to exit the market, many businesses are now actively searching for reliable CR39 alternatives, ADC material replacements, and long-term optical plastic solutions that can support both current and future product requirements.
For companies relying on CR39 for optical clarity, protective screens, display windows, and specialist applications, this change raises an important question:
What comes next?
Why CR39 / ADC Supply Is Changing
CR39 (Columbia Resin 39) and ADC (Allyl Diglycol Carbonate) materials have been widely used for decades across industries including:
- Industrial display windows
- Optical sensor lenses and covers
- Instrumentation panels
However, as manufacturing technologies evolve, legacy ADC materials are becoming less common, with fewer suppliers remaining in the UK.
This is creating increased demand for:
- CR39 material suppliers UK.
- ADC sheet alternatives.
- Optical plastic replacements.
- High-performance coated plastics.
The Limitations of Traditional CR39 Materials
While CR39 has historically offered good optical clarity, it also comes with limitations when compared to modern materials:
- Lower impact resistance and increased brittleness.
- Reduced performance in high-wear applications
- Lower chemical resistance in demanding environments
As product expectations increase, many businesses are now looking for more durable, higher-performance alternatives.
Modern materials for CR39 Alternatives
Advances in optical-grade plastics and specialist hard coatings now offer a new generation of materials that can outperform traditional CR39 in many applications.
At Panel Graphic, we support customers transitioning to:
- Optical-grade acrylic and polycarbonate sheets
- Abrasion Resistant hard-coated plastics
- Chemical Resistant coated surfaces
- Anti-Reflective and anti-glare display solutions
- UV-resistant and sunlight-readable materials
These solutions are designed not only to replace CR39, but to enhance performance, durability, and product lifespan.
Benefits of Upgrading to Coated Optical Plastics
Switching from CR39 / ADC materials to modern coated plastics can provide:
Improved durability
Advanced hard coatings significantly increase scratch / abrasion resistance, making them ideal for high-use environments.
Enhanced chemical resistance
Suitable for industrial and technical applications where exposure to chemicals is a concern.
Superior optical performance
High clarity materials with options for anti-glare, reflection control, and improved colour vibrancy.
Greater design flexibility
Compatible with CNC machining, forming, printing, and bonding, enabling more complex and integrated designs.
Future-ready materials
Unlike legacy ADC technology, modern plastics continue to evolve with new coatings and performance enhancements.
Supporting a Smooth Transition from CR39
We understand that for many businesses, the priority is not just finding an alternative; it’s ensuring continuity of supply and minimal disruption.
Our team works closely with customers to:
- Review existing CR39 / ADC specifications
- Recommend suitable alternative materials
- Provide like-for-like or improved performance options
- Supply rapid prototypes and samples
- Support from initial design through to full production
Looking for CR39 Alternatives in the UK?
If your business is currently reviewing CR39 suppliers, ADC material availability, or exploring optical plastic alternatives, now is the time to consider a more future-focused solution.
With decades of experience in optical plastics, coatings, and fabrication, Panel Graphic is well positioned to support customers through this transition.
Speak to Our Technical Team
If you would like support identifying the right alternative to CR39 / ADC materials, our team is ready to help.
We can provide guidance, samples, and practical recommendations to ensure your application continues to perform – and improve.
