When choosing a display case for LEGO® models and other collectibles, most collectors first consider the design, size, and transparency.
But for long-term display, the material itself is just as important.
Acrylic panels are the main barrier between a collectible and its surrounding environment. In addition to providing clear visibility, the material can also influence how much ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaches the model.
At ICUANUTY, the UV-stabilized acrylic sheet used in our display cases was tested by SGS to provide measurable data on its UV transmittance performance.
Why UV Performance Matters for Collectible Display Cases
Long-term UV exposure can be an important consideration for collectibles with colorful bricks, printed elements, decorative details, and surface finishes.
A good display material should therefore balance two key requirements:
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Clear visibility
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Reduced UV exposure
This is why UV transmittance is an important factor when evaluating acrylic for collectible display applications.
SGS-Tested UV-Stabilized Acrylic Material
The acrylic sheet used in our display cases was tested by SGS, an internationally recognized testing, inspection, and certification organization.
According to the SGS test report:
| Test Information | Result / Details |
| Sample Name | UV-stabilized Acrylic Sheet |
| Test Item | Transmittance |
| Test Method | ASTM E903-20 |
| Tested Wavelength Range | 200–400 nm |
| UV Transmittance | 5.08% |
The key result is 5.08% UV transmittance across the tested 200–400 nm wavelength range.
In simple terms, UV transmittance measures how much ultraviolet radiation passes through the material. A lower value means less UV radiation passes through the tested acrylic sheet.
For collectors, this means the acrylic provides an additional barrier that helps reduce UV exposure reaching the displayed model.
The test demonstrates the UV transmittance performance of the tested material, but it does not guarantee that collectibles will never fade or age. Display location, exposure time, temperature, and lighting conditions also matter.
UV-Stabilized Acrylic vs. Standard Clear Acrylic
Not all transparent acrylic materials offer the same UV performance.
Standard clear acrylic is often selected mainly for transparency and general display use, while UV-stabilized acrylic is designed with UV performance as an additional material consideration.
| Standard Clear Acrylic | SGS-Tested UV-Stabilized Acrylic | |
| Transparency | Clear viewing | Clear viewing |
| UV Performance | Depends on material specification | Measured UV transmittance |
| Verified Test Data | Not always available | 5.08% at 200–400 nm |
| Test Standard | Varies | ASTM E903-20 |
| Application | General display | Long-term collectible display considerations |
The key advantage is not simply the term “UV resistant,” but that the tested material has measurable laboratory data supporting its UV performance.
More Than UV Protection
UV performance is only one part of a good collectible display case.
A premium acrylic display case should also provide:
High Transparency
Clear acrylic should allow the model's colors, structure, and details to remain visible without distracting from the collection.
Dust Protection
An enclosed structure helps reduce direct exposure to airborne dust, especially for detailed LEGO® models with small gaps and mechanical elements.
Proper Fit
Model-specific sizing provides enough clearance around the collectible while avoiding excessive empty space.
Structural Stability
The acrylic panels, connections, and base should work together to provide a stable and reliable display structure.
What Collectors Should Look for
When comparing acrylic display cases, it is worth looking beyond appearance and price.
Consider whether:
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The material includes UV performance considerations
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Independent test data is available
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The wavelength range and test method are clearly stated
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The case provides dust protection
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The dimensions properly fit the model
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The acrylic maintains clear visibility
These factors help distinguish a simple transparent enclosure from a display solution designed for long-term collecting.
Our Approach to Collectible Display Materials
At ICUANUTY, we believe the display should protect the collection without taking attention away from it.
That is why material performance is considered alongside transparency, structural design, model fit, and overall presentation.
The SGS-tested UV-stabilized acrylic material provides measurable UV transmittance data—5.08% across the tested 200–400 nm range under ASTM E903-20—giving collectors a clearer understanding of one of the materials used in their display environment.
For us, premium display design is not simply about making a case look clear.
It is about understanding the material behind the case.
Final Thoughts
A collectible display case may be used for years, so material quality matters.
The SGS-tested UV-stabilized acrylic sheet used in our display cases achieved 5.08% UV transmittance within the tested 200–400 nm range under ASTM E903-20.
For collectors, this provides measurable information about the material behind the display—not just a general marketing claim.
At ICUANUTY, our goal is simple: provide clear, reliable display solutions that help protect the collection while keeping the collectible itself at the center of attention.