Final answer:
A 1:1 polymer to monomer ratio in PMMA creation could result in excessive unreacted monomer that can affect material properties and potentially release harmful substances.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you produce a PMMA acrylic with a polymer : monomer ratio of 1:1, it is likely that the resulting material will have excess monomer that did not react to form the polymer. This can result in a product with poor properties, such as reduced strength, and can potentially release unreacted monomer, which may be harmful if it leaches out or diffuses into the air. PMMA, or polymethyl methacrylate, is a thermoplastic and needs a correct proportion of monomer to polymer for optimal properties. In manufacturing objects, controlling the pressure and temperature during polymerization can alter the molecular weight distribution to better manage the final product's mechanical properties.