The scratch resistance of acrylic transparent boards compared to other transparent materials varies based on their inherent properties and the conditions they are used in. Here's a comparative overview:

Acrylic (Polymethyl Methacrylate - PMMA)
Scratch Resistance: Moderate. Acrylic is softer than glass and polycarbonate, making it more prone to scratches and surface damage.
Advantages: Lightweight, high clarity, and good impact resistance. Easier to machine and fabricate.
Common Uses: Display cases, signage, protective barriers, and glazing.
Polycarbonate (PC)
Scratch Resistance: Better than acrylic but still susceptible to scratching. Polycarbonate is tougher than acrylic but softer than glass.
Advantages: High impact resistance, good clarity, and high strength. Often treated with a scratch-resistant coating to improve durability.
Common Uses: Safety glasses, bullet-resistant windows, machine guards, and electronic display screens.

Glass
Scratch Resistance: High. Glass is more scratch-resistant than both acrylic and polycarbonate.
Advantages: Superior clarity, high scratch resistance, and excellent chemical resistance.
Disadvantages: Heavier and more brittle than acrylic and polycarbonate.
Common Uses: Windows, display screens, mirrors, and architectural applications.
Coated Materials
Acrylic with Hard Coatings: Scratch-resistant coatings can be applied to acrylic to enhance its durability. These coatings can significantly improve the scratch resistance, making it comparable to polycarbonate with similar treatments.
Polycarbonate with Hard Coatings: Often comes with anti-scratch coatings that improve its resistance to surface damage. This makes it suitable for applications requiring higher durability.
Comparative Summary
Acrylic: More prone to scratching compared to polycarbonate and glass. Requires careful handling and may need protective coatings for enhanced durability.
Polycarbonate: Better scratch resistance than acrylic, especially with protective coatings. Offers a good balance of toughness and clarity.
Glass: Superior scratch resistance but lacks the impact resistance of acrylic and polycarbonate. Best for applications where weight and brittleness are not critical issues.
Practical Considerations
Use of Coatings: Both acrylic and polycarbonate can be treated with hard coatings to improve their scratch resistance, making them more suitable for high-traffic or high-contact applications.
Application Environment: The choice between these materials depends on the specific application requirements, including impact resistance, weight, cost, and exposure to scratching agents.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular cleaning with appropriate materials and methods can help maintain the clarity and appearance of acrylic and polycarbonate boards.
In conclusion, while acrylic offers several advantages in terms of weight, clarity, and ease of fabrication, it is more susceptible to scratching compared to polycarbonate and glass. Protective coatings can significantly enhance the scratch resistance of acrylic, making it a more durable option for various applications.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular cleaning with appropriate materials and methods can help maintain the clarity and appearance of acrylic and polycarbonate boards.

While acrylic offers several advantages in terms of weight, clarity, and ease of fabrication, it is more susceptible to scratching compared to polycarbonate and glass. Protective coatings can significantly enhance the scratch resistance of acrylic, making it a more durable option for various applications.