POLYCARBONATE SHEET
Polycarbonate (PC) is a transparent thermoplastic with carbonate functional groups. Its high strength makes it resistant to impact and fracture. It is lightweight so an excellent alternative to glass. PC is meltedand forced into a mold with high pressure to give it the desired shape. It is widely used owing to its eco friendly processing and recyclability.
COMMONLY USED AS –
PROPERTIES OF POLYCARBONATE SHEET
TOUGHNESS
Polycarbonate maintains a toughness value between -20°C to 140°C. They are virtually unbreakable.
HIGH IMPACT STRENGTH
PC has a high strength that makes it resistant to impact and fracture. It provides safety and comfort in applications that demand high reliability and performance. The polymer has a density of 1.2 – 1.22
TRANSMITTANCE
PC is an extremely clear plastic that can transmit over 90% of light as good as glass. Polycarbonate sheets are available in a wide range of shades. These sheets can be customizable depending on an end-user application
OPTICAL NATURE
For having an amorphous structure, PC offers excellent optical properties. The refractive index of clear polycarbonate is 1.584
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Good chemical resistance against diluted acids, aliphatic hydrocarbons, and alcohols. It shows moderate resistance against oils and greases. PC is readily attacked by diluted alkalis, aromatic, and halogenated hydrocarbons. Manufacturers recommend cleaning PC using agents which do not affect their chemical nature. It is sensitive to abrasive alkaline cleaners.
HEAT RESISTANCE
Polycarbonates have high heat resistance. They are thermally stable up to 135°C. Further heat resistance can be improved by adding flame retardants without impacting material properties.
LIGHTWEIGHT
This feature allows virtually unlimited possibilities for OEMs to design as compared with glass. The property increases efficiency and makes the installation process easier. It also reduces overall transportation costs.
PROTECTION FROM UV RADIATION
Polycarbonates can be designed to block ultraviolet radiation. They provide 100% protection from harmful UV rays.