Polycarbonates are a family of thermoplastic polymers, all of which contain carbonate groups in their chemical structures (hence the name). Polycarbonates are easily molded and machined, making them popular for a broad range of applications, from electronic components to greenhouse windows to cockpit canopies on fighter jets.
The chemical makeup of polycarbonate materials gives them a strong balance of beneficial characteristics. Polycarbonates are typically classified as being between commodity plastics and engineering plastics. Over one billion kilograms of polycarbonate are produced annually.
Advantages of Polycarbonates
- Extremely durable with high impact resistance
- Highly transparent, with better light transmission than many types of glass
- Very good heat resistance
- Good electrical insulation properties
Properties of Polycarbonates
In many cases, polycarbonates are comparable to acrylic resins. However, polycarbonates are stronger and can withstand elevated temperatures for longer periods.
Unlike many thermoplastic materials (including acrylic), polycarbonates can withstand considerable plastic deformation without cracking or breaking—even sharp bends with tight radii can be produced without heating. Therefore, polycarbonates can be formed at room temperature using press brakes and other sheet metal processing machinery.
Glass fiber-reinforced polycarbonates provide increased tensile strength and flexural strength, among other benefits. However, these materials do exhibit lower impact strength and reduced tensile elongation than non-reinforced polycarbonates.