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Polycarbonate (PC) is a thermoplastic polymer renowned for its superior physical and chemical properties, making it widely used in the field of engineering. From eyewear to medical devices and automotive parts, the applications of PC are virtually ubiquitous.
Chemical Properties of Polycarbonate: PC comprises carbonate groups and is known for its remarkable strength and toughness. It is not only transparent but also easy to process and shape. The production of PC involves the polymerization of bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene (COCl2). This material melts at 260-320°C and functions well within a broad temperature range.
Types of Polycarbonate: The market offers a variety of PC types, including clear GP sheets designed for industrial protection and vandalism resistance, clear SL sheets with enhanced UV resistance, and mirror PC sheets ideal for the automotive and security industries.
Applications of Polycarbonate: Due to its strength and durability, polycarbonate has a clear advantage in areas where light transmission is needed and the risk of impact is high. It is used in automotive headlights, security windows, motorcycle windshields, prescription lenses, safety glasses, machine guards, skylights, and streetlights.
Advantages of Polycarbonate: PC is fire-resistant, sustainable, vandal-proof, insulating, and easy to process. It is twice as light as standard glass, making it very easy to work with, especially for projects such as installing a patio canopy.
Differences Between Polycarbonate and Acrylic: While acrylic has about 17 times the impact resistance of polycarbonate, PC is stronger, with 250 times the impact resistance of standard glass. PC offers more resilience than acrylic and is ideal for demanding applications like bullet-resistant windows. Acrylic has a high-gloss finish and is more transparent, making it suitable for display cases. However, acrylic is more prone to fracturing, whereas polycarbonate is more resistant to scratches.
Conclusion: Polycarbonate is a multifunctional engineering plastic with a wide range of uses and significant advantages. Unofactory offers polycarbonate in various forms, including sheets, rods, and 3D printing services. For a quote on polycarbonate products, please contact us.
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