Time to read: 6 min
Among the vast array of plastic materials, polycarbonate and acrylic stand out in the automotive, consumer goods, and construction industries due to their distinct physical and chemical characteristics. While they may appear similar at first glance, their differences become evident at a deeper chemical level.
Polycarbonate, known for its exceptional strength and heat resistance, has a high melting point of around 295°C and does not easily break or deform under pressure. As an amorphous material, polycarbonate's chemical structure lacks a regular chain-like structure, making it easy to mold and process. Due to its excellent optical properties, polycarbonate is often used as an alternative to silicate glass and is widely applied in bulletproof barriers, safety goggles, and mobile phone cases, among other products.
Acrylic, officially known as polymethyl methacrylate, is another popular plastic used in manufacturing. Like polycarbonate, it is available in various forms, including fiber, solid, glue, or paint. Acrylic is favored for its outstanding transparency and impact resistance, although it only has 17 times the resistance of glass, compared to polycarbonate’s 250-times resistance.
In terms of cost and recyclability, both polycarbonate and acrylic are relatively economical, but acrylic is generally less expensive. However, polycarbonate's higher strength and melting point command a slightly higher price. It's important to note that while both are recyclable, acrylic is not always accepted by all recycling programs.
From an environmental perspective, polycarbonate contains bisphenol A (BPA), which has been found to be harmful and is restricted in many countries. Therefore, when choosing plastic materials, especially for use in home or consumer environments, this factor must be carefully considered.