Polycarbonate Clear Transparent Sheet
- SKU:
- PC183
Description
Polycarbonate, also known as bisphenol A (BPA), is a virtually unbreakable plastic first synthesized by Dr. H. Schnell of Bayer AG, Germany, and Dr. Daniel W. Fox of General Electric Company, USA in 1953. It is used in various applications, including eyewear lenses, protective equipment like bullet-proof glass, medical devices, and as a building material in greenhouses.
This Polycarbonate Clear Transparent Sheet is a polished, UV stabilized product featuring outstanding impact strength and superior dimensional stability. It is a versatile, cost-effective solution for a wide range of industrial and domestic applications, including crafts, window replacements, photo framing, glazing, design, structural applications, and fabricated components.
Substrate Recommendations
Polycarbonate is recommended for use in applications requiring high impact strength, clarity, and superior dimensional stability. It is suitable for use in glazing applications, digital media, outdoor lighting fixtures, and more. This product is particularly effective in environments where glass might break or shatter.
Bonding Recommendations
The Polycarbonate Clear Transparent Sheet is ideal for both industrial and domestic applications. It can be easily cut, drilled, and shaped using standard tools, making it perfect for crafts, window replacements, photo framing, and more. It can also be used for structural applications, providing both strength and transparency.
Additional Information
This product is not for general consumer use. It is intended for professional use only. Plastic-Craft Products reserves the right to substitute a similar quantity of a different product if necessary.
This product may not be shipped into certain counties with restrictions. Please verify your shipping location prior to ordering.
Technical Properties
Material Properties
Polycarbonate is a tough, dimensionally stable, transparent thermoplastic that maintains its properties over a wide temperature range from -40°F to 280°F. It has the highest impact resistance of any thermoplastic, with transparency up to 2 inches in special grades.
Key Attributes
- High impact resistance
- Optical transparency
- Excellent creep resistance
- Wide temperature range
- High dimensional stability
- Good electrical characteristics
- Self-extinguishing behavior
Applications
- Medical components
- Lenses
- Equipment housings
- Electronics
- Defense
- Automotive
- Lighting fixtures
- Vehicle windows
- Structural parts
- Nameplates and bezels
Detailed Polycarbonate Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 9,500 psi |
| Impact Strength | 13 ft-lb/in (Notched Izod) |
| Density | 0.043 lb/in³ |
| Water Absorption | 0.12% |
| Flexural Strength | 15,000 psi |
| Compressive Strength | 12,000 psi |
| Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion | 3.9 × 10–5 in./in./°F |
| Heat Deflection Temperature | 270°F (at 264 psi) |
| Dielectric Strength | 390 V/mil |
| Flammability Rating | H-B (V-0 at 0.45" thickness) |
Installation & Maintenance
Installation
Polycarbonate Clear Transparent Sheets can be cut, drilled, and shaped using standard tools. It is important to ensure that the surfaces are clean and dry before installation. Compatible adhesives and sealants should be used to secure the polycarbonate in place.
Maintenance
Polycarbonate sheets are simple to clean and polish using a clean cloth and appropriate cleaning compounds. Light scratches can be removed with special abrasive compounds designed for polycarbonate.
Safety & Handling
Safety and Environmental Precautions
Polycarbonate is generally safe to handle and use. However, precautions should be taken when cutting or machining the material to avoid inhaling dust or fumes. Always use proper personal protective equipment, including gloves and safety goggles.
First Aid
Inhalation: If dust or fumes are inhaled, move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact: Wash skin with soap and water. If irritation occurs, seek medical attention.
Ingestion: If swallowed, seek medical attention immediately.
Product Comparison
Compare Polycarbonate with Other Materials
| Feature | Polycarbonate | Acrylic | Glass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impact Resistance | 250x stronger than glass | 30x stronger than glass | Breakable |
| Light Transmission | 80-90% | 92% | 88% |
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight | Heavy |
| Temperature Resistance | -40°F to 280°F | -30°F to 170°F | 32°F to 212°F |
| Cost | Moderate | Lower | Higher |
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I clean Polycarbonate sheets?
A: Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the surface.
Q: Can Polycarbonate sheets be cut to custom sizes?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets can be easily cut using standard tools. We also offer custom cutting services.
Q: Is Polycarbonate UV resistant?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets are UV stabilized, making them suitable for outdoor applications.
Q: How does Polycarbonate compare to glass in terms of safety?
A: Polycarbonate is significantly safer than glass due to its high impact resistance. It is 250 times stronger than glass, making it shatter-resistant and ideal for applications where safety is a concern.
Q: Can Polycarbonate sheets be used in extreme temperatures?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets can withstand a wide temperature range from -40°F to 280°F, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications in various climates.
Q: Are Polycarbonate sheets recyclable?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate is a recyclable material. It can be reprocessed and reused, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Q: What are the common applications of Polycarbonate sheets?
A: Polycarbonate sheets are commonly used in glazing, greenhouse panels, protective barriers, machine guards, signage, and more due to their strength, clarity, and durability.
Q: Can Polycarbonate sheets be easily machined?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets can be easily machined using standard tools. They can be cut, drilled, and thermoformed without cracking or breaking.
Q: Does Polycarbonate yellow over time?
A: Polycarbonate sheets are UV stabilized to reduce yellowing over time, making them ideal for long-term outdoor use.
Q: How do Polycarbonate sheets handle chemical exposure?
A: Polycarbonate has good chemical resistance to many substances, but exposure to certain chemicals, such as strong acids and bases, should be avoided to maintain the material's integrity.