Polycarbonate White Translucent Sheet
- SKU:
- PC204
Description
Polycarbonate, also known as bisphenol A (BPA), is a nearly 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 widely utilized in various sectors, including protective eyewear, bullet-resistant materials, medical devices, and as a construction material in greenhouses.
This Polycarbonate White Translucent Sheet is a polished, UV-resistant product that offers excellent impact strength and remarkable dimensional stability. It is a versatile and cost-efficient choice for a wide array of industrial and home-based projects, including DIY crafts, privacy windows, photo displays, glazing, design work, structural components, and fabricated pieces.
Substrate Suggestions
Polycarbonate is recommended for situations where high impact resistance, light diffusion, and superior dimensional stability are required. It is well-suited for glazing, digital signage, outdoor lighting enclosures, and other applications where light diffusion and durability are essential. This product is particularly advantageous in environments where glass might crack or shatter.
Bonding Guidance
The Polycarbonate White Translucent Sheet is ideal for both industrial and domestic projects. It can be effortlessly cut, drilled, and shaped using standard tools, making it ideal for DIY crafts, privacy windows, photo displays, and other applications where both strength and light diffusion are needed.
Additional Information
This product is designed for professional use and is not intended for general consumer applications. Plastic-Craft Products reserves the right to provide a similar quantity of a comparable product if necessary.
This product cannot be shipped to specific counties with restrictions. Please verify your shipping destination before placing an order.
Technical Properties
Material Characteristics
Polycarbonate is a robust, dimensionally stable, translucent thermoplastic that retains its properties across a broad temperature range from -40°F to 280°F. It has the highest impact resistance of any thermoplastic, with light-diffusing properties up to 2 inches in special grades.
Key Benefits
- High impact resistance
- Light diffusion
- Excellent creep resistance
- Wide temperature range
- Superior dimensional stability
- Good electrical insulating properties
- Self-extinguishing behavior
Applications
- Medical components
- Privacy panels
- Lighting enclosures
- Electronic device housings
- Automotive parts
- Architectural glazing
- Vehicle windows
- Structural components
- Signage and displays
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 White Translucent Sheets can be cut, drilled, and shaped using standard tools. Ensure that the surfaces are clean and dry before installation. Use compatible adhesives and sealants to secure the polycarbonate in place.
Maintenance
Polycarbonate sheets are easy to clean and polish using a clean cloth and suitable cleaning compounds. Light scratches can be removed with special abrasive compounds designed for polycarbonate materials.
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 | Diffused, 70-80% | 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?
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 priority, such as in protective barriers, automotive windows, and security glazing.
Q: Can Polycarbonate sheets be used in extreme temperatures?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets are highly durable and 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, which contributes to environmental sustainability and reduces waste.
Q: What are the common applications of Polycarbonate sheets?
A: Polycarbonate sheets are versatile and commonly used in a variety of applications, including glazing, greenhouse panels, privacy panels, protective barriers, machine guards, signage, and more, due to their strength, light diffusion, 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, making them ideal for custom fabrication and structural applications.
Q: Does Polycarbonate yellow over time?
A: Polycarbonate sheets are UV stabilized to reduce yellowing over time, making them suitable for long-term outdoor use where exposure to sunlight is a factor.
Q: How do Polycarbonate sheets handle chemical exposure?
A: Polycarbonate has good chemical resistance to many substances, but it is advisable to avoid exposure to certain chemicals, such as strong acids and bases, to maintain the material's integrity and appearance.