Polycarbonate is a transparent, high-performance thermoplastic known for its extreme impact resistance, optical clarity, and thermal stability. In industrial sheet form, it’s commonly used for safety glazing, protective machine guards, window panels, and enclosures where visibility and toughness are critical.
Key Properties
- Density: ~1.2 g/cm³
- Working Temperature: -40°C to +115°C continuous use
- Impact Resistance: 250x stronger than glass (virtually unbreakable)
- Light Transmission: ~88–90% (for clear sheet)
- Tensile Strength: ~9,000 psi
- Thermal Expansion: ~6.5 × 10⁻⁵ in/in/°F
- UV Resistance: Good with UV-coated grades (otherwise yellows over time)
Common Applications
- Machine guarding and safety shields
- Equipment covers and viewing windows
- Transparent partitions and sneeze guards
- Security glazing for buildings and vehicles
- Greenhouse and skylight panels (multiwall polycarbonate)
- Light diffusers and protective lenses
- Electrical panel covers and enclosure windows
Benefits
- Exceptional Impact Resistance: Nearly unbreakable; ideal for high-risk environments
- Optical Clarity: Excellent visibility in safety and display applications
- Thermoformable: Can be heated and shaped without cracking
- Good Flame Resistance: UL 94 V-0 rated in many grades
- Electrical Insulator: Suitable for enclosures and covers
- Available in Various Grades: UV-stabilized, anti-static, abrasion-resistant, FDA, and bullet-resistant types