Polycarbonate

What is PC

Polycarbonates (PC) are polyesters derived from carbonic acid and are one of the important engineering plastics. Polycarbonate is a high performance thermoplastic with low specific gravity. In addition to being an important engineering plastic with its high impact resistance, low moisture absorption rate, good thermal insulation, heat stability and oxidative stability in the melt state, it has also taken its place among commercial polymers thanks to its easy processability.

Features

  • Wide range of thermal/mechanical properties
  • Impact strength
  • Transparency
  • Optical properties
  • Surface view
  • Compliance with food regulations
  • Stability of dimensions
  • Bright colors

Processing Techniques

Polycarbonate is converted from prills or pellets into a form suitable for the desired use. Polycarbonate is melted and pressure poured into a mold, shaping it into the desired shape depending on the use. This process is repeated thousands of times for a particular part, such as a mobile phone case. This part is then sent to the manufacturer, who usually assembles the finished product. The product is produced from polycarbonate after two main processes:

Extrusion:
The molten polymer takes its final shape by being continuously pressed through a mouth called a “mold”. The melt poured into the mold cools and solidifies in a short time, keeping the mold shape. As a result of this process, pipes, profiles or sheets of unlimited length can be produced.

Injection molding:
The hot polymer is pressed into a mold. The mold is cooled and the hot polymer solidifies, taking the shape of the mold. This process results in single-purpose end products such as containers, plates, bottles and many other applications.

Polycarbonate, a superior engineering plastic thanks to its excellent mechanical, physical properties and superior processability, is the material of choice in many high-quality and durable applications. With this combination of features, designers gain extensive design freedom.

Usage areas

  • Automotive: headlights, safety windows
  • Sheet + profile: Roof & windows, damage-resistant applications
  • Electrical: plugs, sockets, meters, safety, security
  • Household items: blender bowls, microwave doors
  • Consumer goods and household supplies: chocolate molds
  • Safety devices: face masks, hard hats
  • Medical: dialysis device enclosures
  • Lighting: globes, diffusers, traffic lights
  • Compact Discs: CD-ROM, CD-recordable, DVD