Polycarbonate plastic is a hard and rigid, but very impact resistant thermoplastic. Polycarbonate plastic has very high impact strength, which is retains even at low temperatures down to -40ºC. However, it is sensitive to incipient fractures and microfissures, as well as scratches. PC has good electrical characteristics and good dimension stability. Untreated, the plastic is clear and colourless. Moisture uptake is low and weather durability is good. However, elevated temperatures (60-70ºC or higher) combined with moisture can cause some brittleness. It has relatively good chemical resistance, although it is corroded by strong acids and bases, aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and methanol. Compounds of PC and ABS are available as polymer alloys.
Advantages:
- Extremely high impact strength, even at low temperatures
- Can be obtained glass clear
- Dimension-stable material
- Can be reinforced (e.g. with fibre glass)
- Resistant to weak acids, aliphatic hydrocarbons, paraffin, alcohols (except methanol), animal and vegetable oils and fats
- Good outdoor durability
Limitations:
- Cannot be used in warm water over 60ºC (continuously)
- Poor scratch resistance
- Corroded by oxidizing acids, bases, ammoniac, methanol, aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons
- Sensitive to incipient fractures and microfissure formation
Abbreviations:
PC
Common applications:
Pump wheel, propellers, protective helmets, vandal-proofing window panes and glass for outdoor fixtures, protective glass for tail lights on cars, film cassettes, magnet valves, high voltage fixtures, hair dryers, contact lenses, relays, etc.