PC (Polycarbonaat)

PC (Polycarbonate)

Plastic

Polycarbonate (PC) is an extremely impact-resistant, transparent plastic that is up to 250 times stronger than glass. The material combines optical clarity with high thermal stability and is excellent for processing. PC is flame-retardant, self-extinguishing, and resistant to impact even at low temperatures. It is widely used as a safe alternative to glass in both technical and architectural applications.
Well-known trade names for polycarbonate include Lexan®, Makrolon®, and Palram®. These grades are used worldwide in sectors where safety, impact resistance, and transparency come together.

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Properties of polycarbonate

Very high impact resistance, up to 250x stronger than glass
High light transmission (~88%), clear and transparent
Self-extinguishing and flame-retardant (UL94 V-2 to V-0)
Resistant to continuous temperatures up to 120 °C
Dimensionally stable and easy to machine
Cold bendable without breaking
Impact resistant even at -40 °C
Good electrical insulator
Available in clear, opal, and UV-stabilized variants

Thanks to this unique combination of strength, transparency, and heat resistance, PC is a preferred material in mechanical engineering, safety applications, and the construction sector.

Datasheet Title

Technical properties of PC (Polycarbonate)

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Product information and operations

Thickness	Dimensions	Color
0.75 mm	1250x2050 mm	Clear
1 mm	2050x1250 mm	Clear
1.5 mm	2050x1250 mm	Clear
2 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear Opal
3 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear Opal Opal Smoke Grey
4 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear Opal Opal Smoke Grey
5 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear Opal Smoke Grey
6 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear Opal Smoke Grey Anti-Static
8 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear Opal Anti-Static
10 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear
12 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear
15 mm	3050x2050 mm	Clear

Technical properties

General

Specific Gravity 1,2 g/cm³

Moisture Absorption under Standard Climate 0,2 %

Flammability B1

Specific Heat Capacity 1,17 kj/Kg°C

Temperature Range

Minimum Service Temperature -30°C

Maximum Service Temperature +120°C

Mechanical

Tensile Strength 70 N/mm

Elongation at Break 100 %

E-Modulus 2500 N/mm²

Flexural Strength 70 N/mm²

Impact Strength 40 Charpy

Shore or Ball Indentation Hardness 80 Shore °D

Coefficient of Friction 0,39

Electrical

Relative Permittivity (Dielectric Constant) 3,0 / 100 Hz

Dielectric Loss Factor 0,0007 tan(..x10⁻³)

Volume Resistivity 10 Ω cm

Surface Resistivity 10 Ω

Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) 260/300 KC

Dielectric Strength 38 kV/mm

Thermal

Crystalline Melting Point 230 °C

Thermal Conductivity 0,21 W/m°C

Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion 0,07 mm/m°C

Continuous Service Temperature (unloaded) -30 / 120 °C

Maximum Short-Term Service Temperature 150 °C

Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) 138 °C

Applications of PC (Polycarbonate)

Machine guards and safety covers

Impact-resistant glazing and windows (e.g., bus shelters, showcases)

Transparent protective panels and splash guards

Lampshades and lighting fixtures

Housings and covers for electronic devices

Shock-resistant parts in automotive and aerospace

Façade panels and roof glazings (UV-stabilized)

Medical applications and laboratory enclosures

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Frequently Asked Questions about PC (Polycarbonate)

Is polycarbonate impact-resistant?

Yes, PC is one of the toughest plastics and won’t shatter on impact, making it ideal for safety applications.

Can polycarbonate be laser-cut?

Fine laser cutting is possible with specialized equipment, but milling is more common for thicker sheets and tight tolerances.

Is polycarbonate suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, provided you choose UV-stabilized grades. Standard PC will yellow under prolonged UV exposure.

Is polycarbonate better than plexiglass (PMMA)?

PC is much more impact-resistant and better at heat resistance, whereas PMMA is clearer and more scratch-resistant.

Can polycarbonate be cold-bent?

Yes, PC can be bent without preheating, making it ideal for applications requiring flexibility in shape.

Is polycarbonate flame-retardant?

Yes, polycarbonate has inherent flame-retardant properties and is available in various fire-ratings (e.g., UL94 V-0).

How machinable is polycarbonate?

PC machines well—milling, sawing, drilling, and bending are straightforward. Bonding and polishing require experience to avoid stress cracking.

Is polycarbonate food-safe?

Some grades are food-safe. Always request the appropriate certification for direct food contact applications.

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Material HB Title

PC (Polycarbonate) LASER CUTTING OR MILLING

PC (Polycarbonate)

Properties of polycarbonate