Polycarbonate (PC)

About

Polycarbonate (PC) is a versatile thermoplastic material renowned for its exceptional strength, impact resistance, and transparency. It is widely used in applications that require durability and resilience, such as automotive components, safety gear, and optical devices. Polycarbonate has a density of approximately 1.20–1.22 g/cm³ and a refractive index of 1.584–1.586, making it an excellent choice for transparent parts. Its high glass transition temperature of about 147°C allows it to maintain structural integrity in high-temperature environments. Polycarbonate is also notable for its ease of fabrication, as it can be molded, extruded, and thermoformed into complex shapes. However, it has low scratch resistance, necessitating coatings for some applications. Polycarbonate is hygroscopic, requiring careful storage to prevent moisture absorption. Its applications span various industries, including electronics, construction, and aerospace, where its lightweight nature and resistance to UV radiation are particularly valuable. Overall, polycarbonate's unique blend of mechanical and optical properties makes it a preferred material for demanding applications.