Polycarbonates are thermoplastics known for toughness and transparency and they offer very high impact strength and elasticity. They are easily worked, molded, and thermoformed; as such, these plastics are very widely used in modern manufacturing.
This polymer is highly transparent to visible light and has better light transmission characteristics than many kinds of glass. CR-39 is a specific polycarbonate material with good optical and mechanical properties, frequently used for eyeglass lenses.
View the Polycarbonate Materials Properties Chart
Material Highlights:
- High impact strength
- Excellent strength retention at elevated temperatures
- High tensile, shear, and flexural strength
- High modulus of elasticity
- Low deformation under load
- Excellent creep and cold flow resistance
- Low coefficient of thermal expansion
- Good electrical insulation properties
- Easy to fabricate & machine
- Better light transmission than glass
Manufacturing Capabilities:
- Tanks
- Machine guards
- Fittings
- Instrument covers
- Equipment parts
- Windows
- Medical tubing
- Lenses for light fixtures
- Impact resistant windows
- Security windows for banks
- CDs and DVDs
- Automotive headlamp lenses
- Nalgene bottles
- Animal enclosures