Plastic Properties of Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate (PC) is a linear polycarbonic acid ester prepared from a dihydric phenol. Polycarbonate possesses extraordinarily good dimensional stability with a high impact strength which is maintained over a wide temperature range. This makes PC ideal for the manufacture of laboratory safety shields, vacuum desiccators and centrifuge tubes. Polycarbonate may be autoclaved (maximum continuous working temperature 130° Celsius, and 140° Celsius for short periods), but some loss in mechanical strength occurs on repeated autoclaving and the equipment should not then be used for vacuum applications. The carbonate linkages in the chain make the material subject to reaction with a variety of concentrated acids and bases and it is soluble in various organic solvents.

Safety shield fabricated from 1/4″ thick polycarbonate will withstand temperatures up to 130°C and shields against UV.

PC Resistance: Excellent resistance (no attack) to dilute acids and mineral oils. Good resistance (minor attack) to Alcohols and vegetable oils. Limited resistance (moderate attack and suitable for short term use only) to Aldehydes. Poor resistance (not recommended for use) with Concentrated Acids, Bases, Esters, Aliphatic Hydrocarbons, Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Halogenated Hydrocarbons, Ketones and Oxidizing Agents.

Polycarbonate Quick Facts:

Maximum Temperature: 266°F 130°C

Minimum Temperature: 275°F -135°C

Autoclavable: Yes

Melting Point: 300°F 149°C

Tensile Strength: 10,000 psi

Hardness: R75

UV Resistance: Good

Clear

Rigid

Specific Gravity: 1.20

Polycarbonate Fabrication: Polycarbonate is one of the toughest transparent sheets available, about 300 times stronger than single-strength glass. Perfect for guards and glazing. Polycarb machines well and brake forms cold. Can be joined mechanically, solvent bonded, and welded with lots of practice. Typical uses include windows, machine guards, and demonstration shields. Polycarb is also UV resistant and a better thermal insulator than glass.