The characteristics of polycarbonate are quite like those of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA; acrylic), but transparency, excellent toughness, thermal stability and a very good dimensional stability make polycarbonate one of the most widely used engineering thermoplastics in applications demanding high performance properties. This amorphous thermoplastic is highly transparent to visible light - it rates highest among transparent, rigid thermoplastics - and has better light transmission characteristics than many kinds of glass. Polycarbonate is 250 times the impact strength of float glass and 30 times that of acrylic.
Optical grade polycarbonate is optically clear, providing total luminous transmittance, and very low haze factor. The high impact strength makes it resistant to repeated blows, shattering, and spalling, thus well matched for demanding applications requiring low distortion with optimal visual quality.
A large number of end use applications, i.e.,special grades that provide specific properties or processing characteristics (weatherability,abrasion/ scratch resistance, heat/flame retardance, UV stability, and static dissipation) for polycarbonate are possible by tailoring grades with specific molecular properties and additives during its manufacture. Contact an Emco Industrial Plastics representative who can help you choose the correct material to meet the needs of your applications