Also known by its trademark name Lexan, Polycarbonate is a very durable, high impact resistant material. It is clear with characteristics similar to Acrylic (PMMA) but much stronger. It is easy to machine without risk of cracking or breaking. It is a good electrical insulator with better heat resistance than Acrylic and is flame retardant. However it is more expensive than Acrylic and after being machined cannot be polished to as high of a luster or clarity. Polycarbonate when laminated can be used to make bullet-proof glass. Common uses include: electrical and telecommunications hardware, dome lights, safety glasses and automotive headlamp lenses.
- Specific Gravity
- 1.2 g/cc
- Max Operating Temperature
- 250 F / 121 C
- Hardness, Rockwell
- 118
- Heat Deflection Temperature
- 270 F / 132 C
- Tensile Strength
- 9500 psi
- Water Absorption
- 24 hr .12%
- Compressive Strength
- 12,000 psi
- Dielectric Constant
- 3.17
- Flexural Strength
- 15,000 psi
- Flammability
- UL94 HV, VO
- Melting Point
- 425 – 500F
*Values listed are approximate