Polycarbonate Sheets – General Information
Polycarbonate is a material used in the construction industry as a glass substitute, with a very wide range of applications. Being made from thermoplastic composites, one of its main characteristics is a very high degree of flexibility and impact resistance – much greater than acrylic or plexiglass. Polycarbonate is generally delivered in the form of sheets of various thicknesses (measured in millimeters) and colors.
This material can be used as an alternative to glass in doors and windows and also as a solution for closing or covering shower cabins, swimming pools, balconies, and greenhouses. Spaces where sports are practiced, whether stadiums or indoor halls, use polycarbonate to create protective panels for spectators.
The physical and mechanical characteristics of this material offer a wide range of options to architects, designers, and builders regarding usage methods. It can be fixed with screws and placed on special support structures created to hold large sheets. It can be combined with other materials using epoxy or silicone sealant and can even be thermally welded.
One of the main advantages of this type of material is the strength-to-weight ratio. Compared to glass, polycarbonate sheets are very lightweight, yet very resistant to impact, breakage, and damage. This impact resistance makes polycarbonate much safer than glass, which can cause injuries if broken. Polycarbonate also has sound insulation properties and can significantly contribute to controlling UV ray infiltration. Its flexibility allows each sheet to be shaped into the desired form.
However, exposure of the sheets to high temperatures must be treated with great care, as polycarbonate can deteriorate and lose its properties. Like other plastic composite products, surface scratches can appear on polycarbonate sheets due to various factors (improper transportation, impact, friction, etc.). Scratches can be mitigated or even removed using cleaning products or special solutions, but there are no complete guarantees in this regard, as some scratches may remain permanent. Repeated friction on the sheet can cause the material to become opaque over time, reducing visibility and light transmission.
If you wish to use polycarbonate sheets, you should also know that in the food industry there are certain limitations regarding this product due to its bisphenol A content. Therefore, we do not recommend applications where the sheet comes into prolonged contact with food products.
(Source: Wisegeek.com)
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