Introduction to Polycarbonate
Polycarbonates (PC) are high-molecular weight, amorphous engineering thermoplastics that have exceptionally high impact strength over a wide temperature range. Polycarbonate resins are produced in the U.S. principally by General Electric Co (Lexan) and by Bayer Corp. The Dow Chemical Co. has recently become the third producer of polycarbonate resins.

The resins are available in general-purpose molding and extrusion grades and in several special grades that provide specific properties or processing characteristics. These include flame-retardant formulations, grades that meet FDA regulations for parts used in food-contact and medical applications, blow-molding grades, glass-reinforced grades for applicatons requiring maximum strength and stiffness, and structural-foam grades. Polycarbonate is also available in extruded sheet. The natural resin is water-clear and transparent.

For more information, contact Mike at Ultra Acrylics, Inc.