Polycarbonate properties
Polycarbonate is a tough, transparent engineering thermoplastic with exceptional impact resistance, far higher than glass or acrylic. It is used for safety glazing, machine guards, and impact-critical clear parts.
Mechanical properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength | 9,500 psi (65 MPa) |
| Flexural modulus | 340,000 psi (2.3 GPa) |
| Elongation at break | 110% |
| Hardness | Rockwell M70 |
Physical properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.043 lb/in³ (1200 kg/m³) |
| Softening point | about 150 °C (glass transition) |
Thermal properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Max service temperature | about 120 °C continuous |
| Thermal expansion | 68 µm/m·°C |
| Thermal conductivity | 0.20 W/m·K |
Values are typical for the grade and condition shown. Actual properties vary with temper, heat treatment, and product form, so use these for comparison and preliminary design and confirm against material certificates for final work.
Compare with other materials
See the Material Properties Comparison, Yield Strength, and Density charts.
Typical uses
Polycarbonate is used for safety glazing, machine guards, riot shields, eyewear, and impact-resistant clear parts. Its near-unbreakable toughness combined with transparency makes it the standard where clear, shatterproof material is required.
How it compares
Polycarbonate is vastly more impact resistant than acrylic or glass, though it scratches more easily and is less chemically resistant. It is tougher than most clear plastics but softer surfaced, so it is chosen for impact safety rather than scratch resistance.
FAQ
How impact resistant is polycarbonate?
Extremely. It withstands impacts that would shatter glass or acrylic, which is why it is used for safety glazing, guards, and riot shields.
Does polycarbonate scratch easily?
Yes, its surface is relatively soft, so it scratches more readily than glass or acrylic unless given a hard coating.
Is polycarbonate transparent?
Yes, it is optically clear, combining transparency with extreme toughness, a rare and useful pairing.