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Characteristics of Polycarbonate (PC) Plastic
| Clarity | Transparent | Impact Resistant | Excellent |
| Moisture Barrier | Good | Heat Resistance | Good |
| Oxygen Barrier | Fair | Cold Resistance | Good |
| Acid Resistance | Fair | Sunlight Resistance | Fair |
| Grease & Oil Resistance | Fair - Good | Specific Gravity | 1.2 |
| Maximum Utilization Temp. | 250°F | Tensile Strength | 10,000 psi |
| Minimum Utilization Temp. | -40°F | Melting Point | 310°F |
| Stiffness | Rigid |
Other Characteristics of PC:
PC (Polycarbonate) is a linear polycarbonic acid ester prepared from a dihydric phenol. PC has excellent optical clarity and high impact resistance. It can be used over a wide range of temperatures. It is dimensionally stable and tough. It can be used for a number of applications ranging from laboratory supply to industrial and even household.
Chemical Resistance:
| Acids – Dilute | Poor |
| Acids – Concentrated | Good |
| Alcohols | Good |
| Aldehydes | Low |
| Bases | Poor |
| Esters | Poor |
| Hydrocarbons, Aliphatic | Poor |
| Hydrocarbons, Aromatics | Poor |
| Hydrocarbons, Halogenated | Poor |
| Ketones | Poor |
| Oils, Minerals | Excellent |
| Oil, Vegetable | Good |
PC for Laboratories:
PC is good choice for laboratories because of its optical clarity, good impact resistance and higher working temperatures. It can be autoclaved, however after repeated autoclaving there may be a loss of mechanical strength. If this occurs, the PC item should no longer be used for vacuum applications.
Recycling:
PC does not have it's own recycling code symbol. However, PC can be recycled into many other products. Recycled PC can be used for decorative blocks and windows, as will as road marking posts. For more information regarding PC recycling see the Plastic Container Recycling Page.
PC's Role in History:
PC was first discovered in the 1950s. It was initially used for electrical and electronic applications. In the 1980s when audio CDs were first developed, PC was used and still is today. Starting in the late 1980s, automobile headlights lenses became made of PC and now most cars have PC headlight lenses.
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*Note: Always be sure to test your products with the material/container chosen. Any information presented is for reference only, be sure to verify and test.