Polycarbonate is an engineering thermoplastic with outstanding impact resistance, heat resistance, and transparency. It is light in weight and 250 times stronger than standard glass and therefore used for widespread building and construction applications.
Image Credits: Philippe Ruault
The polycarbonate most used in construction is manufactured by condensation polymerization between bisphenol A and carbonyl chloride or diphenyl carbonate. It is used for windows, skylights, wall panels, roof domes, and enclosing components for LED lights.
This article discusses the various benefits of polycarbonate that make it a popular choice in the construction industry.
1. Polycarbonates are Easy to Bend
Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic, and hence it can be heated, cooled, or reheated into a variety of shapes and structures without any degrading effects.Â
2. Polycarbonates are Recyclable
Polycarbonate units are 100% recyclable, as they can be reheated and shaped into a new form without any distress to the material.
3. Polycarbonate is Lightweight
Polycarbonate possesses a density of 1299 kg/m3(the density of glass is 2800 kg/m3), which is around twice as light as standard glass. This property makes it very easy to work with as the overall dead weight on the structure is reduced.
4. Polycarbonates are Stronger than Glass
Polycarbonate is up to 250 times stronger than glass, giving them high resistance to impact and shocks. It has a tensile strength of between 55 and 75 MPa.
The main source of polycarbonate strength is its strong chemical structure. The molecules possess stronger bonds that impart strength to the material to withstand a range of forces and impacts.
5. Polycarbonate is a Good Insulator
Polycarbonate is a good insulator for both sound and heat. Polycarbonate structures keep the interior of the building warm during winters and cool during summers. This property reduces the need for additional equipment and related costs to alter the temperature within the building space.Â
In addition to heat, it is also a good insulator of sound. It helps to make the indoors noise-free and peaceful.
6. Polycarbonate Transmits Light
Polycarbonate material transmits the same amount of light as glass but is greater than Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP). It can be transparent like glass and can be used as an alternative to glass construction.
Polycarbonates are now treated with UV protection to protect them from UV radiation, which would increase the durability of the material.
7. Polycarbonate is Easy to Process
Polycarbonate can be sawn, milled, engraved, drilled, bent, glued, and polished similar to acrylic sheets, with no risk of breakage.
Compared to glass, polycarbonates do not produce any harmful or toxic fumes while drilling and do not pose any threat to their surroundings.Â
Polycarbonate materials are extremely easy and safe to use, hence popular among builders and construction workers. They are available in various sizes, colors, and thicknesses, providing several options as per the design requirements.
FAQs
Polycarbonate is an engineering thermoplastic with outstanding impact resistance, heat resistance, and transparency. It is light in weight and 250 times stronger than standard glass and therefore used for widespread building and construction applications.
The main advantages of polycarbonates are:
1. Polycarbonates are easy to bend.
2. Polycarbonates are Recyclable
3. Polycarbonate is Lightweight
4. Polycarbonates are Stronger than Glass
5. Polycarbonate is a Good Insulator
6. Polycarbonate Transmits Light
7. Polycarbonate is Easy to Process
Compared to glass, polycarbonates do not produce any harmful or toxic fumes while drilling and do not pose any threat to their surroundings. Hence they are extremely easy and safe to use.
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