Polycarbonate sheeting is a high-performance material renowned for its unbeatable strength, versatility, and transparency. Known for its resilience and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, polycarbonate has found a multitude of applications, especially where durability and safety are paramount. A testament to its strength, polycarbonate can withstand substantial impact, boasting up to 200 times the strength of glass while maintaining only half of the weight. This striking attribute makes it the go-to material in environments where both durability and safety are paramount. From industrial machinery guards to bulletproof windows, polycarbonate sheeting rises to the challenge.
The Genesis of Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate was first discovered in the mid-20th century by two separate research teams, one working for American firm GE Plastics and the other for the German company Bayer AG. Recognizing the enormous potential of this novel material, both companies quickly moved towards commercial production. Today, polycarbonate is among the most widely used materials worldwide, thanks to its unique combination of strength, flexibility, and transparency.
Manufacturing Polycarbonate
The manufacture of polycarbonate predominantly involves a reaction between bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene COCl2. The process, known as condensation polymerization, yields a long-chain polymer – polycarbonate.
While most manufacturers use this traditional method, alternative, more eco-friendly production methods are being explored. One such method replaces phosgene with CO2, drastically reducing the environmental impact of polycarbonate production.
Salient Properties of Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate boasts several remarkable properties that account for its widespread use. The material exhibits extraordinary impact resistance, up to 200 times greater than glass. This robustness, coupled with its high transparency, makes it an ideal alternative to glass in many applications.
Polycarbonate is lightweight, flame-resistant, and offers excellent dimensional stability. It is also highly resilient to temperature fluctuations, remaining stable under conditions ranging from -40 to 120 degrees Celsius.
Common Applications of Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate sheeting is employed across numerous sectors, including construction, automotive, electronics, and more. It is used extensively in glazing applications, roof structures, and greenhouses due to its excellent light transmission, UV protection, and impact resistance. In the automotive industry, polycarbonate is preferred for components like headlights, while in electronics, it’s used for making CDs, DVDs, and various smartphone parts.
Care and Maintenance of Polycarbonate
While polycarbonate sheeting is highly durable, it is not entirely scratch-resistant. Hence, it should be cleaned with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. Abrasive cleaners or brushes can damage the surface, reducing its optical clarity. Additionally, it’s crucial to use compatible substances when sealing or bonding polycarbonate to prevent discoloration or damage.
Future Trends and Innovations in Polycarbonate
As sustainability becomes an increasing concern, efforts are being made to recycle polycarbonate and reduce its environmental footprint. Innovations include bio-based polycarbonates and new recycling methods that convert polycarbonate back to its monomers, ready for reuse. Advancements in polycarbonate technology are leading to the development of smart windows and displays, marking the beginning of a new era for this versatile material. Polycarbonate sheeting is an exceptional material that offers a remarkable balance of strength, flexibility, and clarity. As we move forward, we can anticipate further innovations and wider applications of this outstanding material. Whether you’re undertaking a construction project, designing a vehicle, or looking to invest in sustainable materials, polycarbonate sheeting offers a robust and reliable solution.
Take a look at our range of polycarbonate sheeting here or get in touch with us for more information.
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Free Cutting Service
1 x Free Cut - per line item purchased - receive the item at the exact length required for the job
Folding Service
We are able to offer our Aluminium Sheets & Chequer Plates and Stainless Steel Sheets folded to the customers specifications
Excellent service and communication. The aluminium channel lengths were cut perfectly and delivered as promised. A pleasure to do business with 1st Choice Metals
I've used this company a few times now and have not been disappointed with the service. Ordering is easy, and they accept small orders, a plus point. Delivery is fast, reasonably priced. The items are well packaged. I shall continue to use this company and would recommend them to anyone looking for good service and decent pricing.
Needed some aluminium profiles for a project. Used 1st choice metals website to order, easy to use and delivered speedily. We'll packaged too. Will certainly use again for upcoming projects.
Great service, speedy delivery and value for money for 1 metre of 12.7mm brass round tube. This type of tube is a staple product for our business "George Juniper" and this is the first time we have used 1st Choice Metals Ltd. We will definitely be back for more of their products.
Aluminium plate was cut perfectly to the size I ordered Well packaged and delivered when they said it would be First class service Will be ordering again from them for sure
!st Choice Metals did exactly what they promised and the product arrived well wrapped and to exactly the right size. Unfortunately, although it was posted on time for 24 hour delivery the Royal Mail did not deliver it for 2 days. Disappointing, but I guess sending it by courier would have cost more.
Ordering on the website was easy, great you can get material cut to size and quick delivery. Everything arrived as ordered and even when we made an error they were quick to support returning the items. Couldn't fault them and since first order we have ordered more. Such a great company to do business with. Any questions just ask them as easy to talk with.
Excellent service and perfect size. I was able to bend to fit my campervan edge. Used u trim to edge it. Will definitely use this company again! Much cheaper than I expected with really quick despatch and delivery.
Easy to use website and telephone help if you need it. 1st Choice have a very wide range of sizes, complete with "cut to size" options. My free delivery order was shipped same day and arrived as promised. 1st Choice every time for me.
Have been using this service for hobby metals for many years, although only small orders I have always had a 5 star service. Allways my go to site for metal, amazing stock list. Friendly and helpful always. Thank you
Truly excellent service for such a small job! I needed some small rectangular aluminium sheets made up to use as Tiller Hoods to fix the tiller to the rudder for a Mirror Dinghy! The 1mm thick 200mm x 100mm sheets were just £1.07 each excluding vat and as the postage was 3x that amount I decided to order 10 for future projects! 1st Choice Metals provided a superb very cost effective service and cut the sheets with quick delivery. I am truly delighted with them.
Easy to navigate website and hassle free purchase. Excellent customer service when item delivered was damaged by delivery service, replaced immediately without fuss. I hope they got compensation from courier.
Fast and friendly staff, use them for materials for work and never had a problem with supply. The cutting service is a big help too, I can just order what i need, pick it up and fit, no faffing about.
I bought a plate of brass 3mm thick to be used on a drawing board. It was dispatched very quickly and packaged against a wooden board in order that it didn’t get damaged. Brilliant service, thank you.
