Polycarbonate is a durable material used in an array of plastic products. Because its transparency and transmission of light rivals that of glass, polycarbonate sheets are used in an array of applications to stand in for glass during testing or to replace it entirely in production. You probably use several plastic products made from polycarbonate daily without knowing it.

What Is Polycarbonate?

First developed by General Electric (GE) and Bayer in the 1950s, this transparent plastic product is created by reacting bisphenol A with sodium hydroxide, which produces a sodium salt that is then reacted with phosgene. The final product is polycarbonate. It is a type of thermoplastic, which is pliable for molding when heated. These plastic products can eventually be melted down into a liquid form for easier recycling.

How Is Polycarbonate Used?

Because polycarbonate is transparent, shatterproof, durable, and lightweight, it’s used in many different plastic products, including:

• CDs, DVDs, and Blu-Ray discs
• Eyeglasses and safety goggles
• Headlights and other light fixtures
• Windows and windshields on small vehicles
• Cases for smartphones and tablets
• Medical devices

Although not entirely bulletproof, polycarbonate sheets are considered bullet-resistant, and have been used in aircrafts, vehicles, and even banks as well.

If your business needs polycarbonate sheets or products, look no further than the experts at Min Plastics & Supply. This local plastic supplier specializes in the sales and custom fabrication plastic products to meet your unique needs, whether you need to craft a durable display case or want polycarbonate for a building project. Call (808) 847-1511 to discuss the details of your project with one of their experts. Visit them online to learn more about the products and services they provide. You can also like them on Facebook for additional updates and tips.