Since polycarbonates were first prepared in 1898 by Einhorn; they are seemingly being used in quite a number of domestic and industrial applications. Polycarbonates are formed through a process known as condensation polymerization which results in a compound of carbon, which is bounded by three oxygen atoms. This reaction involves phosgene and bisphenol A. The most common uses polycarbonate sheets mainly tend to focus on two main properties; an exceptional clarity and high impact strength. Of course, with the advancement in technology; UV polycarbonates have been introduced in the market and they are used to construct greenhouses, roofs, bullet proof windows etc.
Factors which determine the uses of polycarbonate sheets in different areas:
The nominal thickness;
it is an important factor to consider when choosing and polycarbonate sheet. For example, a polycarbonate material with a thickness of about 1.25 mm nominal thickness can be used for almost all industrial applications. It can withstand all the laborious conditions within an industrial set up. Conversely, a polycarbonate with a nominal diameter of about 1.0 mm is classified as a lightweight polycarbonate. They are mainly used for domestic applications where they are exposed to less rigorous conditions.
Solar transmission;
the amount of light required, will also determine the type of polycarbonate to be used. It is also another parameter which determines the uses of polycarbonate sheets. Normally, these materials have a high degree of clarity. In most cases, about 70% of the heat effect from the sun, which is between 350 and 800 nanometres can be transmitted through carbonate sheets.
Heat stop;
this is one technology which has also been incorporated into the polycarbonate sheet manufacturing industry. With this technology, over 60% of radiated heat can be eliminated, resulting in a cool environment. Moreover, such materials incorporate the UV technology and other microscopic reflective particles which form a silver color, thereby by a reflective component of the polycarbonate sheet. It is a common technology in the roofing industry, which is one of the most common uses of polycarbonate sheets. In most cases, it guarantees a lower level of light transmission while the translucent roof is used to achieve the desired light levels. This technology offers the following key advantages: UV surface protection, an exciting new color, 20% light transmission and suburb physical properties.
External environment;
the external environments may cause substances to degrade, weather or to corrode. In such scenarios, a polycarbonate sheet which has been stabilized with UV is commonly used since it protects the material from the three natural phenomena. The UV layer, neither cracks nor degrades which guarantees a trouble-free performance. However, it is important to note that after a long period of time, photo degradation may occur.
Normally, without the UV protection, the short wavelength from the sun are absorbed by the polymer which results in the formation of chemical bonds. This results in the yellowing of the polycarbonate sheets. The good thing about polycarbonates is that they are resistant to corrosion and hence they can be used in a number of applications. It is important to consider all these factors anytime you intend to install any of these products.
