What is the disadvantage of clear polycarbonate?

What is the disadvantage of clear polycarbonate?

Clear polycarbonate, a versatile and durable material, has gained popularity in various industries due to its exceptional properties. However, like any other product, clear polycarbonate also has a few shortcomings. In this article, we will explore the disadvantages of clear polycarbonate, its limitations, and possible alternatives.

1. Prone to Scratches:

Clear polycarbonate, although highly impact-resistant, is susceptible to scratches. Even minor contact with abrasive materials or sharp objects can leave visible marks on its surface. This disadvantage can be a significant concern in applications where optical clarity is crucial, such as lighting fixtures or automobile windows.

To mitigate this issue, manufacturers often apply a protective coating on clear polycarbonate products to enhance scratch resistance. However, this coating may wear off over time, exposing the material to scratches again. Regular maintenance and care are necessary to retain the visual appeal of clear polycarbonate products.

2. Poor UV Resistance:

One of the major drawbacks of clear polycarbonate is its poor resistance to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When exposed to sunlight or outdoor environments, clear polycarbonate tends to degrade and discolor. The UV radiation breaks the polymer chains within the material, leading to yellowing and reduced transparency.

To address this issue, manufacturers often add UV stabilizers or coatings to clear polycarbonate products. These additives help mitigate the effects of UV radiation, prolonging the material's lifespan and maintaining its optical clarity. However, it's important to note that even with these additives, clear polycarbonate may still experience some degree of yellowing over time.

3. Lower High-Temperature Resistance:

While clear polycarbonate offers excellent impact resistance, it has a relatively lower resistance to high temperatures compared to other materials like glass. Polycarbonate begins to soften and deform around 155C (311F), limiting its usability in applications where exposure to elevated temperatures is expected.

In situations involving extreme heat, such as automotive engine components or oven doors, alternatives like heat-resistant glass or ceramic materials may be more suitable. These materials can withstand higher temperatures without experiencing significant deformation or loss of structural integrity, unlike clear polycarbonate.

4. Limited Chemical Resistance:

Clear polycarbonate exhibits limited resistance to certain chemicals, making it unsuitable for applications where exposure to harsh chemicals or solvents is anticipated. If exposed to chemicals such as acetone or gasoline, clear polycarbonate may experience chemical attack, resulting in cracking, discoloration, or loss of integrity.

To overcome this limitation, various chemical-resistant alternatives are available, depending on the specific chemical requirements of the application. For instance, materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), or polypropylene (PP) offer superior chemical resistance in comparison to clear polycarbonate.

5. Relatively High Cost:

Clear polycarbonate can be more expensive than other transparent materials such as glass or acrylic. The higher cost can be attributed to the production process, which involves complex manufacturing techniques, rigorous quality control, and the raw material's inherent properties.

However, it's important to consider the long-term benefits and applications when evaluating the cost of clear polycarbonate. Its durability, impact resistance, and lightweight nature can often outweigh the initial investment, especially in industries where safety and performance are paramount.

In conclusion, clear polycarbonate possesses outstanding properties that make it an attractive choice for various applications. Nonetheless, it's important to be aware of its disadvantages. These include susceptibility to scratches, poor UV resistance, lower high-temperature resistance, limited chemical resistance, and relatively higher cost compared to alternative materials. By understanding these limitations, individuals and businesses can make informed decisions and explore suitable alternatives if clear polycarbonate's characteristics do not meet their specific requirements.