Views: 347 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2021-11-15 Origin: Site
Polycarbonate sheet and acrylic sheet are the most popular plastics in the market. The two things look almost identical to the naked eye, which can make it hard to tell the difference. However, they are very different, and you need to choose wisely based on the purpose for which you intend to use them.
First, a bluing agent is an essential polycarbonate sheet material when making polycarbonate. So, in as much as both appear clear on the surface, the edge of the polycarbonate sheet looks blue while acrylic is clear. We recommend you view them in natural light for better clarity. Both kinds of plastics have their own advantages and disadvantages. Acrylics are harder, shinier, cheaper and less likely to scratch than polycarbonate, which is more flexible and virtually unbreakable. Acrylic, on the other hand, tends to crack when impacted, while bulk polycarbonate sheets are prone to scratches.
Both plastics are stronger than glass obviously. However, polycarbonate sheets are stronger and have 250 times the impact resistance of glass, while acrylic is 10 times the impact resistance of glass. Because of its strength, small polycarbonate sheet has even been used to make police riot shields. Besides, polycarbonate is very flexible while acrylic easily cracks on impact because of its rigidity.
In terms of transparency, acrylic is the best because it lets in more light. Its light transmittance is 92 percent, compared with 88 percent for polycarbonate. Both are great for glazing. Clear polycarbonate sheet is mainly used for bus shelter glass because it is stronger than acrylic. Both are also used for secondary glass. To restore clarity, acrylic can be polished while polycarbonate cannot. Moreover, polished acrylic has a glossy appearance.
Acrylic is excellent for temperatures ranging between -30 degrees Fahrenheit to 190 degrees Fahrenheit. It expands and contracts with changes in temperature. However, there is no permanent shrinkage over time. Polycarbonate flat sheets, on the other hand, can withstand temperatures up to 240 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also highly resistant to chemicals like gasoline and acids.
Polycarbonate sheet price is always higher than acrylic’s. Thus, you will need to spend more on Polycarbonate as it generally costs 35% more than acrylic.
Both plastics are weather resistant and will expand and contract with temperature changes. However, there will be no permanent shrinkage. You should avoid touching them with abrasive binding agents as they can both scratch. Acrylic does not scratch easily and will not yellow with time. You should note that acrylic will chip easily compared to polycarbonate because it is less impact-resistant. In terms of flammability, polycarbonate panel has low flammability while acrylic will burn slowly. Therefore, it should be kept away from open flames.
Both polycarbonate and acrylic are very easy to clean. You should use 100% cotton cloths or microfiber while cleaning. Use only warm soapy water or an Acrylic cleaner for acrylic. Never used any form of chemicals. However, many types of polycarbonate sheet are more resistant to chemicals, and you can, therefore, use harsh detergents that contain chemicals such as ammonia. You should avoid using solvents to clean both plastics.
Hangzhou Saining Polycarbonate Sheet Co., Ltd. was founded in 1997, a manufacturer that specializes in producing various kinds of high-quality polycarbonate sheets (such as uv polycarbonate sheet and triple polycarbonate sheet).
