Polycarbonate (PC) Compounds

Polycarbonate (PC) compounds are thermoplastic polymers known for their high impact resistance, transparency, and dimensional stability. They are often blended or modified with additives such as ABS, glass fibers, flame retardants, or UV stabilizers to enhance mechanical, thermal, or chemical performance for specific applications in automotive, electronics, medical, and consumer products

Processing Characteristics

Polycarbonate (PC) compounds require careful processing due to their hygroscopic nature and high melt viscosity: the material must be thoroughly dried beforehand (typically 110–120 °C for 3–6 hours) to prevent hydrolytic degradation and surface defects, while injection molding or extrusion demands relatively high melt temperatures (about 260–320 °C) and moderately high mold temperatures (80–120 °C) to ensure good flow, low internal stress, and a high-quality surface; PC exhibits low shrinkage (around 0.5–0.7%) and good dimensional stability but is sensitive to overheating, excessive shear, and chemical stress-cracking, with additives or blends (such as PC/ABS, glass fiber, or flame retardants) significantly influencing processability and the optimal processing window.

About our suppliers

Polykemi is a leading producer of high-quality polymer compounds and masterbatches, serving a variety of industries, including consumer products, construction, and automotive. Polykemi prioritizes innovation and customer satisfaction, offering specialized solutions to meet each client’s unique needs.

RTP specializes in the compounding of custom engineered thermoplastics for a variety of applications and industries. The company has a global presence, with manufacturing facilities and technical centers located across multiple regions. RTP is committed to innovation and continuously develops new products and formulations to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Lotte Chemical is a global chemical company dedicated to creating a better world through chemistry. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Lotte Chemical is at the forefront of developing the future hydrogen ecosystem, renewing mobility, and promoting a more valuable world through the circular economy of plastics.

Unique Properties

Polycarbonate compounds offer unique properties and advantages, including:

  • Impact Resistance: They exhibit exceptional impact resistance, making them suitable for applications where durability and safety are crucial.
  • Heat Resistance: They have good heat resistance properties, allowing them to withstand high temperatures without deformation.
  • Electrical Insulation: PC compounds offer effective electrical insulating properties, making them suitable for electrical and electronic components.
  • Flame Resistance: Some PC compounds are formulated to meet specific flame resistance standards, enhancing their fire safety.

Alternative for

The choice of using PC compounds depends on specific application requirements, including impact resistance, transparency, and heat resistance. Alternatives may include other engineering thermoplastics like polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or acrylic (PMMA), depending on the desired characteristics and cost considerations. The selection is influenced by factors such as the intended use, regulatory requirements, and the need for specific material properties. PC compounds are preferred when their unique combination of impact resistance, transparency, and heat resistance aligns with the application’s needs, particularly in industries where these properties are critical, such as electronics and automotive.

Paul Hendriks
Business Unit Manager Thermoplastics

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