PCABs

PC-ABS is a polymer blend of polycarbonate (PC) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) used in a wide range of engineered plastics applications. The blend combines the toughness, impact resistance, and heat resistance of polycarbonate with the easy processing, ductility, and cost advantages of ABS, resulting in a material with balanced mechanical and thermal properties.

Key properties of PC-ABS include high impact resistance and good toughness, especially at low temperatures, along with improved heat resistance compared with ABS alone. The material also offers good dimensional stability and chemical resistance to many hydrocarbons and oils. Many grades are available with flame retardancy suitable for consumer electronics and automotive parts. PC-ABS typically processes well by injection molding and extrusion, with good flow characteristics and wide colorability. Proper drying may be recommended to minimize moisture-related defects, and mold temperature and processing parameters should be optimized to reduce potential surface blemishes or warpage.

Processing and variants: PC-ABS is widely processed by standard thermoplastic methods and is also used in additive manufacturing, including FDM 3D printing with PC-ABS filament. In the market, it is often marketed as PC/ABS, highlighting its compositional blend. Variants include flame-retardant grades and customized formulations to meet specific industry requirements.

Applications: Commonly used for electronics housings, automotive interior components, power tool casings, consumer electronics enclosures, and other parts requiring a combination of toughness and moderate heat resistance.

Related considerations: PC-ABS offers a middle ground between ABS and polycarbonate, trading some of PC’s stiffness and heat resistance for improved processability and impact performance, with trade-offs in cost and maximum service temperatures. Recycling is possible but often requires separation from pure PC or ABS streams.