polykarbonaatista

Polycarbonate, known in Finnish as polykarbonaatti, is a transparent, amorphous thermoplastic polymer prized for its high impact resistance, clarity, and heat tolerance. It is used in many lightweight, sturdy components, including lenses, glazing, electronics housings, and medical devices.

Polycarbonate is typically produced by reacting bisphenol A with phosgene in a two-step process, or by melt transesterification of bisphenol A with diphenyl carbonate. The resulting polymer is available in general-purpose, optical, and specialty grades, with formulations that include UV stabilizers, flame retardants, or medical-grade additives.

Its glass transition temperature is about 147°C, and it exhibits high optical clarity with light transmission around 90%. It offers excellent impact resistance and dimensional stability but can be prone to scratching and yellowing without UV stabilization. It is amorphous and relatively lightweight, with a density near 1.2 g/cm3.

Common applications include eyewear lenses, CDs and DVDs, car and building glazing, electronic housings, and medical devices.

Environmental and safety considerations include regulatory scrutiny of bisphenol A used in production in some regions. Recycling is possible through mechanical grinding for re-melting or chemical processes to recover components, but it remains technically and economically challenging. End-of-life options include mechanical recycling, energy recovery, and region-specific disposal programs designed to minimize environmental impact.