What is polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is a plastic known for its clarity, strong structure and high impact resistance. The material is widely used as a substitute for glass, particularly where safety and durability are important. Examples include canopies, skylights, machine covers and protection against vandalism. In this blog, you can read exactly what polycarbonate is, what types of polycarbonate sheets are available and what to look out for when purchasing. We will also discuss some key properties of polycarbonate that are often decisive factors for our customers.

What exactly is polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic and falls within the category of thermoplastic polymers. This means that it becomes pliable when heated, but hardens again once cooled without losing any of its properties. As a result, polycarbonate can be produced in a wide variety of forms: flat sheets, hollow-core slabs and corrugated sheets. Solid polycarbonate sheets are also widely used in a variety of applications.

A key feature is its exceptional impact resistance. Polycarbonate is virtually unbreakable, even when subjected to heavy impact. This makes it up to 250 times stronger than glass of the same thickness. Thanks to this property, it is often used in situations where safety is paramount, such as in sports facilities, machinery and roofing solutions. Furthermore, polycarbonate is lightweight. It is much lighter than glass, making installation easier and safer. The combination of strength, clarity and low weight makes polycarbonate a practical and sustainable choice for many projects. Because polycarbonate offers long-term durability and resistance, it is often used where a replacement for glass is required.

Polycarbonate sheets: clear, strong and versatile

When people search for polycarbonate sheets, they are mainly used in applications such as canopies, carports, verandas, skylights and wall cladding. Polycarbonate sheets are ideal when you want to let plenty of light through, but still need protection against rain, wind and UV radiation. At Kunststof Forte, you will find a wide range of polycarbonate sheets in various thicknesses and designs. You can also order many of our polycarbonate sheets by the metre or have them cut to size.

Clear polycarbonate sheets

Clear sheets are often chosen for applications where you want to maximise natural light. They are similar to glass in terms of transparency, but are much stronger and lighter. As polycarbonate is UV-resistant, it does not discolour quickly and remains clear for years. Clear sheets are used for, amongst other things:

• Canopies and shelters
• Skylights
• Wind screens
• Balcony glazing

Opal polycarbonate sheets

Opal sheets still allow light to pass through, but give it a soft, diffused appearance. They are often used where privacy is important or where direct sunlight is too bright. Examples include:

• Carports
• Patio canopies
• Canopies over play areas
• Sanitary facilities

Polycarbonate multi-wall sheets: lightweight, insulating and affordable

Corrugated polycarbonate sheets are ideal for roofs where you want to combine natural light with a strong, weather-resistant structure. They are widely used in gardens, outbuildings and canopies. Because the corrugated shape provides strength, these sheets are suitable for longer spans and situations with higher wind loads. The sheets are easy to install and have a long service life. Here too, the properties of polycarbonate play an important role, such as its low weight and excellent impact resistance.

What are the main advantages of polycarbonate?

In summary, polycarbonate has a number of properties that make it particularly suitable for a wide range of projects:

• Very strong: The material is virtually unbreakable.
• Lightweight: making it easy to install.
• UV-resistant: barely yellowing and remains bright.
• Versatile: suitable for roofing, walls, protective coverings and machine guards.
• Weatherproof: highly resistant to rain, wind and temperature fluctuations.

Many people also ask what the best way is to clean polycarbonate. It’s easy to do using a mild detergent and a soft cloth, so that the surface stays nice and clear without getting scratched.

Buy polycarbonate from Kunststof Forte

Whether you have a small DIY job or are looking for materials for a larger project, you can always count on clear information, fast delivery and expert support. Do you have any questions about polycarbonate sheets or would you like advice for your specific situation? Then please get in touch with the team at Kunststof Forte. They’ll be happy to help you find the right materials for your project.