Polycarbonate Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Polycarbonate
The repeating chemical structure of Polycarbonate made from bisphenol A

Polycarbonate is a special type of plastic that you can see through, just like glass. It's also known as a thermoplastic, which means it can be melted and reshaped many times. This material is very strong and doesn't break easily. It can handle very hot temperatures up to 138°C (280°F) and very cold temperatures down to -40°C (-40°F). Polycarbonate also resists stains and is safe to use because it's non-toxic. It's much lighter than glass, weighing only one-sixth as much.

Many different industries use polycarbonate to make a wide range of products. These can be anything from very strong, bulletproof windows to everyday items like CDs and DVDs. The main reasons companies choose polycarbonate are its amazing strength and its light weight.

Why Polycarbonate is Used in Eyeglasses
Polycarbonate in Electronics
What is Polycarbonate?
- How Polycarbonate is Made
Common Uses of Polycarbonate
Advantages of Polycarbonate
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Why Polycarbonate is Used in Eyeglasses

Clear polycarbonate is a popular choice for making glasses lenses. It's very clear, so you can see through it perfectly. It's also super durable, meaning it won't scratch or break easily. Lenses made from polycarbonate can be much thinner than lenses made from regular glass. This makes glasses lighter and more comfortable to wear.

Polycarbonate in Electronics

Many companies that make electronics use polycarbonate for their products. You can find it in the covers of phones, laptops, and other gadgets. Even though the final polycarbonate product is safe, the process of making it uses some chemicals that can be harmful. One of these chemicals is called Bisphenol A.

What is Polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is a type of plastic that is very strong and clear. It belongs to a group of materials called thermoplastics. This means it can be heated and molded into different shapes. Once it cools down, it keeps its new shape. If you heat it again, it will become soft and can be reshaped once more. This makes it very useful for manufacturing.

How Polycarbonate is Made

Polycarbonate is made from a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical is reacted with other substances to create long chains of molecules. These chains are what give polycarbonate its special properties. The process involves several steps in a factory.

Common Uses of Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is used in many things you see every day. Its strength, clarity, and light weight make it perfect for different products.

In Your Home

CDs and DVDs: The shiny discs you use for music or movies are often made from polycarbonate.
Water Bottles: Some reusable water bottles are made from polycarbonate because it's durable and clear.
Greenhouses: Sheets of polycarbonate are used to build greenhouses. They let sunlight through but are much stronger than glass.

For Safety and Protection

Safety Goggles: Because it's so strong and clear, polycarbonate is used for safety glasses and goggles. It protects your eyes from impacts.
Bulletproof Windows: Special thick sheets of polycarbonate can even stop bullets, making them useful for security.
Car Headlights: The clear covers over car headlights are often made from polycarbonate because they need to be tough and resist damage.

In Technology

Mobile Phones and Laptops: The outer casings of many electronic devices are made from polycarbonate. It protects the inside parts and keeps the device light.
Aircraft Canopies: The clear domes over the cockpits of some airplanes, like fighter jets, are made from polycarbonate. This gives pilots a clear view and protects them.