The choice between plexiglass and polycarbonate for various applications can be overwhelming due to their similar characteristics. Both materials are widely used in industries such as construction, automotive, and electronics for their excellent strength and durability. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between plexiglass and polycarbonate in terms of their strength as a material.
Density and Composition
Plexiglass:
Plexiglass, also known as acrylic glass, is a transparent thermoplastic that consists of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). It has a density of around 1.17 g/cm^3, making it a lightweight material. Plexiglass is commonly used as a substitute for glass due to its transparency and optical clarity.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is a transparent amorphous thermoplastic that contains carbonate groups in its chemical structure. It has a slightly higher density than plexiglass, averaging around 1.20 g/cm^3. Polycarbonate is known for its exceptional impact resistance and strength.
Tensile Strength
Plexiglass:
Plexiglass exhibits good tensile strength, ranging from 65-75 MPa (megapascals). This strength allows it to withstand moderate amounts of force without breaking or shattering. It is particularly suitable for applications where impact resistance is not the primary concern.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate possesses superior tensile strength compared to plexiglass, typically ranging from 60-90 MPa. This impressive strength makes polycarbonate highly resistant to impacts, making it an ideal choice for applications that require a high degree of durability and shatter resistance.
Bendability
Plexiglass:
Plexiglass is a relatively rigid material and does not have high flexibility or bendability. It tends to crack or break when subjected to bending forces, limiting its usability in certain applications that require curved or shaped surfaces.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate exhibits excellent bendability and flexibility. It can be easily molded or shaped into various forms without cracking or losing its structural integrity. This property makes polycarbonate a preferred material for applications that involve curved or complex designs.
Impact Resistance
Plexiglass:
Plexiglass has relatively good impact resistance but is more susceptible to cracking or breaking upon sudden impacts. It can withstand lighter impacts without significant damage, but it may not be suitable for high-impact applications.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate is renowned for its exceptional impact resistance. It is virtually unbreakable, even when subjected to severe impact or heavy loads. This property makes polycarbonate a popular choice for products such as skylights, protective shields, and safety glasses.
Chemical Resistance
Plexiglass:
Plexiglass exhibits good resistance to most common chemicals, including solvents and acids. However, some chemicals, such as acetone and gasoline, can cause noticeable damage or discoloration to the material. It is essential to consider the specific chemical compatibility when using plexiglass in contact with potentially harmful substances.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate boasts excellent chemical resistance and can withstand exposure to various chemicals without significant damage or degradation. It offers superior performance in harsh chemical environments, making it suitable for applications requiring resistance to corrosive substances.
Temperature Resistance
Plexiglass:
Plexiglass has a lower temperature resistance compared to polycarbonate. It can withstand temperatures ranging from -30°C to 80°C before undergoing any notable changes in its structural integrity. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause plexiglass to shrink or expand, potentially affecting its dimensions.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate exhibits excellent temperature resistance, withstanding temperatures from -100°C to 135°C without significant changes in its properties. This property makes it suitable for applications where exposure to extreme heat or cold is expected.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both plexiglass and polycarbonate possess unique strengths as materials. While plexiglass offers good tensile strength and chemical resistance, it falls short in terms of impact resistance, bendability, and temperature resistance when compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, polycarbonate excels in all these areas, making it the stronger material overall. Depending on the specific requirements and applications, each material can still prove to be the right choice. It is crucial to consider the desired characteristics and traits when determining which material to use for a particular project or application.