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Description
Polycarbonate Sheet | Clear PC Sheet | 250 Times Stronger Than Glass | Cut to Size
Polycarbonate sheet is the ultimate high-performance clear plastic — virtually unbreakable, optically clear, and trusted across machine guarding, anti-vandal glazing, safety screens, rooflights, and riot shields. Approximately 250 times stronger than glass and significantly stronger than acrylic, polycarbonate is the material of choice wherever impact resistance and optical clarity are both critical.
Also known commercially as Lexan, Makrolon, and Paltough, our clear polycarbonate sheet is available in thicknesses from 2mm to 12mm across a wide range of cut-to-size dimensions — ideal for bespoke fabrication, replacement panels, and one-off projects.
Key Technical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | Polycarbonate (PC) |
| Colour | Clear / Transparent |
| Impact Strength vs Glass | ~250× stronger |
| Light Transmission | Up to 90% |
| Working Temperature | -40°C to +120°C |
| Thermal Expansion | Higher than glass — allow for expansion in fixing |
| UV Resistance | Standard grades: internal use. UV grades available for external |
| Chemical Resistance | Moderate — avoid solvents, strong acids |
| Flammability | Self-extinguishing (V2 rating) |
| Flexibility | Can be cold-bent along a curve |
| Machinability | Drillable, routable, sawable |
Why Choose Polycarbonate Sheet?
- 250× stronger than glass — virtually unbreakable under normal impact conditions
- Optically clear — up to 90% light transmission, excellent visibility
- Lightweight — much lighter than glass for equivalent strength
- Cold-bendable — can be formed along a curve without heating
- Wide temperature range — performs from -40°C to +120°C
- Self-extinguishing — V2 flammability rating, safer than acrylic in fire
- Drillable & machinable — cut, drill, rout with standard tools
- Anti-vandal quality — used in bus shelters, phone boxes, public installations
Typical Applications
- Machine guards & safety screens — most common industrial application
- Anti-vandal glazing — bus shelters, public buildings, schools
- Rooflights & skylights — UV-grade recommended for external
- Riot shields & protective barriers — trusted by security services
- Greenhouse glazing — impact-resistant alternative to glass
- Display cases & exhibition stands
- Aquariums & fish tanks
- Security glazing
Important Notes
- Notch sensitivity: Drilling or notching reduces impact resistance in that area — always use sharp drill bits and allow clearance holes
- Thermal expansion: Always allow expansion gaps in fixings — PC expands more than glass with temperature change
- Cleaning: Use mild soap and water only — avoid solvents, abrasive cloths, or dry dusters which will scratch or craze the surface
- Standard grades: Recommended for internal use only. For external applications, specify UV-stabilised grade
- Chemical compatibility: Avoid contact with solvents, fuels, and strong acids — check chemical resistance chart for your specific application
✅ UK stock. ✅ Cut to size — all dimensions available. ✅ Fast dispatch. Multiple quantities available.