Lexan
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonates are a group of thermoplastic polymers containing carbonate groups in their chemical structures. Polycarbonates used in engineering are strong, tough materials, and some grades are optically transparent. They are easily worked, molded, and thermoformed. Because of …
Thermoplastic
A thermoplastic, or thermosoftening plastic, is a plastic polymer material that becomes pliable or moldable at a certain elevated temperature and solidifies upon cooling. Most thermoplastics have a high molecular weight. The polymer chains associate by intermolecular forces, which weaken rapidly with increased temperature, yielding a viscous liquid. In this state, thermoplastics m…
What is Lexan polycarbonate?
What is Lexan Polycarbonate Lexan is Polycarbonate, a colorless, transparent, unqualified thermoplastic material. Known as a transparent alloy with very high mechanical strength, polycarbonate is colorless, transparent, heat resistant, impact resistant, flame retardant, and has UL94 V-0 grade flame retardant properties without additives.
What is clear Lexan 9034?
Clear LEXAN ™ 9034 Polycarbonate Sheet LEXAN ™ 9034 uncoated polycarbonate sheet is the standard grade of LEXAN ™ sheet for transparent protective glazing. High-impact LEXAN ™ 9034 sheets can be utilized for primary glazing, or on either side of existing glazing for economical protection against breakage or intrusions.
What is the difference between Lexan and acrylic?
Lexan vs. Acrylic. Acrylic and Lexan, a branded name for polycarbonate sheeting, are both durable and flexible materials, often compared to one another because both are transparent and both stand as two of the most frequently utilized types of see-through plastics. Acrylic and polycarbonate both weigh half as much as glass...
What is the difference between Lexan and Lucite?
Polycarbonate (Lexan) vs Acrylic (Lucite) Sheet grade polycarbonate (aka Lexan or Makrolon) and acrylic sheet (aka Lucite) are two of the most frequently used see-through plastics. Each of the two have benefits and drawbacks. Acrylic is shinier and polycarb is stronger. Acrylic is less expensive but easier to crack.
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Is Lexan as clear as glass?
Acrylic and lexan are similar in many ways. They both are stronger than glass; however, polycarbonate is an extra 3 times stronger than acrylic. Similarly, they both have a glass-like transparent appearance, but polycarbonate loses its clarity with time.
Does Lexan stay clear?
x 96 in., is a perfect glass substitute. Polycarbonate sheet maintains glass-like clarity and is highly impact resistant and strong. LEXAN is approximately 250 times stronger than glass. It can be used for a variety of household projects, including replacement windows, garage windows, and storm doors.
Which is clearer Lexan or Plexiglass?
However, over time, Lexan is more likely to yellow and lose some of its clear quality. As a bonus, it is resistant to many chemicals, including acid. Plexiglass, on the other hand, tends to maintain its clarity even when it's used outdoors or placed in inclement weather.
How can you tell the difference between Plexiglass and Lexan?
Plexiglass also has a higher UV tolerance than Lexan and, therefore, does not get yellow over the time. While Lexan is easier to cold bend whereas Plexiglass is easier to cut and also has a cleaner, more attractive glue joint than Lexan.
Does Lexan yellow in the sun?
Plexiglass is also more resistant to scratches. It has better UV light resistance and does not get yellow. Lexan, however, can get yellow over time and is more prone to damages.
Does Lexan scratch easily?
The cons of LEXAN are that it is easier to scratch, and minor scratches cannot be polished away. Polycarbonate is generally more expensive than acrylic plexiglass.
Can you see-through Lexan?
Acrylic and Lexan, a branded name for polycarbonate sheeting, are both durable and flexible materials, often compared to one another because both are transparent and both stand as two of the most frequently utilized types of see-through plastics.
How do you get scratches out of Lexan?
Heat Gun: For superficial or deep scratches on your Lexan, it is possible to polish the scratch by giving it its transparency with a heat gun. The scratch will always be visible in the light, and the heat worked area will be visible on your polycarbonate.
Can you use Lexan for a windshield?
LEXAN is a variety of polycarbonate (PC) that is incredibly tough and resistant to impact – one of the multitude of reasons why it is a great alternative to glass. If you are needing material that has an attractive aesthetic but is also strong and unbreakable, then LEXAN Polycarbonate is a great choice.
What color is Lexan?
You can purchase our tinted lexan sheets in bronze, light grey, or dark grey.
Can I cut Lexan with a circular saw?
Now, let's move on and discuss how to cut a Lexan sheet. If you've got a sheet of Lexan that's 3 mm or thicker, you can use a circular saw with a carbide-tipped blade.
Which is better Lexan or acrylic?
Sheet grade polycarbonate (aka Lexan or Makrolon) and acrylic sheet (aka Lucite) are two of the most frequently used see-through plastics. Each of the two have benefits and drawbacks. Acrylic is shinier and polycarb is stronger. Acrylic is less expensive but easier to crack.
What is the difference between Lexan and polycarbonate?
Yes, they are the same thing. Lexan™ is actually a brand name of polycarbonate manufactured by Sabic Innovative Plastic. We offer both Lexan™ and Makrolon® brand polycarbonate sheet.
What's the difference between Lexan and acrylic?
Sheet grade polycarbonate (aka Lexan or Makrolon) and acrylic sheet (aka Lucite) are two of the most frequently used see-through plastics. Each of the two have benefits and drawbacks. Acrylic is shinier and polycarb is stronger. Acrylic is less expensive but easier to crack.
Can you use Lexan for a windshield?
LEXAN is a variety of polycarbonate (PC) that is incredibly tough and resistant to impact – one of the multitude of reasons why it is a great alternative to glass. If you are needing material that has an attractive aesthetic but is also strong and unbreakable, then LEXAN Polycarbonate is a great choice.
Are there different grades of Lexan?
Trident manufactures and stocks several grades of Glass-reinforced Polycarbonate made from Sabic-IP Lexan® resin including: 10% Glass-reinforced Lexan® 500R, 20% Glass-reinforced Lexan® 3412R, 30% Glass-reinforced Lexan® 3413R, 40% Glass-reinforced Lexan® 3414R.
Lexan Polycarbonate Sheeting
Polycarbonate is sometimes called Lexan (a trademarked name by GE Plastics) or Makrolon. Though polycarbonate sheets on average cost about 35% more...
Common Acrylic Sheet Uses
1. Motorcycle helmet visors 2. Helicopter and submarine windows 3. Hockey rink glass 4. Interior layer of storm window linings 5. Animal and reptil...
Common Lexan Polycarbonate Sheet Uses
1. Window well covers 2. Automobile windows and windshields 3. Reusable drinking bottles 4. Computers and phone cases 5. Transparent visors for foo...
What is Lexan sheeting?
Lexan is a trademarked term for polycarbonate sheeting, one of the most widely used plastics in the world. The brand name Lexan was created in 1960 by General Electric (GE), whereas Bayer began producing the same material under the names Merlon and Makrolon in 1958.
Why is acrylic yellow?
Because of its flexibility, it can also be dented, and because it’s highly resistant to acids and other harsh chemicals, it can be difficult to clean with abrasive cleaners.
Can you drill with Lexan?
Because of this flexibility, Lexan can be drilled without the threat of cracking you might experience with glass or acrylic. Lexan is also resistant to temperatures up to 240 degrees Fahrenheit, and it is highly resistant to acids and other harsh chemicals.
Is Lexan a plastic?
In short, Lexan is a hugely popular plastic with a wide range of applications.
Is Lexan the same as acrylic?
Lexan and acrylic are often considered for similar applications . In general, acrylic is the preferred choice for applications in which a certain look or aesthetic is important, because it offers the transparency of glass with shatter and impact resistance that is superior to glass. It’s also less expensive compared to Lexan, making it a more cost friendly choice.
What are the pros and cons of Lexan?
Cons of Lexan: Easier to scratch. More expensive in comparison to acrylic. Poorer clarity, cannot be polished to restore clarity. Can be yellowed over time by UV rays. Low level of resistance to abrasive cleaners and surfaces. Can be dented easily.
What is Lexan sheeting?
Lexan Polycarbonate Sheeting. Polycarbonate is sometimes called Lexan (a trademarked name by GE Plastics) or Makrolon. Though polycarbonate sheets on average cost about 35% more than acrylic, that extra investment may be worth it if you’re looking for a material with unmatched impact resistance and durability.
Why is polycarbonate the go-to plastic?
It’s that unmatched strength in the world of plastics that makes polycarbonate the proper choice if you’re looking for a material to protect your business or institution. There’s a reason why it’s become the go-to plastic for situations where safety is paramount.
What is acrylic sheeting?
Acrylic Sheeting. Acrylic is often used interchangeably with Plexiglas, which is trademarked by Rohm and Hass. The generic name for Plexiglas is plexiglass, and the material also goes by the trade names of Acrylite, Lucite and Perspex.
What is polycarbonate used for?
Polycarbonate is used in the windows of race cars, the visors of hockey and football helmets, guards for industrial machinery, and in layers as bulletproof “glass.”. Though polycarbonate may not be as aesthetically pleasing as acrylic, it’s more than made up for by its unmatched strength and flexibility.
What is the difference between Lexan and acrylic?
Acrylic and Lexan, a branded name for polycarbonate sheeting, are both durable and flexible materials, often compared to one another because both are transparent and both stand as two of the most frequently utilized types of see-through plastics. Acrylic and polycarbonate both weigh half as much as glass ...
Is acrylic sheet better than polycarbonate?
Its lower cost - when compared to polycarbonate - also makes it an attractive option for businesses and institutions that require a protecting material but not one quite as strong as polycarbonate.
How to remove Lexan sheet?
When Lexan™ sheet is first installed, glazing compound and masking paper adhesive can be easily removed by applying naphtha (VM&P) or kerosene with a soft cloth, followed immediately with a thorough soap and water cleaning. DO NOT USE GASOLINE. Adherence to regular and proper cleaning procedures is recommended to preserve appearance.
How to clean Lexan sheets?
Wash Lexan™ Sheet with a mild soap or detergent (e.g., Joy** dishwashing liquid) and lukewarm water using a clean sponge or a soft cloth. Rinse well with clean water. Dry thoroughly with a chamois or moist cellulose sponge to prevent water spots.
What is the best car polish for scratches?
Four such products that tend to polish and fill scratches are Johnson Paste Wax, Novus Plastic Polish #1 and #2 (Novus Inc., Minneapolis, MN), Mirror Glaze plastic polish (m.G.M10 – Mirror bright Polish Co., Pasadena, CA), and Plexus* (B.T.I. Chemical, Aguora, CA). It is suggested that a test be made on a sample of Lexan™ sheet with the product selected and that the polish manufacturer's instructions be followed.
Can you clean Lexan sheets in direct sunlight?
DO NOT clean Lexan™ sheet products in direct sunlight or at elevated temperatures.
Can you use abrasive cleaner on Lexan sheets?
DO NOT use abrasive or highly alkaline cleaners on Lexan™ sheet products. DO NOT scrape Lexan™ sheet products with squeegees, razor blades or other sharp instruments. DO NOT use gasoline, benzene, acetone, or carbon tetrachloride on Lexan™ sheet products.
What is the difference between plexiglass and lexan?
That can have an impact depending on the application or project that you’re overseeing. Lexan is made of polycarbonate plastic. Plexiglass, on the other hand, is made out of acrylic. There are many differences between the two, but they can be used in the same projects. Again, it all comes down to what you expect and what you want. You should know that both materials are stronger than traditional glass. As a result, they’re more durable and offer more protection.
Which is stronger, plexiglass or lexan?
Lexan is the strongest and can withstand impacts to such a degree that it won’t crack. Instead, it displays resistance by bending. Plexiglass is still quite strong, but it may crack or chip, given enough time or impact. That’s because it’s a little less rigid than Lexan.
Can you polish plexiglass?
Plexiglass, on the other hand, tends to maintain its clarity even when it’s used outdoors or placed in inclement weather. You can also polish it to bring back its clarity. Either one is ideal for outdoor applications or aesthetic purposes, such as greenhouse glass, automobile glass, and exterior signage.
Is Lexan plexiglass clear?
That’s because they both resemble glass in terms of their clarity and transparency. However, over time, Lexan is more likely to yellow and lose some of its clear quality. As a bonus, it is resistant to many chemicals, including acid.
What is the difference between Lexan and Plexiglass?
LEXAN and Plexiglass are both trade names for plastic sheet materials known as Polycarbonate and Acrylic. LEXAN™ is one of the most popular brands for polycarbonate; other brands include Palsun from Palram, or Tuffak (formerly Makrolon) from Plaskolite. Plexiglass is a common term for acrylic sheet, and the brand Plexiglas® is available from Trinseo, other brands include OPTIX® from Plaskolite, and Acrylite® from Roehm. Polymershapes proudly partners with all of these manufacturers to offer the best brands of polycarbonate and acrylic! Both Acrylic and LEXAN Polycarbonate sheeting are durable materials. Since both are widely utilized as see-through plastics, the two are often compared. Both serve as quality alternatives to glass, weighing much less and both being shatter resistant.
When is polycarbonate used?
Polycarbonate is preferred when strength and impact resistant are needed, or when the material could be exposed to high heat. With each material, specialty grades are available to enhance characteristics that might otherwise be lacking, such as scratch resistance, or UV resistance. Popular polycarbonate (LEXAN) uses:
What is plexiglass sheet?
Plexiglass is a common term for acrylic sheet, and the brand Plexiglas® is available from Arkema, other brands include OPTIX® from Plaskolite, and Acrylite® from Roehm. Polymershapes proudly partners with all of these manufacturers to offer the best brands of polycarbonate and acrylic!
What is the difference between acrylic and polycarbonate?
The following are pros of acrylic plexiglass: Acrylic has a glossier, water clear appearance compared to polycarbonate. Acrylic is generally less expensive than polycarbonate, but different coating and grade options may alter the price of each material. Compared to polycarbonate, acrylic is typically more scratch resistant, but less impact resistant: about 10 times more impact resistant than glass, compared to polycarbonate being about 250 times more impact resistant than glass. Acrylic is also inherently UV resistant, making it a good option for outdoor applications. There are many color options available for acrylic, from opaque to transparent and translucent colors, providing a wide array of design options. Cut acrylic edges also polish well, either with mechanical polishing, or flame polishing.
What is Polymershapes motto?
At Polymershapes, we stand by our motto – that you’re the center of all we do. We pride ourselves in only sourcing quality plastics and selling them as-is or fabricating them for our valued customers. Since a variety of industries depend on quality plastics, we have become the go-to choice for businesses looking for plastic distributors. Continue reading to learn about the difference in LEXAN vs Plexiglass, two of our popular products.
Is Lexan polycarbonate flammable?
It is highly resistant to acids and chemicals, such as gasoline. It has a low level of flammability, which is essential in certain industries. LEXAN polycarbonate is also available in a variety of flexible (film) grades. The cons of LEXAN are that it is easier to scratch, and minor scratches cannot be polished away.
Is acrylic UV resistant?
Acrylic is also inherently UV resistant, making it a good option for outdoor applications. There are many color options available for acrylic, from opaque to transparent and translucent colors, providing a wide array of design options.
