Presentation

Poly Methyl acrylate (PMMA) & Poly Carbonate (PC)

➢ Structure
➢ Properties
➢ Performance
➢ Application
➢ Processing Technique
1) Poly Methyl acrylate (PMMA)
Structure
-CH2-C(CH3)=CH2

Performance
1. Transparency: PMMA is renowned for its excellent optical clarity and transparency, making it an ideal
material for applications where visibility is crucial. It allows a high transmission of visible light, similar to that
of glass, which is why it is often used for clear windows, lenses, and display screens.
2. Impact Resistance: PMMA exhibits good impact resistance, especially in comparison to glass. It can withstand
certain impacts without shattering, making it suitable for applications where safety and durability are
important, such as protective shields, safety glasses, and face shields.
3. Lightweight: PMMA is a lightweight material, which can be advantageous in applications where weight
reduction is desirable, such as in aircraft components, automotive parts, and lightweight signage.
4. UV Resistance: PMMA has relatively good resistance to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This property makes it
suitable for outdoor applications where exposure to sunlight is a concern, as it resists yellowing and
degradation over time.
Properties
PMMA's combination of optical clarity, impact resistance, lightweight nature, and ease of processing has led
to its use in a wide range of applications, including clear windows, lenses, displays, signs, and protective
equipment. However, it also has some limitations, such as susceptibility to scratching and brittleness at low
temperatures. The specific properties of PMMA can vary depending on the specific formulation and
processing techniques used.

Applications
1.Transparent Windows and Lenses: PMMA is widely used as a glass substitute in applications that require excellent
optical clarity, such as windows for buildings, aircraft, automobiles, and boats. It is also used in eyeglass lenses, camera
lenses, and optical components.
2.Signage and Display: PMMA is a popular material for making signs, light guide panels, and display screens. It is often
used in illuminated signs, information boards, and digital displays due to its transparency and ability to transmit light.
3.Protective Equipment: PMMA is used in the production of safety equipment, including safety goggles, face shields,
and protective barriers. Its impact resistance and optical clarity make it suitable for such applications.
4.Automotive Components: PMMA is used for automotive parts such as headlight lenses, taillight covers, interior trim,
and instrument panels. It provides durability and excellent light transmission for headlights.
5.Lighting: PMMA is used in the manufacture of LED light covers, diffusers, and light fixtures due to its light-transmitting
properties and ease of fabrication.
Processing Technique
1.Injection Molding: Injection molding is one of the most widely used methods for processing PMMA. In this process,
PMMA pellets or granules are heated until they become molten and then injected into a mold cavity. After cooling and
solidification, the part takes the shape of the mold. Injection molding is suitable for mass production of parts with
complex geometries, such as automotive lenses and various plastic components.
2.Extrusion: PMMA can be processed through extrusion, where it is melted and forced through a die to produce
continuous profiles or sheets. This method is used for manufacturing items like acrylic sheets, pipes, and tubes. Single-
screw and twin-screw extruders can be used depending on the specific requirements.
3.Casting: PMMA can be cast using techniques like casting in a mold, solvent casting, or resin casting. These methods are
often used in applications where transparency and optical quality are critical, such as making clear acrylic sheets, artistic
sculptures, and intricate shapes.
4.Compression Molding: Compression molding involves placing PMMA pellets or sheets into a mold and then subjecting
them to heat and pressure until they take the shape of the mold. It is commonly used for producing items like lenses and
optical components.
5.Thermoforming: Thermoforming is a process where PMMA sheets are heated until they become pliable and then
stretched over a mold or form. Once the material cools and hardens, it retains the shape of the mold. Thermoforming is
used for applications like packaging, signs, and various types of enclosures.
6.Machining: PMMA can be machined using standard machining tools like milling machines, lathes, and routers. It is
often used for creating custom parts, prototypes, and intricate designs. Machining is a subtractive process that allows for
precise shaping and detailing.
7.Laser Cutting and Engraving: PMMA can be cut and engraved using laser technology. Laser cutting and engraving are
precise methods suitable for creating intricate designs and patterns in PMMA sheets.
2) Poly Carbonate (PC)
Structure
Performance

1.High Impact Resistance: PC is extremely impact-resistant, making it a suitable choice for

applications where durability and toughness are crucial. It can withstand significant mechanical
stress without breaking, which is why it's used in safety equipment, bulletproof glass, and
automotive components.
2.Optical Clarity: PC offers excellent optical clarity, allowing for the transmission of light with
minimal distortion. It is used in applications like eyeglass lenses, optical discs, and automotive
headlight covers.
3.High Temperature Resistance: PC can withstand relatively high temperatures without
melting or deforming. It has a glass transition temperature (Tg) typically around 145-150°C,
which is higher than many other plastics.
4.Flame Resistance: Polycarbonate has good flame resistance properties, and it can self-
extinguish when the heat source is removed. It is often used in electrical and electronic
applications.
5.Chemical Resistance: PC is resistant to many chemicals, including oils and greases. It can be
used in applications where exposure to various chemicals is a concern.
6.Dimensional Stability: Polycarbonate exhibits low levels of shrinkage during cooling after
processing, resulting in parts with good dimensional stability and accuracy
Properties
Polycarbonate (PC) is a versatile engineering thermoplastic known for its unique
combination of characteristics .
While polycarbonate has many advantages, it also has limitations, such as susceptibility to
scratching and potential yellowing with prolonged exposure to UV radiation. The specific
characteristics of PC can vary depending on the grade, additives, and processing
conditions used.

Applications
1.Transparent Windows and Lenses: PC's excellent optical clarity and impact resistance make it a preferred
material for applications that require transparent windows and lenses, such as eyeglasses, safety goggles,
and camera lenses.
2.Safety Equipment: PC is used in the production of safety equipment, including face shields, helmet visors,
and safety glasses, where its impact resistance is crucial for protection.
3.Automotive Components: PC is used for various automotive components, such as headlight lenses,
taillight covers, interior trim, and instrument panels, where its impact resistance and optical properties are
advantageous.
Processing Technique
1.Injection Molding: Injection molding is one of the most common methods for processing PC. In this
process, PC resin pellets or granules are heated until they become molten and then injected into a
mold cavity. After cooling and solidification, the part takes the shape of the mold. Injection molding is
suitable for mass production of parts with complex geometries, such as automotive components,
optical lenses, and consumer goods.
2.Extrusion: PC can be processed through extrusion, where it is melted and forced through a die to
produce continuous profiles, sheets, or rods. This method is used for manufacturing items like PC
sheets, profiles, pipes, and tubes.
3.Thermoforming: Thermoforming involves heating a PC sheet until it becomes pliable and then
stretching it over a mold or form. Once the material cools and hardens, it retains the shape of the
mold. Thermoforming is used for producing items like packaging, automotive interior components, and
signage.
4.Compression Molding: Compression molding involves placing PC pellets or sheets into a mold and then
subjecting them to heat and pressure until they take the shape of the mold. It is often used for
producing lenses and optical components.
5.Blow Molding: Blow molding is used to produce hollow or large parts. It involves heating a parison (a
hollow tube of PC) and then blowing air into it to expand it .
Thank You