Performance Comparison Analysis of PC Sheets and Acrylic Sheets
1.PC Sheets vs. Acrylic Sheets: Comprehensive Analysis of Performance Differences and Application Scenarios
As a company with 16 years of expertise in PC sheet production, this article analyzes the performance differences and suitable applications of PC sheets and acrylic sheets based on practical experience.
2.Core Performance Comparison
(1)Light Transmission & Optical Performance
Acrylic achieves 92%-95% light transmission (approaching optical glass), but PC sheets offer superior outdoor durability (10-year light transmission loss only 10%, while acrylic may yellow within two years).
(2)Mechanical Strength
PC sheets demonstrate significantly higher impact resistance (3mm withstands hail, 6mm reaches bulletproof grade), while acrylic has a Mohs hardness of 3-4 and is prone to scratching.
(3)Temperature and Environmental Tolerance
PC sheets withstand temperatures from -40°C to 120°C without brittle fracture at low temperatures (e.g., Mohe); acrylic remains stable at room temperature but becomes vulnerable at low temperatures.
3.Processing and Application Compatibility
(1)Cutting and Forming
Acrylic is easy to process (laser cutting yields smooth edges; thermoforming possible at 100°C). PC sheets require precision techniques (waterjet cutting; thermoforming requires temperatures above 150°C with controlled cooling).
(2)Bonding and Treatment
Acrylic bonds easily with chloroform; PC sheets require polyurethane adhesive (higher cost) and require corona treatment before printing.
(3)Typical Applications
Acrylic is suitable for display (e.g., luxury storefronts); PC sheets serve safety applications (riot shields, sound barriers), maintaining shape for a decade with low maintenance costs.
4.Cost and Environmental Dimensions
(1)Unit Price and Lifecycle Cost
Acrylic has lower unit cost , but PC sheets offer lower lifecycle cost (15-year service life, 40% lower annual cost).
(2)Environmental Impact & Carbon Footprint
PC sheets achieve over 85% recycling rates, while acrylic faces restrictions in Europe and America. Though PC production consumes 20% more energy, its lifespan is three times longer than acrylic, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40%.
Material selection hinges on application: Choose acrylic for light transmission and display, PC for safety and durability. Sixteen years of industry experience demonstrate PC sheets' superior overall performance—recommended as the preferred choice.