Polycarbonate panels are a versatile and durable substitute for glass or acrylic, with uses ranging from UV-protective sunglasses to bulletproof windows. They are impact-resistant, flame-retardant, and recyclable, and come in various grades for specific uses. Farmers and home decorators have found many uses for them, from agricultural outbuildings to lightweight room dividers.
Polycarbonate panels are made from a hard plastic polymer substance known as bisphenol A (BPA). Polycarbonate is an excellent substitute for glass or acrylic, and there are a multitude of uses for polycarbonate panels. From the thin plastic lenses found in UV-protective sunglasses, to the thick bulletproof windows used in security vehicles, these panels play an important role in safety and environmental protection.
Polycarbonate plastic is mouldable, durable, lightweight, flame retardant, unbreakable, and energy efficient. One of its best properties is impact resistance, which can be more than 200 times higher than tempered glass. Polycarbonate panels are extremely resistant to atmospheric agents, do not yellow in the sun and are recyclable. Ribbed polycarbonate sheets are often installed on walkways, patios and terraces to filter and reduce ultraviolet sunlight, as well as provide protection from rain and snow. They are also used in fences, providing a secure and virtually indestructible barrier.
Polycarbonate sheets can be transparent like glass, translucent or completely opaque, depending on the specific use. Panels can be flat or corrugated, rigid or flexible, thick or thin. Manufacturers offer various grades of glazing for polycarbonate panels designed for specific uses. There are glass types that provide static control and fire resistance for use around combustible materials, as well as signal grade, bulletproof, hurricane resistant, and many other glass grades.
Farmers and ranchers have found many good uses for polycarbonate panels. Hard plastic is often used as a structural material for energy-efficient agricultural outbuildings and greenhouses. Barns topped with corrugated paneling are a common sight on horse farms and cow ranches. Hard plastic panels can also be installed as skylights in a barn to provide a source of natural light during daylight hours. Additionally, the polycarbonate sheets can be installed vertically to serve as wall units. Semi-opaque plastic walls allow light and heat to reach horses, cows and other farm animals, while obscuring the outside view.
Home decorators have also discovered some nice uses for panels made from this type of plastic. BPA free plastics are manufactured in a variety of colors and design textures and can be cut to fit any size. Plastic panels can be installed as lightweight room dividers or fitted into kitchen cabinet doors as an alternative to breakable glass. The uses are virtually limitless, and manufacturers and consumers come up with new ways to use polycarbonate panels nearly every day.
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