Polycarbonate (PC)

Also called: PC, polycarbonate resin

Polycarbonate (PC) is a clear, very tough engineering plastic used in sheets, lenses, electrical parts and housings, recycled from sheet and moulding scrap.

Polycarbonate (PC) is an amorphous engineering thermoplastic known for high impact strength, transparency and heat resistance. Its density is about 1.2 g/cm3. It falls under resin code 7 (other).

Recycled forms traded

• Sheet offcuts from roofing and glazing, both solid and multiwall.
• Moulding rejects from electrical, lighting and automotive parts.
• Large water bottles, discs and lenses, sold as scrap or regrind, and recycled PC granules.

Why it matters when buying recycled plastic

• PC must be dried well before processing; moisture causes splay marks and loss of strength. Check moisture content.
• Sheet scrap often carries a UV-protective layer or protective film; ask whether the film was removed.
• PC/ABS blends are common in electronics. Confirm it is pure PC if that is what you need, and compare with ABS.
• Check impact strength and clarity on a sample.

Common uses

Roofing and glazing sheet, lighting covers, electrical enclosures, switchgear, automotive parts, safety visors and large water bottles.

Clean sheet offcuts with films removed are usually the most valuable PC scrap, while mixed moulded parts need careful sorting and testing.