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Polycarbonate

The best adhesive for Polycarbonate is typically High-Strength Epoxy, with good bond strength. As a plastic material, Polycarbonate has unique bonding characteristics that require specific adhesive selection. Common applications include eyewear,electronics,glazing.

Bonding Polycarbonate requires understanding its unique surface properties and chemical characteristics. As a plastic material, Polycarbonate presents specific challenges that can be overcome with the right adhesive selection and proper surface preparation techniques. This comprehensive guide provides expert recommendations, bond strength data, and step-by-step instructions to achieve strong, durable bonds with Polycarbonate.

Material Properties & Characteristics

Polycarbonate exhibits medium surface energy, which allows for good adhesion when proper surface preparation is performed. The none nature of Polycarbonate presents bonding considerations that depend on surface preparation and adhesive selection. As a rigid material, Polycarbonate benefits from rigid adhesives that provide maximum structural strength and dimensional stability. The medium chemical resistance of Polycarbonate requires adhesives compatible with its chemical composition and environmental exposure conditions. Understanding these fundamental properties is essential for selecting the appropriate adhesive and surface preparation method.

Surface Preparation Best Practices

Achieving strong, durable bonds with Polycarbonate depends heavily on proper surface preparation. Begin by cleaning all bonding surfaces with appropriate cleaners to remove dirt, oils, and surface contaminants. Ensure surfaces are at room temperature (15-25°C or 60-80°F) for optimal bonding conditions. Temperature extremes can affect adhesive flow, wetting, and cure times. Apply adhesive within minutes of surface preparation to prevent recontamination from dust, moisture, or oils. Proper surface preparation significantly improves bond strength, durability, and long-term performance.

Surface Preparation Guide

Proper surface preparation is critical for achieving strong, durable bonds with Polycarbonate. Follow these steps:

  1. Clean with soap and water or degreaser to remove dirt and oils
  2. Dry thoroughly before applying adhesive
  3. Ensure surfaces are at room temperature (60-80°F) for optimal bonding
  4. Apply adhesive within minutes of surface preparation for best results

Basic Information

Category

plastic

Surface Energy

medium

Surface Type

non-porous

Flexibility

rigid

Porosity

none

Chemical Resistance

medium

Chemical Information

CAS Number

25037-45-0

Trade Names

Lexan,Makrolon

Aliases

pc

Chemical Composition

  • polycarbonate (100%)

Common Uses

eyewear,electronics,glazing

Best Adhesives for Polycarbonate

High-Strength Epoxygood

Strength: 1000 PSI

Fiber-Reinforced Epoxygood

Strength: 900 PSI

Flexible Epoxygood

Strength: 900 PSI

Polyurethane Wood Gluegood

Strength: 700 PSI

Cyanoacrylate Super Gluegood

Strength: 700 PSI

Gorilla Glue (Polyurethane)good

Strength: 700 PSI

Instant Gluegood

Strength: 600 PSI

Acrylic Adhesivegood

Strength: 600 PSI

Epoxy Resin Adhesivegood

Strength: 600 PSI