Polycarbonate Solid vs. Acrylic: Comparing Plastic Materials for Industry

At Klar, we understand how important it is to choose the right material for every project. That’s why we’ve prepared a detailed comparison between two of the most widely used plastics in the industry: solid polycarbonate and acrylic.

Impact Resistance

One of the most significant differences between polycarbonate and acrylic is their ability to withstand impact. Acrylic is about 17 times more impact resistant than glass, making it a robust option for many applications. However, polycarbonate goes far beyond: it is 250 times stronger than glass and approximately 40 times stronger than acrylic. This makes polycarbonate the preferred material in applications where durability and safety are critical, such as protective barriers and safety shields.

Light Transmission

Clarity and light transmission are essential in architecture and design. Acrylic stands out by transmitting up to 92% of visible light, making it ideal for showcases, signage, and windows where maximum transparency is required. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, offers an excellent 89.2% light transmission, slightly lower but more than sufficient for most industrial and commercial uses.

Rigidity and Flexibility

Acrylic is known for its rigidity — it is less flexible but easier to cut and shape into specific forms, which is an advantage when a firm structure is needed. Polycarbonate, however, is more flexible and less prone to chipping or cracking, making it ideal for applications that require bending, forming, or impact absorption without the risk of fracture.

Applications

Each material has its own field of application.

- Acrylic is commonly used in showcases, signage, displays, and projects where transparency and rigidity are most valued.

- Solid Polycarbonate is widely used in industrial projects, protective equipment, visual communication, transparent roofing, and in any application that requires high impact resistance, heat endurance, and long-term durability.