Why is polycarbonate used?
February 18, 2025
What is POM plastic material used for?
February 19, 2025
PC (Polycarbonate) and FR4 are both commonly used plastic materials, but they have distinct properties and applications. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:
1. Composition
- PC (Polycarbonate): Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic polymer made from bisphenol A and phosgene, known for its strength, transparency, and high-impact resistance.
- FR4: FR4 is a composite material consisting of woven fiberglass cloth impregnated with epoxy resin. It is primarily used as a base material for printed circuit boards (PCBs).
2. Strength and Durability
- PC: Polycarbonate is known for its exceptional impact resistance, making it ideal for applications that require tough, durable material.
- FR4: While FR4 is strong, its primary advantage lies in its electrical insulating properties and stability under varying temperatures, rather than impact resistance.
3. Electrical Properties
- PC: Polycarbonate is a good electrical insulator, but it is not typically used in specialized electrical applications.
- FR4: FR4 is specifically designed for electrical insulation and is widely used in the manufacturing of PCBs, where it offers high electrical insulation and minimal signal interference.
4. Transparency
- PC: Polycarbonate is transparent and can be used in applications where clarity is essential, such as eyewear lenses and protective covers.
- FR4: FR4 is opaque and does not offer transparency, as its primary use is for electrical and structural purposes.
5. Temperature Resistance
- PC: Polycarbonate can withstand moderate heat, but it may degrade at temperatures above 135°C (275°F).
- FR4: FR4 has superior temperature resistance, capable of withstanding up to 130°C (266°F) continuously, with higher thermal resistance in short bursts.
6. Applications
- PC: Used in automotive parts, optical lenses, safety shields, and electronics.
- FR4: Mainly used in the production of PCBs, electrical components, and other applications requiring high thermal and electrical resistance.
In conclusion, while both materials are durable, polycarbonate excels in impact resistance and transparency, while FR4 is more suited for electrical insulation and PCB manufacturing.
