Overview

Polycarbonate (pol-ee-KAR-bun-ate) is a term used both for a specific compound and for a class of compounds with similar chemical structures. The members of this family are made by reacting phosgene (COCl₂) with any compound having two phenol structures. Phenol is hydroxybenzene, C₆H₅OH. The most common polycarbonate is made in the reaction between phosgene and bisphenol A (C₆H₅OHC(CH₃)₂C₆H₅OH). Polycarbonates are sold under a number of trade names, including Cyrolon^®, Lexan^®, Markrolon^®, Merlon^®, Tuffak^®, and Zelux^®.

Polycarbonates are strong, lightweight plastics that are resistant to heat, light, chemicals, and physical shock. They are used in a number of commercial and industrial products ranging from consumer electronics to sporting goods to storage containers.

Key Facts

Formula:

Varies

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Compound Type:

Organic polymer

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

Very large; varies

Melting Point:

Varies

Boiling Point:

Not applicable; decomposes above...