Transparent solid polycarbonate has revolutionized the way we view light, safety, and building design. This material combines the clarity of glass with an impact resistance over two hundred times greater, weighs only half as much, and easily bends when cold.
Curved stadium roofs, atrium domes, pedestrian walkways, or balcony railings can all be quickly constructed without massive scaffolding or the risk of cracking from hail. Additionally, the extended double UV layer ensures that the surface remains clear for years, even in areas with strong solar radiation.
Transparent Solid Polycarbonate vs. Acrylic Sheets: Similarities, Differences, and Choices
Transparent solid polycarbonate and acrylic sheets are often placed in the same category. However, their purpose and structural behavior differ significantly.
Impact Resistance
Solid polycarbonate absorbs strong mechanical shocks without cracking.
Acrylic sheets are more rigid but may fracture under heavy impact.
Optical Clarity
Both materials exceed 90% light transmission at small thicknesses, but polycarbonate maintains its transparency even after years of exposure, thanks to the UV protection on both sides offered by Pintaplast.
Processing and Bending
Polycarbonate can be cold-bent to a minimum radius equal to the thickness multiplied by 200. Acrylic sheets require controlled heating and additional cooling time. On-site, this time difference means lower costs if you opt for solid polycarbonate.
Weight and Transport
Both materials are three times lighter than glass, reducing the number of joints in large skylights. Pintaplast delivers pre-cut panels to size, saving you from unnecessary waste and dust on site.
Choosing the Right Thickness, Color, and Texture
For a project to meet both safety and aesthetic standards, you need to adjust thickness and finish.
Recommended Thicknesses:
|
Application |
Thickness (mm) |
Notes |
|
Commercial Canopies |
3–4 |
Lightweight, easy to bend |
|
Exterior Railings |
8–10 |
High impact resistance |
|
Industrial Skylights |
6–8 |
Allows large openings without frequent framing |
|
Sound Barriers |
12–15 |
Optional Silent-Sound variant |
Colors and Textures
Pintaplast’s solid polycarbonate comes in a wide range of translucent and opaque colors. For a terrace roof, use the opal version with 40% light transmission. Shadows are pleasant, and temperatures drop by 5 °C on hot days.
Edge Details
For public spaces, choose Non-Scratch panels. The hard layer increases scratch resistance threefold compared to standard panels.
Important Tips:
- Check the snow load in the area; add 2 mm thickness if it exceeds 100 kg/m².
- For domes, order radial CNC-cut panels directly from Pintaplast.
- Do not forget the UV protection film side-out; this extends the warranty to 10 years.
Mounting Techniques: From Cold Bending to Sealed Joints
Proper installation makes the difference between a durable project and one with leaks after the first winter.
Structure Preparation
- Observe the minimum bending radius specified in the technical sheet.
- Use anodized aluminum H and U profiles with EPDM gaskets.
- Allow for 3 mm per meter expansion for thermal dilation.
Panel Fastening
- Stainless steel screws with gaskets; do not overtighten.
- For sound barriers, fix on rubber dampers to avoid vibrations.
Sealing and UV Protection
Pintaplast provides pre-applied sealing tapes, ensuring that dust and insects do not penetrate between the panel and profile. The UV layer remains facing outward, as indicated by the marked protective film, which should only be removed after installation.
Steps for Cold Bending
- Draw the radius on a plywood template.
- Secure one end and curve slowly without impacts.
- Lock the shape in profiles; polycarbonate retains its curvature without negative memory.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Drilling too close to the edge
- Cutting with abrasive disks (melts the edge)
- Mounting the panel with the UV layer facing inward
Inspiring Applications and Long-Term Benefits
Transparent solid polycarbonate opens up a vast range of applications in construction and design.
Roofs and Skylights
- Stadiums and stations: 6 mm crystal panels on large-span metal beams.
- Residential pergolas: 4 mm opal sheets mounted on laminated wood beams.
Facades and Pedestrian Walkways
Facade cladding with colored panels creates spectacular light effects during the day and a lantern effect at night when the building is lit from the inside.
Railings and Technical Floors
15 mm solid polycarbonate, secured in stainless steel profiles, withstands point pressure without breaking, offering maximum safety and panoramic transparency.
Sound Barriers
The Silent-Sound version offers noise reduction of up to 32 dB. It is ideal for highways or railway zones.
Key Benefits:
- Excellent light transmission = savings on artificial lighting.
- Reduced weight = thinner metal structures and lower foundation costs.
- Fire resistance = complies with European standards for public buildings.
- 100% recyclable = can be reused at the end of its life cycle.
Transparent solid polycarbonate is the material that unites clarity, safety, and design freedom in a single panel. By choosing the right thickness, proper installation, and professional accessories from our range, your project will shine both literally and figuratively.
Do you have a project on paper and want to see it come to life? Contact us for free technical consultation, custom cutting, and fast delivery anywhere in the country!
