Term: Polycarbonate

Category: Substrates

Definition: Polycarbonate (PC) is a synthetic polymer. It is clear, strong, and stable, and can handle heat well. It does not easily absorb water, so it often needs special treatments to improve how it sticks to other surfaces and to make it more suitable for medical use. 

Structure: Amorphous polymer consisting of repeating bisphenol-A carbonate units linked through carbonate groups (–O–(C=O)–O–) forming a rigid, transparent backbone.

Source: Made from materials derived from petroleum.

Common Uses: 

• Medical device cases
• Blood oxygenator parts
• Microfluidic chips
• Syringes
• Connectors
• Diagnostic tools
• Protective eyewear
• Lab equipment
• Optical parts
• Used where strong coatings are needed.

Related Content and Resources: 

Unlocking the Future with Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate Power: Unveiling its Strengths

Hydrophilic Coatings For Medical Device Substrates