Multi-Wall Polycarbonate Hollow Sheet

The Multi-Wall Polycarbonate Hollow Sheet is a high-performance engineering plastic panel widely used across multiple industries due to its unique structural and material properties.

1. Structure and Manufacturing Process

• Multi-Wall Hollow Design: Typically features 2–4 layers of parallel rib structures with sealed air chambers in between (Figure 1). This design mimics a honeycomb structure, optimizing strength-to-weight ratio.

• Material: Composed of polycarbonate (PC) as the base material, with a co-extruded UV protective layer (~50 μm) to prevent aging caused by ultraviolet radiation.

• Manufacturing Process: Produced via extrusion molding to ensure interlayer bonding strength and uniform thickness (common thickness: 4–16 mm).

2. Core Properties and Data

• Lightweight & High Strength: Density ~1.2 g/cm³, impact resistance 200× that of glass and 30× that of acrylic, with a flexural modulus of 2000–2500 MPa.

• Thermal Insulation: Thermal conductivity of 0.2 W/(m·K). Double-layer hollow sheets reduce energy consumption by over 50% compared to single-layer glass.

• Light Transmission: 80–90% light transmittance; available in frosted or transparent finishes. UV coating blocks 99% of ultraviolet rays.

• Temperature Resistance: Stable performance from -40°C to 120°C, suitable for extreme climates.

• Noise Reduction: Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) ~0.25, reducing noise by 15–20 dB.

3. Applications and Case Studies

• Construction: Skylights (e.g., airport terminals), noise barriers (highways), safety shields.

• Agricultural Greenhouses: Balances light transmission and insulation; 16 mm thick sheets are widely used in Dutch Venlo-type greenhouses.

• Advertising: LED lightbox panels (lightweight and easy to install), replacing traditional acrylic.

• Industrial Equipment: Machinery guards, acoustic barriers, resistant to oil and impact.

4. Advantages vs. Disadvantages

5. Usage Guidelines

• Installation: Seal with EPDM gaskets; leave expansion space around screw holes. Install with a longitudinal slope ≥5° for drainage.

• Maintenance: Clean with neutral detergents; avoid acetone-based solvents. Inspect sealant aging regularly.

• Fabrication: Cold-bendable (minimum bend radius = 100× sheet thickness). Use circular saws with tungsten carbide blades for cutting.

6. Sustainability and Cost

• Recyclability: PC is recyclable (requires sorted recycling); some manufacturers offer recycling services.

• Lifecycle Cost: Higher initial cost (~¥150–300/m²), but extended lifespan (10–15 years) reduces replacement frequency.

7. Market Trends

• Innovations: Nano-coatings enhance self-cleaning properties; flame-retardant grade reaches B1 (fire-resistant).

• Emerging Applications: PV-integrated greenhouses (combining light transmission and power generation), emergency structures (rapid deployment).

The Multi-Wall Polycarbonate Hollow Sheet, with its comprehensive performance, is poised to replace traditional materials amid growing demands for lightweight and energy-efficient solutions, particularly in green construction and smart agriculture. Selecting appropriate specifications (e.g., thickness, coatings) should align with specific application scenarios and environmental conditions.

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