Polycarbonate PC is a great substrate for bonding with industrial adhesives. Its surface is receptive to adhesive bonding, and bond strength normally exceeds the actual substrate strength (meaning that when you try to pull the joint apart, the substrate breaks before the adhesive joint).
Cyanoacrylate adhesives are often chosen as they develop strength in seconds. Use as little adhesive as necessary between the two substrates to reduce blooming. If appearance is important, choose a low odor, low bloom grade such as Permabond 940. Polycarbonate can be prone to stress cracking, especially if there are significant hoop stresses. Because the adhesive lubricates joining, it can be easy to over-insert a tube into a cylindrical joint. Designing stops or automated manufacturing can reduce stresses.
UV Curable adhesives are also a great choice for polycarbonate bonding. For UV-stabilized plastic, use Permabond UV630 or UV640 UV/visible light cure products. These UV-curable adhesives provide almost invisible bond lines.
Structural Acrylic adhesives are an excellent choice for bonding polycarbonate that will be exposed to the elements. Two-component acrylic adhesives are available in dual cartridges which dispense through a static mix nozzle to ensure proper mixing.
Two-Component Epoxy adhesives also bond polycarbonate. For flexible bonds, Modified Epoxies such as MT3809 may be the best solution.
In summary, there are many adhesive choices for bonding polycarbonate. Contact our technical team for a product recommendation for your application.
1. Providing the surface is clean and dry and free from contamination,
Polycarbonate can be bonded “As Received”.
2. If you do wish to do a solvent wipe before bonding or for clean up
afterward, use isopropanol or Permabond Cleaner A; acetone is too aggressive and can attack the plastic.
Polycarbonate Properties:
Surface energy: 42mJ/m²
Maximum service temperature: 115°C
Softening temperature: 147°C
Normally transparent / clear
