What are PC Granules

In industries such as construction, transport and electrical and electronics, there is a growing demand for engineering plastics with high transparency and excellent weather resistance. As a polycarbonate material developed specifically for sheet applications, Covestro's PC granules, model makrolon ET3113, have been used in a wide range of high-performance scenarios due to their excellent optical properties, UV resistance, mechanical strength, and suitability for thermoforming processing. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the material's key properties, typical applications, processing and its technical competitiveness in the global market.

01 | Core Advantages of PC granules: Why PC Makrolon ET3113?

High Light Transmission, Excellent Stability: Both Optical and UV Resistance

  ・PC ET3113 has excellent light transmission (transmittance of 87%~89%) and very low haze (less than 0.8%), providing a highly clear visual experience for transparent panels, which is especially suitable for lighting skylights, LED light boxes, advertising displays, etc. PC granules are particularly suitable for light skylights, LED light boxes, advertising displays, etc., where optical performance is critical.

  ・PC granules contain highly effective anti-UV additives, which can effectively resist the yellowing and performance degradation caused by ultraviolet rays, ensuring that the panels maintain their appearance and functional stability after long-term outdoor use.

Outstanding impact and puncture resistance

  ・Makrolon ET3113 has a cantilever beam notched impact strength of 70 kJ/m² and good toughness even at temperatures as low as -30°C, making it particularly suitable for safety barriers and protective applications. Its puncture resistance of 5,600 N (23°C) makes it suitable for industrial scenarios where physical strength is critical.

High Temperature Resistance and Dimensional Stability

  ・The PC granules have a heat deflection temperature of 128°C under a load of 1.8 MPa and a Vicat softening point of nearly 150°C, which meets the need for stable use of the sheet in high-temperature environments. In addition, its low shrinkage (0.6%~0.8%) ensures good dimensional consistency after moulding and reduces the risk of warping and deformation.

Flame retardant performance meets international certification

  ・Makrolon ET3113 has passed UL94 V-2 and HB flame retardant rating tests, with an oxygen index of 28%, and has the potential to be used in construction, transport and other areas with special requirements for fire safety.

02 | Multiple Application Scenarios: Typical Uses of PC ET3113

Makrolon ET3113 is particularly suitable for the production of various types of high-transparent sheets by extrusion or injection moulding, and the main applications include:

  ・Construction: light roofing, wave panels, greenhouse cladding, security storm panels;

  ・Transport facilities: noise barriers for high-speed rail and metro, cabin decorative panels, bus lighting covers;

  ・Advertising and display: LED light box, signage, exhibition panels;

  ・Industrial protection: equipment guards, safety windows, explosion-proof isolation panels and so on.

03 | Process Compatibility: Processing Guide for Makrolon ET3113 Sheet

This PC granules supports both extrusion moulding and injection moulding processes with a good processing window:

  ・Extrusion moulding: It is recommended to control the screw temperature between 280~300℃, with a slight cooling of the die head to prevent degradation, suitable for continuous production of all kinds of sheets.

  ・Injection moulding: Melt temperatures of 300 to 320°C are recommended for sheet parts with complex structures.

  ・Drying conditions: It is recommended to dry at 120℃ for more than 4 hours before processing to prevent moisture from causing bubbles, silvering and other apparent defects.

04 | Analysis of the core performance of Makrolon granules

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05 | Technical and Market Advantages: What makes PC ET3113 stand out?

UV stability better than industry average

Compared to conventional PC granules, Makrolon ET3113 improves UV ageing performance by more than 50%, extending its service life outdoors by 3 to 5 years, making it particularly suitable for architectural applications in high sunlight areas.

The preferred material for balancing economy and performance

Compared with PMMA (acrylic), PC ET3113 has better impact toughness while maintaining high transparency. Compared with glass, it is lighter in weight, easier to install and safer, making it a suitable replacement for traditional materials.

Green Compliance, Promoting Sustainable Applications

Makrolon ET3113 is compliant with EU RoHS, REACH and other environmental regulations, and is recyclable, making it an ideal material choice for companies to achieve their green building and sustainable procurement goals.

06 | PC granules application verification: feedback cases from customers around the world

European greenhouse project: a building customer used PC ET3113 to manufacture roof panels, and after five years, the optical transmittance rate is still maintained at more than 85%, with no yellowing or embrittlement.

China High Speed Rail Project: Makrolon ET3113 was used as a noise barrier material and passed the strong wind pressure test, the installation efficiency was increased by 30% compared to glass and significantly reduced the transport and labour costs.

07 | Alternatives

08 | Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How thick is PC ET3113 suitable for producing panels?
A: Makrolon ET3113 is suitable for thicknesses ranging from 1mm to 4mm, and can meet both light transmission and strength requirements.

Q2: How long does the UV resistance last?
A: In typical outdoor applications, it can be maintained for at least 5 years without significant yellowing, depending on the environment.

Q3: Is it possible to improve the scratch resistance of the surface?
A: Wear and scratch resistance can be enhanced by adding AR coating or adopting surface hardening technology.

Q4: Does it support colour customization?
A: PC granules can be modified in a variety of colours, subject to a comprehensive assessment of whether optical and flame retardant properties will be affected.

09 | Our Advantage: Reasons to choose us as a PC granules supplier

As an official authorised partner of Costron, we provide global customers with:

✅ Authenticity Guarantee: direct sourcing of original PC granules with traceable quality;

✅ Professional support: provide material selection advice and processing technology guidance;

✅ Flexible delivery: support global DDP/DAP delivery, covering Europe, America, Southeast Asia and other markets;

✅ Customisation capability: support customised services such as small batch dyeing, UV resistance and anti-static.

Conclusion

PC ET3113 provides reliable solutions for transparent sheet applications in multiple fields with its high transparency, UV resistance, structural strength and process compatibility. Whether you're looking to replace glass, upgrade PMMA, or create new components with more design and functionality, Makrolon ET3113 can help you get your innovation off the ground.

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