All about monolithic polycarbonate: that these are characteristics, types, features of application and installation

Because of its durability and transparency, monolithic polycarbonate is a versatile material that is frequently used in construction. It is impact-resistant and lightweight compared to conventional glass, which makes it perfect for a variety of uses where strength and visibility are essential. This material, which is made of a single layer, has excellent clarity that is on par with glass but also offers advantages like UV protection and thermal insulation.

Monolithic polycarbonate sheets come in a variety of forms, each meeting a particular purpose. Clear sheets are frequently used for protective barriers, skylights, and greenhouses where transparency is crucial. Conversely, opal or frosted sheets offer a diffused light, which makes them appropriate for uses such as covering interior lighting fixtures or privacy screens. Colored sheets also provide aesthetic versatility, as they can be used for architectural accents or signage.

Monolithic polycarbonate is a versatile material with applications in many different industries. It is used as a roofing material in construction to provide natural light and weather resistance for both residential and commercial buildings. Because of its impact resistance and lightweight nature, it is also used in the manufacturing of protective barriers, such as safety shields in industrial settings.

For maximum longevity and performance, there are several important steps involved in the installation of monolithic polycarbonate sheets. To support the weight and stress placed on the sheets, especially in locations vulnerable to wind or snow loads, proper framing and support structures are essential. In order to stop leaks and properly secure the sheets, sealing and fastening techniques also need to be carefully chosen. By being aware of these factors, one can make sure that monolithic polycarbonate adds long-lasting functionality and protection to a structure while also improving its aesthetic appeal.

Characteristics:	Monolithic polycarbonate is known for its high impact resistance, transparency similar to glass, and lightweight nature.
Types:	It comes in various thicknesses and colors, with UV protection options available.
Features of Application:	Commonly used in roofing, greenhouse construction, and for skylights due to its durability and light transmission properties.
Installation:	Installed using special profiles and fasteners, ensuring proper sealing and support for different structural designs.

Monolithic polychatonate in modern construction

The most widely used monolithic polycarbonate is in demand for roofing and glazing applications. Their strength will directly depend on how different the sheet is from one another.

Thus, it ranges from 2 to 12 mm among home manufacturers and from 1 to 20 mm among European manufacturers. Additionally, the panels can be used in a specific area based on their strength and thickness:

Monolithic polycarbonate makes especially stunning verandas and summer cafes. In the end, the extension is ultimately much more impact-resistant while still remaining just as clear and brilliant as glass (at first glance, it is even harder to tell the difference).

Crushing the most exquisite designs is the same ball of kids playing in the yard. Furthermore, this is dangerous for the tea on the veranda!

Thus, instead of using glasses, why not use this sturdy material and experiment with color? (bronze or simply darkened perfectly harmonizes with wooden or log walls). Simultaneously, it is sufficient to block the sun from the portion facing south, rather than completely obscure the walls and roof:

It may interest you to know that a German physicist was the one who patented monolithic polycarbonate, which first appeared in the middle of the 20th century. Furthermore, the impressive amount of polycarbonates produced globally today surpasses 100,000 tons!

This material is unique in that it is light, transparent (like glass), and nearly impervious to impact. Simultaneously, monolithic polycarbonate is 10 and 180 times stronger than an organic system. These qualities enable the successful use of such polycarbonate in the development of anti-vandal structures today.

Naturally, monolithic polycarbonate has far less capacity to retain heat than cellular polycarbonate does because it lacks internal honeycombs. However, because the deflection’s radius is larger, you can use it to create stunning structures:

Advantages and disadvantages of "plastic glass"

Let us enumerate the primary distinctions between cellular monolithic polycarbonate and its counterparts:

1. Transparency. Monolithic polycarbonate, unlike cellular, looks more rich. And, at the same time, it loses in this aspect: the honeycombs allow you to gently dissipate the light, and the monolithic sheet passes all the direct sunlight (therefore not very suitable for the construction of the greenhouse, t.To. Plants get burns).
2. Noise insulation. Polycarbonate is also famous for its high sound -absorbing properties. It is you who often see as fences of residential buildings from a noisy route, airport and production.
3. Fire safety. Another pleasant bonus: monolithic polycarbonate is difficult to ignite, and from a group of self -extinguishing polymers.
4. Durability. Stake monolith (as it is often called builders for convenience) and to chemical compounds. He withstands the temperature from -40 to +120s.
5. Sustainability. Even under extreme conditions, monolithic polycarbonate does not change its structure and does not deform, and therefore shows itself from the best side both in hot and frosty climate. Although usually building materials behave in different conditions in a completely different way.
6. Anti -vandal properties. Monolithic polycarbonate is so durable that it is used even for anti -jacket windows and personal protective equipment.
7. Environmental friendliness. And finally, products from monolithic polycarbonate are not only durable, but also processed if necessary. And this is a plus for everyone who is not indifferent to the future of our planet.

Here’s a more thorough video analysis of this material’s attributes:

Even so, it is immediately apparent that there is disagreement over the complete transparency of monolithic polycarbonate. Regretfully, it will still get minor scratches after a few seasons.

It is less obvious when this occurs with cellular technology. It mostly relies on the handling of the material. A roof of this type will have scratches if the snow is severed. Consequently, the kind of polycarbonate that a neighbor has access to may deter someone from wanting to purchase it for themselves, which is incorrect:

Quality questions: what to expect in a couple of years?

At first, monolithic polycarbonate dominated the global market because it was the strongest transparent material available, and it deservedly won first place. Their glazing over attic and balcony spaces, advertising shields, covered greenhouses, and even the metro station entrance are not random.

However, regrettably, monolithic polycarbonate frequently rejects the idea of being used in private construction when they notice a muddy and cracked material at the balcony’s visors or stops, even though the material is only two to five years old.

In actuality, low-quality Chinese polycarbonate that is far less expensive than the original is almost always used on state and street buildings.

When it comes to strength, after all, even for an advertising installation involving money, a monolithic polycarbonate of enhanced strength was utilized as a step in the advertising process, after which you could easily retrieve the full amount. And not even the most resourceful among them could use hammers or deliver a powerful footstrike! What follows then? The explanation is straightforward: like any plastic that isn’t protected from the sun, such a polychatonal simply gets destroyed by it.

All regulations state that this kind of protection ought to be applied as a thin layer on a sheet using the coexstrusia technique. However, some sales organizations demonstrate that the polycarbonate’s very mass provides UV protection. What raises some questions: is this level of technology excessive?

Yes, there is such a polychatonal, and it can contain up to 30% of its volume in granules! However, the cost of this material is high; this is undoubtedly not the case if you get a cheap polycarbonate for your veranda at a bargain price.

Actually, the Tolik of Pravda has arrived as producers add a mildly UV stabilizing agent to the polycarbonate raw material granules. Sheets will be saved during extended storage. However, because of its extremely low concentration, this substance cannot provide complete protection.

Yes, they were first made aware that polycarbonate needed to be shielded from ultraviolet light back in the 1970s. Subsequently, stabilizer was added to the granules; however, almost all manufacturers subsequently gave up on this method in favor of extrusion due to its high cost and unreliability. Additionally, specimens that have up to now directly added up to 30% protection to granules are available for specific tasks and have a 25-year shelf life!

Furthermore, things go wrong with regular polycarbonate when there is no protective layer present. Rays that interact with polymers in the ultraviolet spectrum cause reactions that lead to the destruction of macromolecules. Put simply, over time, the polymers themselves break down and become fragile. This is the reason a thin layer of light stabilizer—only 35 to 60 microns—is applied to a monolithic sheet during its manufacturing.

This kind of layer is adequate to ensure the coating’s longevity. However, the thickness of this nearly invisible layer is not apparent to the naked eye. Consequently, the seller will need to be believed by roughly the number of microns.

In addition, if you have been duped, get ready for the reality that a sheet will only last a year without UV protection and a shorter period of time—just five years—if it is protected. These are the exact same sheets that have tiny holes all over them after the first city (people love to share their photos on social media).

This is how it should be: monolithic materials shield against UV radiation from both sides, whereas cellular polycarbonate shields against them from just one side. Even though this layer is very thin—only 50–80 microns—it nevertheless gives the sheet extra hardness:

I know what you’re thinking: why is a UV protective film covering the sheet on both sides? Ultimately, terraces and gazebos cannot be illuminated from the inside by the sun. The way the manufacturer explains the necessity for two films on both sides of the sheet to prevent these sides from being inadvertently mixed up is rather interesting.

In this instance, polycarbonate won’t last very long, at which point the buyer will go to the seller to file a claim. This method is known as a secret "calculation of the fool" among dealers.

Secondly, the installation is non-wasteful. In order for the sheet to be bent or turned over with the side that is required in any part of the complex structure, a protective film must be present on both sides of the sheet.

Furthermore, there are still instances where the sun truly shines in the wrong direction, such as when fences, transparent buildings, and advertising structures are erected in public spaces. Thus, the entire weight of the sheet is fully protected by the film on both sides. Notably, there are cellular polycarbonate brands that offer bilateral UV protection as well.

"Roofing materials that are versatile, lightweight, and exceptionally clear are monolithic polycarbonate sheets. They are available in a variety of forms, from tinted to clear, to accommodate a range of practical requirements and aesthetic preferences. These sheets are perfect for both residential and commercial applications because of their resistance to impact and weathering, which is why they are frequently used in construction. Monolithic polycarbonate can be used effectively in roofing and skylight projects because of its manageable weight and easy handling, which requires simple techniques for installation. By being aware of these qualities, roofing solutions that are weatherproof, long-lasting, and enhance light quality can be fully realized."

Types of monolithic polycarbonate in color and shape

Let’s now examine the matter of monolithic polycarbonate’s design, specifically its hue and form. These days, the majority of monolithic polycarbonate varieties are made in transparent, white, or bronze hues.

Paint is added directly to the polycarbonate granules, even in factory conditions. Brighter sheets will provide the impression of a holiday and darker sheets will help shield the vacation spot from the harsh sun.

Transparent monolithic polycarbonate, however, is currently the most widely used material and can be used in practically any application. Despite his color, he can make a stunning accent in architectural design if used skillfully. Shades are popular in fashion right now:

A profiled, or shock-resistant transparent slate, is an intriguing variety of monolithic polycarbonate. Although it resembles corrugated board in form, it looks far more amazing. It provides good protection against UV light even though it is transparent. Furthermore, a hailstorm with a diameter of 20 mm will not be able to penetrate such a roof!

A wave or trapezoidal profile was used to create a profiled sheet. This kind of material is ideal for covering arbors, outbuildings, and outdoor spaces. Parking lots, markets, and street lights are in their way. Furthermore, buildings are skinned with profiled polycarbonate in the construction industry.

Evaluate it against a standard flat sheet:

We’ll also tell you about a market for monolithic polycarbonate that is anti-ababralized. It is even more robust and impervious to chemical changes. coated in a unique silicone film that shields the sheet from grinding and scratches. Thus, it is not worth it to worry about how translucent your veranda’s walls will appear in five to seven years.

Such a transparent slate (that’s what it’s called) is known for its exceptional strength and can withstand even a large city because of its structurally more thoughtful form.

But arched polycarbonate is used to create such magnificent pavilions: These magnificent pavilions are created:

Monolithic polycarbonate is formed either hot or cold in the factory. There are also times like this. Thus, a polycarbonate sheet experiences a significant internal voltage during cold molding.

Additionally, it is beneficial if it is decreased by later annealing products. In the end, the sheet is likewise bent at a greater angle than is necessary with the hope that it will still be marginally better. Revendened, T.E.

Furthermore, one of the hot molding techniques is very doable in a domestic setting. Heat the monolith’s sheet and place it on a convex or concave shape to accomplish this. Continue heating until the sheet fails to take on the desired shape when you try to lift it. amazingly straightforward! Naturally, the sheet is heated to a temperature higher than 160 °C during the molding process and then dried to prevent bubbles from extending to the surface. However, for tiny jobs, a hot construction hair dryer will work just fine.

The following is how products made from monolithic polycarbonate are formed cold:

Monolithic polycarbonate as a roof: accurate calculation

Magnificent and dependable terrace and arbor roofs can be made from monolithic polycarbonate. It is highly advised to use monolithic polycarbonate with a step of rafters between 50 and 70 centimeters for a single-sloping, gable roof. At least 5 mm should be used. The roof may sustain damage from snowfall if you use smaller parameters. He won’t break the sheet himself, of course, but there’s a chance he’ll accidentally remove it from fasteners and profiles.

It is not required to use a specific reinforced crate for light polycarbonate, but keep in mind that the roof must be able to sustain the snow load in your area. The typical profiled polycarbonate will be able to support up to 300 kg per square meter at the same time.

To assist you in precisely estimating the potential load on such sheets, we have created the following unique tables:

Regarding the monolithic polycarbonate snow load calculation, you can rest easy knowing that you need to install at least eight millimeters of sheet. However, the cost will be five to six times higher than that of a 10-mm cell.

As a result, the gazebo or terrace roofs still have 5 mm of snow on them, but they also routinely clear the snow and prevent icicles from forming on the roof’s edges. After all, it’s not simple to determine the margin of strength in this situation.

In theory, there will be no load issues if you choose monolithic cellular sheets over others. Ultimately, the sheet has a role to play here, both when the snow likely falls on the same visor and when the weight of the snow causes the fastener sheet to be squeezed out and damaged in the areas where the mount is located.

In the case of the arched roof, polycarbonate with a thickness of 4.6 to 8 mm is required. However, in the event of a flat, even 8–10 mm of polycarbonate will not be able to endure a severe Russian winter with an abundance of snow.

We will immediately dissuade you: do not take a chance if you need a monolithic polycarbonate to set up a small gazebo Il canopy. The wind will cause it to bend repeatedly between 2 and 5 mm.

Cutting and molding polycarbonate panels at home

First, using 3.05×2.05 m parameters, a monolithic polycarbonate is created. You will need to either create a transverse joint or order the required size from the factory through dealers if the roof overhang doesn’t work. Naturally, no one is going to voluntarily undertake the production of a pair of these sheets. After that, you’re on your own to deal.

Nevertheless, we suggest that you order a full sheet at first and avoid soldering or gluing two apart. Ultimately, a roof like that will have the transverse junction issue, which can only be resolved by overwhelming.

In addition, factories never use glue or welding; they only ever make complete sheets. It is in fact too challenging to monitor the accuracy of such intricate technological processes under production conditions.

Additionally, the temperature causes the sheet to distort, destroying any seams. As a result, monolithic polycarbonate is only fused and bonded in industrial settings—not for building—and only for entirely different uses. Polycarbonate sheets are typically 2050 mm wide and 3050 mm long. The factory has extended the length of the sheet to 12 meters as a special order, but no more.

It’s fun to fiddle with the monolithic sheets! Additionally, molding works well with this material to create unique, fashionable forms. A milling machine can be used to create elegantly curved shapes for a range of applications. Metal milling cutters with a sharp cutting angle and a large rear angle of the cutter are used to accomplish this.

One-shaped high-speed steel should be used for the milling cutter:

In this sense, a manual electric milling mill is especially convenient. The content is just fixed on the desktop in this instance. The guide tire, a pre-made plywood template, is used to walk along the drawn contour and cut off a straight piece of sheet. It is sufficient to place it on a sheet and use a milling to circle it. Put on the cutter simultaneously so that it can work with the workpiece without deforming.

Clamps are a reliable way to secure the sheets for drilling or cutting. The felt or polymer gaskets that shield the material are only present between the sheet and the clamp. Wear safety goggles and mittens while working. Of course, polycarbonate is not glass, but it can still break into pieces.

Look like chips that can scratch the sheet throughout the process. Avoid using high-speed steel cutting instruments as they may cause the edges to melt. Also, you can use a regular stationery knife and metal scissors to cut off the required portion of a monolithic sheet:

Other tools that can be used to crowd monolithic polycarbonate include a disc saw, jigsaw, and grinder with diamond disk. Thankfully, end profiles or ribbons are not necessary for monolithic polycarbonate, unlike cellular materials, nor are issues with dirt within honeycombs.

Building materials of great versatility, monolithic polycarbonate sheets are renowned for their remarkable strength and clarity. Because they are made of a single layer of polycarbonate resin, they are extremely robust and impact-resistant. These sheets are available in a range of thicknesses, usually between 4 and 16 mm, which allows for flexibility in applications such as skylights and greenhouse roofing.

Monolithic polycarbonate sheets come in a variety of forms, each ideal for a particular use. Maximum light transmission is a feature of clear sheets, which makes them perfect for spaces where visibility is essential, like industrial glazing or covered walkways. Ideal for partitions or decorative elements, opal or frosted sheets diffuse light to provide privacy while allowing natural light to filter through.

Monolithic polycarbonate’s many applications demonstrate its versatility. Because they are lightweight and simple to install, these sheets are used in architectural designs in addition to traditional roofing. They are preferred because of their resistance to UV rays and resilience to inclement weather, which makes them appropriate for both indoor and outdoor settings.

In order to ensure durability and weather resistance, installation of monolithic polycarbonate sheets requires careful consideration of elements such as expansion joints, support structure, and sealing techniques. Adequate installation methods, such as appropriate fastening and spacing, are essential to avoid problems like stress cracking or buckling over time.

Video on the topic

Installation of monolithic polycarbonate 10mm on a wooden canopy

Monolithic polycarbonate (+cut). Application and technical characteristics

Monolithic polycarbonate.

Fastenies of profiled monolithic polycarbonate

Tips for fasteners of monolithic polycarbonate

Monolithic polycarbonate (+cut). Application and technical characteristics

Monolithic polycarbonate awnings. Installation of thermolents. #Short