Material library / Plastic
Polycarbonate
Highest impact strength for extreme-duty applications.
67 MPa
Tensile Strength
2.3 GPa
Flexural Modulus
138–150 °C
Heat Deflection Temp
0.1–0.3 mm
Layer Resolution
1.20 g/cm³
Density
100 %
Elongation at Break
Polycarbonate (PC) is one of the strongest FDM materials available - it is the material used in bulletproof glass and safety helmets. It combines outstanding impact resistance with a high heat deflection temperature, making it suitable for structural components in demanding environments.
Advantages
- Highest impact strength of standard FDM materials
- Optically transparent in natural colour
- Excellent heat resistance up to 150 °C
- Good dimensional stability
Limitations
- Requires very high print temperatures (270–310 °C)
- High warp tendency - requires enclosure and specialized bed adhesion
Applications
Printing tips
Print PC at 270–310 °C on a bed at 110–130 °C. A fully enclosed, heated chamber printer is required. Use polycarbonate-specific bed adhesives. First layer speed should not exceed 15 mm/s.
Polycarbonate FAQ
- Is polycarbonate food-safe?
- Standard PC is not certified food-safe for long-term food contact due to potential BPA traces and the porous nature of FDM prints. Contact us for food-safe certified alternatives.
Related materials
Ready to print in Polycarbonate? The quote page prices it against your actual geometry, so you know the real cost before you commit.
Upload a file & quote Polycarbonate