🧩 PMMA+PC – Polymethyl Methacrylate + Polycarbonate
(High-quality optical and structural blend, combining the clarity and gloss of acrylic (PMMA) with the mechanical and thermal resistance of polycarbonate (PC). Frequently used in headlights, transparent covers, and premium automotive decorative parts.)
🔹 What is PMMA+PC
PMMA+PC is a technical transparent blend obtained by combining PMMA (acrylic) and PC (polycarbonate).
This combination offers the clarity of glass but with toughness, flexibility, and impact resistance superior to pure PMMA. The material is UV-stable, heat-resistant, and ideal for optical, decorative, or technical parts requiring transparency and durability.
🔧 Composition
- PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate): 30–60 %
- PC (Polycarbonate): 40–70 %
- UV / Thermal / Elastomer Additives: 1–3 %
- Density: 1.17–1.20 g/cm³
- Softening Point: ≈ 220–240 °C
- UV Resistance: Very good (superior to simple PC).
- Transparency: 88–92 %.
🚗 Where PMMA+PC is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Headlights / Taillights | Lenses, covers, diffusers | Excellent clarity and impact resistance |
| Exterior Decorative | Frames, sensor covers | High gloss and durability |
| Premium Interior | Frames, glossy panels | Smooth surface, scratch-resistant |
| Tech-Optical | Light guides, LED housings | Superior thermal stability and clarity |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temperature | Observations |
| Hot Air | 250 – 270 °C | Uniform weld without matting |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 240 – 260 °C | Clean joint, no optical bubbles |
| Manual Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Suitable for long cracks |
🔩 What to Weld PMMA+PC With (Material Compatibility)
PMMA+PC has excellent compatibility with acrylic and polycarbonate blends.
✅ Compatible with:
- PMMA+PC ↔ PC / PMMA / PC+ABS / PC+ASA / PMMA+ABS / ASA+PMMA – ideal.
- PMMA+PC ↔ PC+PBT / PC+PET / PC+PPSU – good bond.
❌ Incompatible with:
- PP, PE, PA, PVC, PS, TPO, simple ABS – different melting points.
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation:
Use PMMA+PC rods or transparent PC rods at 255–270 °C. Heat uniformly and avoid overheating the PMMA zone (which may turn matte). For optical repairs, apply a fine polish or a short hot air pass to restore gloss.
🏭 Manufacturers and Trade Names
- SABIC: Lexan® ClearBlend / Cycoloy® PC-PMMA
- Covestro: Makroblend® PC-PMMA / Makrolon® DP
- LG Chem: LUPOY® PC+PMMA
- Trinseo: Pulse™ PC-PMMA
🧠 How to Identify PMMA+PC
- Engraved marking: >PMMA+PC<, >PC/PMMA<, >Makroblend<, >Lexan Blend<.
- Glossy surface, transparent, rigid.
- Softens at ≈ 250 °C, uniform melting.
- Yellow-blue flame, faint acrylic scent.
- Highly resistant to impact and cracking.
- ReplastMD practical test: If the part is clear, rigid, but slightly flexible and marked >PMMA+PC<, it is a confirmed technical optical blend.
🛠️ PMMA+PC Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional PMMA+PC welding for premium lenses and optical housings, ensuring a clear, crack-free, and aesthetic finish.