Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet

Highly Transparent  | Water-attracting  |  Thermal Stability ​​​​​​
Anti-fog polycarbonate sheets are engineered to solve visibility issues caused by condensation, combining polycarbonate’s robustness with advanced surface treatments. They are indispensable in industries where clarity, safety, and durability are paramount. When selecting anti-fog PC, consider the type of coating (permanent vs. temporary), environmental conditions, and application-specific requirements.

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet Description

Fogging occurs when water vapor condenses into tiny droplets on a surface due to temperature differences (e.g., warm, humid air contacting a cold surface). These droplets scatter light, creating a hazy or opaque appearance,while anti-fog coating on the sheet will better maintains clarity in high-humidity or rapid temperature changes.
Anti-Fog Polycarbonate Sheet is a specially treated polycarbonate (PC) material designed to prevent condensation (fogging) on its surface, even in humid or temperature-varying environments. It combines the inherent advantages of polycarbonate (e.g., high impact resistance, transparency, and lightweight) with anti-fog properties,making it ideal for applications where clear visibility is critical.
 

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet Properties and Benefits

The properties of anti-fog polycarbonate sheets are essential for understanding their uses:
 
  • Anti-Fog Performance: Maintains clarity in high-humidity or rapid temperature changes (e.g., refrigeration, greenhouses).
  • Thermoformability:Applicable to various hot forming processes, such as compression molding, vacuum forming, blow molding, hot bending, etc
  • High Impact Resistance: Polycarbonate is 250x stronger than glass, making it shatterproof.
  • UV Resistance: Optional UV-stabilized coatings prevent yellowing and degradation from sunlight.
    • Lightweight: Easier to handle and install compared to glass.
  • Thermal Stability: Retains properties across a wide temperature range (-40°C to 120°C).

Types of Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheets

Anti-fog PC sheets use surface treatments or coatings to modify how water interacts with the material:
 
  • Hydrophilic Coatings:

Mechanism: The coating contains hydrophilic (water-attracting) groups (e.g., hydroxyl or carboxyl groups) that spread condensed water into a thin, transparent film instead of droplets.

Durability: Often achieved via permanent treatments like chemical grafting or co-extrusion during manufacturing.

 

  • Hydrophobic/Nanostructured Surfaces:

Mechanism: Superhydrophobic surfaces (e.g., lotus-leaf-inspired textures) cause water droplets to bead up and roll off. However, this is less common for anti-fog PC, as hydrophilic coatings are more effective for transparency.

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheets Technical Data

Test Item(s) Limit Unit(s) MDL A1
Lead  (Pb) 1000 mg/kg 2 ND
Mercury(Hg) 1000 mg/kg 2 ND
Cadmium(Cd) 100 mg/kg 2 ND
Hexavaent Chromium(Cr(VI) 1000 mg/kg 8 ND
Polybrominated biphenyls(PBB) 1000 mg/kg   ND
Monobrominated biphenyl (MonoBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Dibrominated biphenyl(DiBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tribrominated biphenyl(TriBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tetrabrominated bipheny(TetraBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Pentabrominated biphenyl (PentaBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Hexabrominated biphenyl (HexaBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Heptabrominated biphenyl (HeptaBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Octabrominated biphenyl(OctaBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Nonabrominated biphenyl (NonaBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Decabrominated biphenyl (DecaBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers(PBDE) 1000 mg/kg   ND
Monobrominated diphenyl ether(MonoBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Dibrominated diphenyl ether(DiBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tribrominated diphenyl ether(TriBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tetrabrominated diphenyl ether(TetraBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Pentabrominated diphenyl ether(PentaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Hexabrominated diphenyl ether(HexaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Heptabrominated diphenyl ether(HeptaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Octabrominated diphenyl ether(OctaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheets Specifications

  • Available thickness range: 1mm-25mm for extruded sheets, 30mm to over 100mm for cast sheets
  • Sheet dimensions: 1220x2440mm, 1830x2440mm, 2050x3050mm or customize
  • Weight: Density 1.2kg/sqm, half weight of glass.

Comparison with Other Materials

A detailed comparison helps in choosing the right material:
 
  • Glass: Polycarbonate is stronger, lighter, and more impact-resistant, but more expensive and less scratch-resistant. Glass breaks suddenly, while polycarbonate stretches, reducing shatter risk.
  • Acrylic Sheets: Acrylic has better scratch resistance and clarity but lower impact resistance. Polycarbonate wins in strength and temperature resistance, with acrylic being cheaper but less durable.
  • Other Plastics: PVC or PET lack the same transparency and strength combination, making polycarbonate stand out, as noted in general plastic comparisons.

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheets Applications Across Industries

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process involves extrusion, where polycarbonate resin is melted and forced through a die to form sheets of desired thickness. The sheet is then cooled and cut to size, ensuring uniformity and consistent properties.

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet Maintenance

  • Don't Use Abrasive Cleaners to Protect Anti-fog Coating
Abrasive cleaners with harsh chemicals or rough parts like silica or pumice can badly damage the fragile anti-fog coating on polycarbonate sheets. They may scratch the coating, ruining the sheet's look and anti-fog ability. Once scratched, water droplets won't disperse evenly, causing foggy areas. To ensure the coating's long life and effectiveness, avoid abrasive or heavy-duty cleaning products. Choose products for delicate coatings instead.
 
  • Clean Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheets with Mild Soap and Water
Use a mix of mild (preferably pH-neutral) soap and lukewarm water. Fill a bucket, add a little soap, stir. Dip a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber sponge, squeeze. Wipe the sheet in circles, covering all surfaces. Rinse the cloth/sponge, wipe off soap residue. Dry with a separate dry, lint-free cloth.
 
  • For spray-on coatings, reapply as per manufacturer's advice. 
They keep polycarbonate sheets anti-fog but wear off. Reapply as recommended for continuous protection. The manufacturer will specify reapplication frequency (depending on use intensity, environment, and coating type). Before reapplying, clean and dry the sheet surface. Follow application instructions (shake the can, keep a certain distance, apply evenly). Let the coating dry completely before reuse. This restores anti-fog performance and extends the sheet's lifespan.  
 

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet Environmental Impact

Polycarbonate is recyclable, with some sheets made from recycled materials, supporting sustainability. This was highlighted in environmental discussions from Simply Plastics, emphasizing their eco-friendly potential.

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet Future Trends

Multifunctional integration: Antibacterial and anti-fog properties 
- By incorporating silver nanoparticles or photocatalytic TiO2, the material is endowed with outstanding antibacterial performance, which holds significant application value in medical devices and food packaging. 
- The synergistic effect of UV protection and anti-fog functionality significantly enhances the material's applicability in outdoor scenarios (such as solar panel covers, stadium roofs, etc.). - Combining UV-resistant technology with anti-fog coating processes, a multifunctional integrated design is achieved.

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet Safety Considerations

Handle carefully to avoid scratches, wear protective gear like gloves and eye protection during cutting or drilling. While fire-resistant with a UL94 V-2 rating, follow safety protocols.

Anti-fog Polycarbonate Sheet FAQ

  • 1. How does anti static sheet work?

    A There are three key proterties to achieve anti static effect as below :
    • Conductive Additives: Embedded materials (e.g., carbon) create a conductive network within the PC matrix.

    • Surface Chemistry: Some versions use permanent anti-static agents that migrate to the surface, attracting moisture from the air. This thin layer of moisture allows charges to bleed off slowly and safely.

    • Result: Static charges don't accumulate; they flow across the surface and safely dissipate to ground (often via contact with grounded surfaces or operators).

  • 2. Is Pre-Processing Required for polycarbonate Materials?

    A

    Yes. PC is hygroscopic and must be dried at 120-130°C for 3-4 hours (moisture content <0.02%).

    Our Advantage: Pre-dried customized materials available with guaranteed moisture compliance, reducing your production energy costs.

  • 3. Recommended Processing Methods & Applications

    A

    Compatible with injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and thermoforming. Key applications include:

    • Electronics: Flame-retardant PC smartphone housings (UL94 V-0 certified)

    • Automotive: High-impact PC headlight covers (ISO 9001/IATF 16949 compliant)

    • Optics: Optical-grade PC lenses (>90% light transmission)

      Success Stories: Explore 500+ global client cases in our [Product Gallery].

  • 4. How to Eliminate Silver Streaks/Bubbles?

    A
    • Adopt our Smart Drying System (inline humidity monitoring + auto-alert)

    • Free access to Process Parameter Kits with verified settings:

      • Melt temp: 280-320°C

      • Mold temp: 80-120°C

  • 5. Critical Mold Design Guidelines

    A
    • Runner optimization: Leverage our MoldFlow Simulation Service (30% fewer trial cycles)

    • Venting design: 0.02-0.03mm depth (Free DFM analysis report included)

  • 6. Enhancing Long-Term Product Stability

    A
    • Post-Processing Solutions:

      • Annealing: 110-130°C/1-4hrs (Vacuum annealing equipment optional)

      • Surface coating: Custom AR/Anti-glazing treatments

  • 7. Balancing Sustainability & Cost-Efficiency

    A
    • Recycled PC Solutions: 30% post-industrial regrind blends (GRS-certified)
      Energy-Saving Tech: Low-Temp/High-Pressure Molding Packages (15-20% energy reduction)

  • 8. How to Achieve Enhanced Surface Hardness for polycarbonate Components?

    A

    PC offers excellent toughness but can be surface-hardened for demanding applications. Our advanced solutions include:

    Method 1: Coating Technologies

    • Andisco Hard Coat (AHC):

      • Scratch resistance up to 6H pencil hardness for acrylic and HB for polycarbonate

      • Ideal for touchscreens & automotive interiors

      • Our Service: In-line coating equipment integration support

    • Anti-Reflective (AR) Nano-Coatings:

      • Reduce surface reflectance to <1% while improving hardness

      • Critical for optical lenses & display covers

    Method 2: Chemical Strengthening

    • Solvent-Induced Crystallization:

      • Increases surface hardness by 40% via controlled solvent exposure

      • Maintains 90% light transmission

      • Case Study: Used in aviation window panels (MIL-STD-810G compliant)

    Method 3: Plasma Treatment

    • Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) Deposition:

      • Achieves 15-20 GPa nano-hardness

      • Perfect for medical devices requiring sterilization resistance

  • 9. Can Polycarbonate Be Combined with Metals for Hybrid Hardened Structures?

    A

    Yes. Our Metal-PC Direct Bonding Technology enables:

    • Overmolding:Aluminum/PC composite parts with peel strength >8 MPa

    • Laser Welding:Stainless steel reinforcement for load-bearing joints

    • Benefits

      • 50% weight reduction vs. all-metal parts

      • IP67 sealing without adhesives

  • 10. Enhanced Processing Section

    A

    Advanced Hardening Post-Processing

    • Step 1:Precision Annealing

      • Vacuum-controlled cycles (120°C/2hr) to eliminate internal stress

    • Step 2:Surface Activation

      • Corona/Plasma pretreatment (Dyne level >54)

    • Step 3:Coating Application

      • Custom thickness 5-50μm (Optical/EMI shielding dual-functional options)

    Turnkey Service: From design to hardened components – we manage the entire value chain.

    This comprehensive survey ensures all aspects are covered, providing a complete resource for understanding clear polycarbonate sheets.

  • 11. Can Polycarbonate Be Precision-Machined? Key Considerations

    A

    PC excels in CNC machining for prototyping and low-volume production. Achieve <0.01mm tolerances with our guidelines:

    Tooling Selection

    • Cutting Tools:

      • Carbide end mills with polished flutes (15° helix angle)

      • Diamond-coated drills for hole consistency (Aerospace Standard AS9100 compliant)

    • Geometry:

      • 2-flute for roughing (chip clearance optimization)

      • 4-flute for finishing (Ra <0.8μm achievable)

    Machining Parameters

    Operation Speed (SFM) Feed (mm/tooth) Depth of Cut (mm)
    Milling 300-500 0.05-0.15 ≤2×tool diameter
    Drilling 200-400 0.03-0.08 Peck drilling cycle
    Engraving 600-800 0.01-0.03 0.1-0.3

    Pro Tip: Use compressed air cooling (no lubricants) to prevent stress cracking.

  • 12. Preventing Machining-Induced Defects

    A

    Challenge 1: Edge Chipping

    • Solution:

      • Pre-heat material to 80-90°C (thermal stabilization)

      • Climb milling strategy with ≤5% stepover

    Challenge 2: Surface Melting

    • Solution:

      • High-speed spindle (≥20,000 RPM) + trochoidal tool paths

      • Our Cryo-Machining System: Liquid CO₂ cooling (-78°C)

    Challenge 3: Stress Whitening

    • Post-Process: Flame polishing (propane torch, 3s exposure @400°C)

  • 13. Advanced Hybrid Machining Solutions

    A

    Laser-Assisted CNC

    • Benefits:

      • 60% faster feed rates on >10mm thick PC sheets

      • Burr-free cutting (medical implant grade finish)

    Our Capability: Provide fibre laser integrated machine tool rental service.

    Ultrasonic Vibration Machining

    Ideal for microfluidic channel fabrication:

    • Minimum feature size: 50μm

    • Wall roughness: Ra 0.2μm

    Why Partner With Us for PC Machining?

    • ✅ Digital Twin Service: Upload CAD files for instant machining simulation

    • ✅ Material-Cutting Tool Kits: Pre-tested tool + parameter bundles

    • ✅ Rapid Turnaround: 48-hour machined sample service (5-axis capability)

    What Processing Your Team Supply?

    We are a leading manufacturer specializing in precision processing of engineering plastics.Our services cover:

    • ✅ Custom Sheet Cutting & Fabrication

    • ✅ CNC Machining & Drilling

    • ✅ Thermoforming & Vacuum Forming

    • ✅ Enhancement Surface Coating 

    • ✅ OEM Plastic Parts Production

    We deliver durable, lightweight, and impact-resistant components for industries like automotive, signage, electronics, and construction. Request a quote for tailored plastic solutions!

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Engineered for Your Demond

ANDISCO is a vertically integrated leading manufacturer that offers polycarbonate & acrylic products' end-to-end process service .From material formulation to final assembly, we ensure superior quality, durability, and customization, backed by proprietary technologies and expert collaboration.
As a vertically integrated manufacturer, we control the entire process from proprietary material formulation to finished product assembly, offering tailored, high-performance polycarbonate and acrylic products.

Contact Us

Add: 1st Floor, Workshop 2, No.15, ChunshanRoad, Chunjiang Street,  Xinbei District, Jiangsu Province
Tel: +86-156 51226398/13801503869
Sales Service: andisco001@esdacrylic.com
Technical Support: info@polyteching.com
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