ABSTRACT
Polyester carbonates find use in applications that require higher heat distortion temperatures than can be obtained from bisphenol A polycarbonate (BPA-PC). The resins are used in high-end automotive reflectors where the heat buildup in the reflector assembly would cause distortion of the reflector and beam pattern with polycarbonate. Because of the resin's combination of clarity, toughness, heat resistance, and flame retardancy (FR) performance, polyester carbonates and their blends have been used in fire helmets and face shields where, in addition to being able to withstand higher temperatures, the resins also exhibit toughness at both temperature extremes. Polyester carbonate and its blends are also used in medical applications that require steam sterilization.
