Windows
From 3D shapes like curves and wraparounds, to seamless integrations with parts and functions like rear lighting, door latches, D-pillars and sunroofs, SABIC’s LEXAN™ polycarbonate (PC) resins offer exceptional freedom to create differentiated window designs. These tough, impact-resistant, lightweight and crystal-clear materials can replace glass to help the industry achieve multiple objectives.
In addition to enabling new designs, the use of LEXAN PC resin reduces weight vs. glass to help cut CO2 emissions and fuel consumption in ICE vehicles. In electric vehicles, LEXAN resin’s lower thermal conductivity vs. glass offers the potential to reduce the size and weight of HVAC components to help extend range. Additionally, to further increase sustainability, windows can be made using certified circular and certified renewable LEXAN resin grades.
High-speed injection-compression molding or 2-shot injection molding with CYCOLOY™ PC/ABS resin enable part consolidation and deliver processing advantages over glass to boost productivity and drive down costs.
From a performance standpoint, LEXAN resins can be enhanced and protected with UV- and abrasion-resistant coatings. Because LEXAN PC grades are virtually unbreakable, they can even increase vehicle security and help to deter break-ins.
SABIC supports automotive customers with a broad portfolio; expertise in coatings, including plasma formulations; experience in large-part injection-compression molding; and a long history of innovations in automotive glazing.
Featured Product Brands
PC resins offering high transparency and brilliant gloss, high flow and excellent weathering for coated applications. |
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PC/ABS blends with attractive aesthetics that facilitate 2-shot injection molding with LEXAN PC resin and support bonding and gluing. |
Ask us about automotive window solutions.
Rear and front quarter windows
Creating new rear quarter window (RQW) and front quarter window (FQR) designs with LEXAN™ PC resin can help OEMs differentiate vehicle styling, streamline design complexity and improve aerodynamics while meeting cost targets. Design concepts for RQRs and FQRs that are feasible with PC – and difficult or impossible with glass – range from integrations with lighting, D-pillars and sunroofs to dramatic, curved forms. Additional benefits include lower weight, improved passenger comfort thanks to better thermal insulation, and easier manufacturing.
Featured Product Grades
Window quality PC resin; medium viscosity (MVR of 12); UV and heat stabilized; injection molding grade; AMECA listing; excellent impact performance. |
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PC/ABS blend; high heat and modulus; low CTE; good aesthetics. |
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PC/ABS blend; low CTE, suitable for 2-shot applications with LEXAN™ PC resin; high heat and modulus; good aesthetics. |
Panoramic roofs / sunroofs
Large roof components using traditional glass present challenges: heavy weight affects center of gravity and handling; breakage potential can reduce occupant safety; and design limitations can restrict the use of curved shapes and part integration. Replacing glass with LEXAN™ resin can cut weight significantly (30%-50%), expand design options to include 3D shapes and part integrations, and enhance protection and comfort thanks to superior impact performance and thermal insulation.
Featured Product Grades
Window quality PC resin; medium viscosity (MVR of 12); UV and heat stabilized; injection molding grade; AMECA listing; excellent impact performance. |