Polycarbonates - synthesis, properties and environmental impact

Abstract

In this work a synthesis of commercially available polycarbonates as well as selected applications of these unique polymers are discussed. A traditional method of synthesis using phosgene and Bisphenol A, as well as methods based on the transesterification of methyl carbonate and diphenyl carbonate are presented. The advantages and disadvantages of the above procedures are shown. The possibilities of replacing the phosgene technology, used by most polycarbonate manufacturers, with more enVironmentally friendly methods were assessed. In addition, the work includes general characteristics of polycarbonates and their wide application.