Polycarbonate (PC)
What is Polycarbonate (PC)?
Polycarbonate (PC) is a thermoplastic polymer made from petroleum through chemical reactions involving bisphenol A (BPA), creating a strong, transparent, shatter-resistant plastic. PC is used or has been used historically for water bottles, food storage containers, baby bottles, drinking glasses, eyeglass lenses, CDs/DVDs, electronic housings, and various consumer products. It is now less common in some product categories, such as baby bottles, due to widespread bans of PC baby bottles and growing concerns about all polycarbonate food contact applications.
For those seeking plastic-free living, avoiding polycarbonate is not entirely problematic, as most use cases for this type of plastic can be avoided with plastic-free alternatives.
Common Uses for Polycarbonate (PC)
Food & Beverage (Declining Use): Water bottles (older reusable), food storage containers, drinking glasses, baby bottles (mostly banned), infant formula containers
Eyewear: Eyeglass lenses, sunglasses, safety glasses, sports goggles
Electronics: CD/DVD discs, computer housings, phone cases, electronic device enclosures
Is Polycarbonate (PC) Safe? Health & Safety Recommendations
Microplastic Concerns: Polycarbonate sheds microplastic particles, though arguably this is secondary to the more immediate concern of BPA leaching. PC bottles and containers release microplastics into liquids and foods, particularly with repeated use, washing, or exposure to heat. Scratched or worn polycarbonate surfaces shed more microplastics.
Chemical Safety: Polycarbonate's primary safety concern is leaching of bisphenol A (BPA), a known endocrine disruptor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polycarbonate (PC)
Is polycarbonate plastic?
Yes, polycarbonate is plastic. It's a petroleum-based synthetic polymer made through chemical reactions involving bisphenol A (BPA).
Does polycarbonate contain BPA?
Yes, polycarbonate is manufactured using BPA (bisphenol A) as a key building block. The BPA monomers link together to form the polycarbonate polymer, but they can break apart and leach into food and beverages, particularly when heated, scratched, or exposed to acidic substances. This BPA leaching is polycarbonate's leading health concern, along with microplastic shedding.
Does polycarbonate shed microplastics?
Yes, polycarbonate sheds microplastic particles, particularly from scratched or worn surfaces.
Is polycarbonate safe for food contact?
No, polycarbonate should be avoided for food and beverage contact due to BPA leaching. Many countries have banned polycarbonate baby bottles specifically because infants are most vulnerable to BPA exposure. Glass, stainless steel, or ceramic are safe alternatives that don't leach hormones disruptors.