PC/ABS is a blend of polycarbonate and ABS that lands between the two: tougher and more heat resistant than ABS, easier to mold and less notch-sensitive than straight PC. It is a standard choice for device housings, automotive interiors and electrical enclosures.
Typical PC/ABS properties
| Property | Typical value | US units | Test method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 1.10–1.20 g/cm³ | 0.040–0.043 lb/in³ | ASTM D792 / ISO 1183 |
| Tensile strength | 45–60 MPa | 6,500–8,700 psi | ASTM D638 / ISO 527 |
| Flexural modulus | 2.0–2.6 GPa | 290,000–377,000 psi | ASTM D790 / ISO 178 |
| Notched Izod impact | 400–700 J/m | 7.5–13.1 ft·lb/in | ASTM D256 |
| Heat deflection, 1.8 MPa (264 psi) | 85–110°C | 185–230°F | ASTM D648 / ISO 75 |
| Water absorption, 24 h | 0.20–0.30% | ASTM D570 / ISO 62 | |
| Mold shrinkage | 0.5–0.9% | 0.005–0.009 in/in | ASTM D955 / ISO 294-4 |
Typical ranges for standard grades, dry as molded, from published data sheets. Your grade’s own data sheet and the lot COA are what count. Notched Izod uses 3.2 mm (1/8 in) bars.
Processing and drying
| Processing | Typical |
|---|---|
| Melt temperature | 428–610°F / 220–321°C |
| Mold temperature | 120–210°F / 49–99°C |
| Drying | 212–230°F / 100–110°C, 2–4 h; 4–6 h regrind or filled |
| Target moisture | 0.02–0.04% |
| Max barrel residence | 4–6 min |
| General | Typical |
|---|---|
| Clarity | Opaque |
| Chemical resistance | Fair |
Starting points only. See the full processing temperature chart and drying guide for every resin.
What changes these numbers
- Blend ratio. More PC means more heat resistance and impact. More ABS means easier flow and lower cost. The ranges above cover common blends.
- Cold impact. PC/ABS stays tough at low temperatures far better than ABS.
- Flame-retardant grades. Common for electronics. They often run cooler and have lower heat deflection than standard grades.
- Drying targets disagree. Published targets are 0.02% and 0.04%. Aim for 0.02%.
Common PC/ABS grades
- Grades by PC content
- Flame-retardant grades
- Plating grades
- Glass-filled grades
- Low-gloss interior grades
Common questions
What is the heat deflection temperature of PC/ABS?
Typically about 85–110°C (185–230°F) at 1.8 MPa, depending on the PC content.
PC/ABS or polycarbonate?
PC/ABS molds more easily, is less notch-sensitive and often costs less. Straight PC is clear and handles more heat. See PC vs. PC/ABS.
How do you dry PC/ABS?
About 100–110°C (212–230°F) for 2–4 hours, 4–6 hours for regrind or filled grades.
Need PC/ABS, or something close?
A polymer chemist reviews every request, then matches your grade or finds a qualified equivalent and prices it.
What to send for an accurate quote
- The grade name, from any supplier, or a data sheet
- Color (natural, black or a custom match)
- Fill type and percentage, if any
- Melt flow, if you know it
- Quantity for this order and what you use in a year
- Ship-to city and state or province