SABIC launches new film aimed at shatter-resistant smartphones

SABIC has developed and launched a new polycarbonate film portfolio aimed at strengthening the screens of consumer electronic devices.

The new LEXAN OQ6DA film portfolio is designed to help OEMs address consumers increasing demand for stronger screens that can help to protect the display from scratches and breakage.

The films have been engineered to meet specific scratch resistance and impact performance requirements for consumer electronics making it an suitable for flat touchscreens of smartphones and tablets as well as lenses for portable electronics, overlays and keypads.

“Polycarbonate technology is increasingly being adopted by various industries, especially consumer electronics, where it is replacing glass due to its lightweight and impact resistance,” said Alan Tsai, Director, Technology and Innovation, Displays and Electronics, of SABIC.

“Polycarbonate touchscreens are a cutting-edge technology that is viable and available now for OEMs. They can use these materials today on their mass-market devices to cut weight by up to 50 percent in some cases, add value in the flexibility of design, and help improve shatter-resistance as well.”

New Transparent Option for Touchscreen Designs: Light and Shatter resistant

Compared to glass or glass-based screens available in the market today, SABIC’s says its new LEXAN OQ6DA film materials provide OEMs greater freedom to create lighter and tougher screens. Dual or single side hard-coated products offer 4H pencil hardness, providing resistance to scratching, marring and abrasions. They are said to be “excellent candidates” for die cutting, printing and metallisation. Additionally, SABIC says they provide excellent chemical resistance and more than 90 percent light transmission.

LEXAN OQ6DAW film offers low warpage. For flat lenses and keypads, the portfolio offers dual-coated LEXAN OQ8DA film with abrasion- and chemical- resistance and excellent printability and dual-coated LEXAN OQ6DA film with high pencil hardness and printability.

For ‘A’ covers with or without built-in lens, the portfolio offers LEXAN 6060 film with 3D formability, LEXAN HP92T film with 2.5D formability and high gloss. These products are available globally from SABIC.