← Back to Articles

Lexan™ Polycarbonate Cleaning Instructions

When Lexan™ sheet is first installed, the glazing compound and masking paper adhesive can be easily removed by applying naphtha (VM&P) or kerosene with a soft cloth, followed immediately with a thorough soap and water cleaning. DO NOT USE GASOLINE. Adherence to regular and proper cleaning procedures is recommended to preserve appearance.

Preventing Scratches

Wash Lexan™ Sheet with a mild soap or detergent (e.g., Joy** dishwashing liquid) and lukewarm water using a clean sponge or a soft cloth. Rinse well with clean water. Dry thoroughly with a chamois or moist cellulose sponge to prevent water spots. Do not scrub or use brushes on these products: their coating is UV-resistant, not mar-resistant.

Fresh paint splashes, grease, and smeared glazing compounds can be removed easily before drying by rubbing lightly with a grade of VM&P Naphtha or isopropyl. Afterward, a final warm wash should be made, using a mild soap or detergent solution and ending with a thorough rinsing with clean water.

Repairing Hairline Scratches

Scratches and minor abrasions may be minimized using mild automobile polish. Four such products that tend to polish and fill scratches are Johnson Paste Wax, Novus Plastic Polish #1 and #2 (Novus Inc., Minneapolis, MN), Mirror Glaze plastic polish (m.G.M10 – Mirror bright Polish Co., Pasadena, CA), and Plexus* (BTI Chemical, Aguora, CA). It is suggested that a test be made on a sample of Lexan™ sheet with the product selected and that the polish manufacturer's instructions be followed.

Some Important "Don'ts"

  • DO NOT use abrasive or highly alkaline cleaners on Lexan™ sheet products.
  • DO NOT scrape Lexan™ sheet products with squeegees, razor blades, or other sharp instruments.
  • DO NOT use gasoline, benzene, acetone, or carbon tetrachloride on Lexan™ sheet products.
  • DO NOT clean Lexan™ sheet products in direct sunlight or at elevated temperatures.

Compatible Cleaners for Lexan™ Sheet Products

The following cleaning agents are compatible with Lexan™ sheet. The manufacturer's recommendations and instructions should be followed.

  • Joy**
  • Freon T.F.
  • Palmolive liquid***
  • Top Job**
  • VM&P grade Naphtha

New constructions and renovations frequently require that the glazing and surrounding sash and wall finish be cleaned of any excess mortar, paint, sealant, primers, or other construction compounds. Only use recommended cleaners to clean Lexan Sheet. Contact with harsh solvents such as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) or muriatic acid can result in surface degradation and possible crazing of the Lexan™ sheet.

Special Instructions for Lexan™ MR10 Sheet

To avoid damaging this sheet's UV-resistant coating, avoid using abrasive cleaners or cleaning implements. Butyl cellosolve removes paints, mark pen inks, lipstick, etc. Masking tape, adhesive tape, or lint removal tools may also work for lifting off old weathered paints. Using kerosene or VM&P Naphtha is generally effective in removing label stickers. For more stubborn sticker materials, apply light heat from a hair dryer to soften the adhesive and promote removal. DO NOT USE GASOLINE.

* Registered trademark of B.T.I. chemical

** Registered trademark of Proctor and Gamble

*** Registered trademark of Colgate Palmolive

Title: Lexan™ Polycarbonate Cleaning Instructions
Description: Lexan™ cleaning and scratch removal
Published: 3/31/2009
Last Edited: 1/5/2023

436 users found this article useful. Was this article useful to you?

Share

Information disclaimer:

The information contained in this article is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by United States Plastic Corp. and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of materials, time or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this information.