Lexan is a trade name for a Polycarbonate polymer. The original use was for Bullet proof jet Canopies. The kind that are formed all in one piece. Its also used in Space helmets.
Some call it Plexiglass but it is not. Plexiglass is made of acrylic. This may be where some confusion comes for use in construction. Plexiglass is more tender and tends to fracture more easily.
So if you want to put a window on your coop the best choice is Lexan.
Also for what its worth. Polycarbonate comes in many many many forms From big machinable blocks down to thin film that can be rolled. It has self lubricating properties so using it for a surface to glide another surface over is a common use. I have even used the film as a hinge in low profile applications.
I hope I haven't confused anyone.
quote from:
http://www.coloradoplastics.com/blog-0/bid/42625/Polycarbonate-Lexan-vs-Acrylic-Plexiglas
"Each of the two have benefits and drawbacks. Acrylic (plexiglass) is shinier and polycarb (lexan) is stronger. Acrylic is less expensive but easier to crack. Polycarb is more impact resistant but easier to scratch. They are both stronger and lighter than untempered glass; acrylic is 4x to 8x stronger than glass, while polycarb is about 200x stronger."
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Debra Dixon
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Dixon Design and Development
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