When specifying products for security applications, there are numerous factors to consider. Material properties are imperative during post-occupancy, but installation and the intended purpose must also be taken into account when specifying products for security purposes.

A new whitepaper has recently been released by security experts Palram, comparing the characteristics of the three most common security screen materials. When specifying glass, acrylic, polycarbonate or a combination of any of the three, not all is as it seems. Referring to something as “bulletproof” is a misnomer, and glass products featuring bullet resistant properties will often be reinforced with either acrylic or polycarbonate for added strength.

'Specifying products for security applications: glass, acrylic or polycarbonate?' examines the composition of laminated glass sheets, and logistical restrictions that prevent it from being the most practical solution.

The paper goes on to examine the benefits of acrylic and particularly polycarbonate, before assessing the performance of the three materials in different scenarios.

The whitepaper is free to download, and comes with additional information on the relevant Australian Standards to take into account when specifying bullet resistant products for security applications, along with additional features to consider.

For more information on the specifics of bullet resistant screens, click here to download 'Specifying products for security applications: glass, acrylic or polycarbonate?'