A 10 mm-thick polycarbonate sheet has been added to the "i-LINE" range of construction materials from Bayer Sheet Europe (Darmstadt / Germany; www.bayersheeteurope.com). "Makrolon multi UV 4-wall sheet" is claimed to have superior heat insulation properties, offering energy-savings when used for roofs, façades, and windows.

According to Günther Winnerl, construction segment manager at Bayer Sheet Europe, the new four-wall sheet has virtually the same weight as previous two-wall sheets of the same thickness, but offers advantages including high insulation with a heat transfer coefficient (Ug) of 2.5 W/m² K and an optimal ratio between Ug factor and sheet thickness, which "significantly increases the sheet´s economic efficiency."

The sheet is claimed to offer improved stability and resistance against physical impact, including hail or snow loads. Its cold bending performance means that it can be used in many different applications, from tunnel shapes or roofs of industrial buildings to large-surface roofing of public or residential buildings. The sheet has fire protection classification B1 (according to DIN 4102) and is available in widths of 1,050, 1,200, 1,250, and 2,100 mm, at lengths of 6,000 and 7,000 mm in clear and white colours and a heat-reducing "IQ-Relax" version.