Polycarbonate is a distinctive kind of polyester that is heavily utilized as a manufacturing plastic and as a substitute for glass. Generated via a reaction of an aromatic difunctional phenol with the highly toxic gas phosgene or a carbonate, the thermoplastic polymer is clear, lightweight, and unusually strong. Polycarbonate is sold under a variety of trade names, such as Merlon and Lexan, and can be used for a wide variety of applications since the material may be readily extruded, blow-molded, or injection-molded. Some of the products the plastic is commonly found in include safety helmets and gear, shatterproof windows and eyewear lenses, and compact discs.