Heating polycarbonate plastic is often done to create bends in the material. After it cools, the material will become what?

When polycarbonate plastic is heated and then bent into a new shape, the cooling process causes the material to undergo a transition in its properties. As it cools, polycarbonate becomes more brittle compared to its original state. This increased brittleness is a result of the thermal changes that the material experiences, making it less able to absorb shock or impact without breaking.

It's important to understand that while heating polycarbonate allows for the creation of bends or shapes that are more aesthetically pleasing or functional, once cooled in that new configuration, the structural integrity of the material may be compromised, leading to a higher likelihood of cracking or failure under stress. This characteristic is crucial to consider when designing with polycarbonate in practical applications, as it directly affects the durability and longevity of the final product.