Scratching polycarbonate: A quantitative model

► Quantitative relations between polycarbonate's intrinsic mechanical properties and its sliding frictional properties are established. ► The observed time-dependent friction force can solely be attributed to the polymer's intrinsic deformation response. ► Adhesion only indirectly contributes to the friction force via an increase of the plastic deformation zone. ► Simulations and experiments with a different tip geometry and normal load applied confirm the quantitativeness of our approach.