Materials (September 01, 2003)

Innovative new aerogels improve plastics performance

Cabot has introduced an innovative class of hydrophobic silica aerogel Nanogel materials, which offer a wide variety of enhancements in processing and end-use performance. The materials are extremely lightweight and provide highly efficient thermal, acoustic and electrical insulation. They can be used for thickening, rheology control and reinforcement.

Nanogel grades are available as optically translucent or opaque and come in a variety of particle sizes and morphologies ranging from 8 micron fine particles to 1 mm beads.

Cabot Canada 519-336-2261

Fire retardant additive developed for wire and cable

Techmer PM has developed a breakthrough flame-retardant additive that provides an optimum balance of fire security, processability and cost. In addition to achieving a minimum LOI (limiting oxygen index) of 31, the new PM-9368E12 modifier provides superior heat stability.

It boosts throughput by offering processing temperatures of up to 530F (276C). Also, the fine size of the flame retardant particles minimizes the effects of the filler on melt flow.

As a bonus, Techmer PM’s flame retardant also imparts good ultra-violet light resistance; normally it will withstand outdoor exposure for up to a year.

Techmer PM 423-457-6700

High heat-resistant, moldable resin

Using a unique polyetherimide technology, GE Plastics has developed Ultem XHT, a high-performance resin that has higher heat resistance capability (by 30 C) yet can still be injection molded on standard equipment.

The material is free of halogen and phosphorous.

“We expect this resin to find a fit in many applications that are today dominated by traditional materials, such as glass, metal and thermoset resins. Ultem XHT resin opens up areas once unimaginable for thermoplastics,” says Tim Rash, general manager, global high performance polymers business.

Key applications include automotive lighting, food catering, flexible printed circuits and electric interconnect devices.

GE Polymerland Canada 888-752-7842