Resins

MODIFY IMPACT AND VISCOSITY WITH FUNCTIONAL POLYOLEFINS

Dow Chemicals’ Polyolefins and Elastomers (PO&E) Business Group has launched AMPLIFY* Functional Polymers, a family of functionalized polyolefin products for specialty applications. They are suitable for applications in compounding, adhesives and tie layers, plus more traditional polyolefin markets such as tubing, molding and films.

Amplify resins are comprised of ethylene ethyl acrylate (EEA) copolymers, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers and maleic anhydride-grafted (MAH) polymers.

For the compounding market, AMPLIFY Functional Polymers cost-effectively meet a wide range of end-use requirements including impact modification, compatibilization and modulus control. They are typically used to modify impact and viscosity characteristics of engineered thermoplastics and polyolefins to meet end-use requirements in appliance and automotive applications, among others. They also impart the flexibility, toughness, and durability required by products ranging from industrial hoses to automotive fascia.

Dow Chemical Co. 800- 441-4369

THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE FOR REINFORCING PU PARTS

The use of natural fibres as a replacement for glass fibre in polyurethane parts is gaining acceptance. Bayer Polymers has responded by offering the Baypreg F polyurethane system, which is a combination of polyurethane chemistry adapted to work best with natural fibres and process technology – NafpurTec – developed by Bayer’s Hennecke machinery unit.

The Baypreg F system uses different combinations of reinforcing mats and honeycomb cores to manufacture interior composite parts for vehicles. One possibility for the mat is a mix of flax and sisal, although hemp is also effective. The resulting parts have good strength and light weight.

Bayer Polymers 800-668-2554

SINGLE-SITE PE IDEAL FOR TOUGH PACKAGING FILMS

The first commercial resins produced by NOVA Chemicals at Joffre, AB, using its Advanced Sclairtech technology are now available. The Surpass resins use proprietary single-site catalysts to deliver a unique combination of properties not found in conventional metallocene resins.

FPs117-C and FPs117-F are designed for film applications requiring superior toughness, such as food packaging, lamination films and sealants. HPs900 adds exceptional clarity while maintaining high puncture resistance and tear strength. FPs317 offers improved strength and clarity versus existing resins for cast film applications, such as stretch film.

On the processing side, Surpass resins are said to give higher outputs, lower extrusion pressure and decreased power consumption.

NOVA Chemicals 888-750-4002

LUBRICATED ALLOYS HAVE BETTER IMPACT PERFORMANCE

LNP is launching new Lubriloy Z and Lubriloy Z ECO FR (flame retardant) internally lubricated alloys based on GE Plastics’ Noryl resin technology. These materials provide good wear performance, low specific gravity, a range of potential use temperatures and improved impact performance over traditional PTFE-lubricated materials. They retain the unique attributes of Noryl resin, and can be formulated to comply with demanding environmental standards. Potential applications exist in information technology, automotive, medical, and water contact markets.

LNP Engineering Plastics 800-532-2567

TPE OFFERS GOOD TENSILE, TEAR PROPERTIES

Through an alliance with DSM, GLS has developed a new thermoplastic vulcanizate, Versalloy 8000. This new line is available in a hardness range from 45 to 70 Shore A. It offers a balance of high performance and processability.

End products made of Versalloy 8000 will have good tear and tensile properties; heat resistance up to 125C; very good oil resistance; and isotropic shrinkage.

GLS Corp. 815-385-8500