PLASTICS

WACKER at K 2013: To Present New Coolant-resistant LSR ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60 for Automotive Seals

2013-07-16T11:15:00.001-07:00

MUNICH -- WACKER, the Munich-based chemicals group, will showcase a coolant-resistant liquid silicone rubber for the automotive industry at K 2013, the 19th International Trade Fair for Plastics and Rubber. In its cured state, ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60 ensures excellent sealing properties, since it retains a low compression set, even under long-term load in direct contact with coolants. This makes the novel silicone a suitable choice in the manufacture of molded seals for engine cooling circuits. ELASTOPLAST LR 3022/60 is designed for injection molding. K 2013 will take place in Düsseldorf, Germany, from October 16 to 23, 2013.

WACKER, the Munich-based chemicals group, is presenting ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60 at K 2013. Coolant- and heat-resistant, the new liquid silicone rubber is especially suitable for producing seals for installation in engine cooling systems.

Standard silicone elastomers are not really suitable as sealants in the hot areas of engine cooling circuits. As soon as such standard elastomers come into contact with a coolant of over 100 degrees Celsius in temperature — usually a water/glycol mixture — some of their key properties for leak-tightness, such as elasticity and high resilience, deteriorate.

At K 2013, WACKER will, for the first time, present a silicone rubber for making seals fully suited for cooling systems. The platinum-cured liquid silicone rubber, ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60, features very low compression set. The silicone rubber's lasting resilience ensures consistently high leak-tightness in the seal groove. Measurements show that the compression set of ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60's is no greater than 50 percent even after a thousand hours in a coolant at a temperature of 125 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the overall property profile of cured ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60 rubber remains virtually unchanged under long-term load. As a result, molded parts made of the new silicone grade can be used as seals even when they are directly exposed to hot coolants.

In addition, the silicone rubber exhibits very good low-temperature flexibility down to −45 degrees Celsius. With this combination of temperature and coolant resistance, ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60 offers an alternative to organic elastomers.

The novel silicone is designed for use in cars, in particular. Its strengths excel wherever it regularly comes into contact with hot coolant for a prolonged period of time. Possible applications include seals and other molded silicone parts, both for the cooling circuit and the radiator itself. As a liquid silicone rubber, ELASTOSIL® LR 3022/60 can be injection molded with ease. This also makes cost-effective mass production of molded parts possible.

Visit WACKER at K 2013 in Hall 6, Booth A10.

About WACKER

WACKER is a globally-active chemical company with some 16,300 employees and annual sales of around €4.63 billion (2012). WACKER has a global network of 24 production sites, 22 technical competence centers and 53 sales offices.

WACKER Silicones

Silicone fluids, emulsions, rubber and resins; silanes; pyrogenic silicas; thermoplastic silicone elastomers

WACKER Polymers

Polyvinyl acetates and vinyl acetate copolymers in the form of dispersible polymer powders, dispersions, solid resins and solutions used as binders for construction chemicals, paints and coatings, adhesives, plasters, textiles and nonwovens, as well as for polymeric materials based on renewable resources.

WACKER Biosolutions

Biotech products such as cyclodextrins, cysteine and biologics, as well as fine chemicals and PVAc solid resins.

WACKER Polysilicon

Polysilicon for the semiconductor and photovoltaic industries.

Dow Corning Offers Engineered Elastomers Enabling OEMs & Tier Suppliers to Meet Auto Needs

2013-02-18T11:45:00.002-08:00

MIDLAND, Michigan, USA -- Dow Corning Corporation, one of the global leaders in silicone and silicon-based technology and innovation, stresses the importance of collaboration with vehicle OEMs and tier suppliers to find cost-effective solutions for system-design challenges. Teamwork and close working relationships can help develop new technology quicker, taking full advantage of the company's specialty materials, problem-solving expertise and global technical support.

"Dow Corning has provided innovation support for a wide range of automotive needs over the years, yet the pace of change and demand for better, lower-cost, high-performing materials now require coordinated efforts at all levels of the value chain," said Marjorie Dwane, Dow Corning Automotive, Aviation and Aerospace Global Market Manager. "Our experience, ingenuity and design collaboration can help vehicle OEMs and tier suppliers meet their most pressing needs for sustainable innovation, enhanced reliability and cost in use."

According to Dwane, Dow Corning has helped the industry make many key advances in meeting its vehicle-system performance needs. Molykote®brand Smart Lubrication™ solutions enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions, provide brake friction control, reduce noise and vibration, and help extend component service life. Silastic®brand and Dow Corning® brand engineered elastomers provide effective solutions for inflatable-restraint systems, fluid and air delivery, engine sealing and gasketing, electrical protection, and vibration control. Dow Corning® brand performance adhesives and sealants offer proven, high-strength bonding and sealing solutions for lighting-system manufacturing and interior-component assembly.

These Dow Corning technologies are supported by the company's structure and culture of problem-solving innovation, which is focused on meeting automotive requirements for safety, reliability, comfort, fuel efficiency and sustainability. Existing technologies are applied to deliver results — effective solutions with known costs and reduced risks — to meet today's needs. Advanced technologies — forged in collaboration with current and prospective customers — are being developed to meet tomorrow's challenges.

Many of the newer technologies, according to Dwane, are built around sustainable innovation and can contribute to design lightweighting for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. These include piston coatings for gas and diesel engines to reduce frictional losses; green tire development for less road noise and rolling resistance; advanced silicone and fluorosilicone elastomers for turbocharger hoses and diesel particulate emissions control; bright white LED lighting; thermal interface materials for batteries used on electric and hybrid vehicles; silicone-based engine and transmission oil additives; eco-friendly thermoplastic composites; and ultrapure silicon carbide for next-generation, energy-conserving electronics.

"Always cost-conscious, highly regulated and benchmarking ever-higher levels of content and performance, today's automotive industry provides many challenges that Dow Corning can help meet with our specialty materials, expertise and support," Dwane said. "Collaboration — robust teamwork turning ideas into innovations — will be an essential business dynamic going forward."

Dow Corning, XIAMETER, Molykote and Silastic are registered trademarks of Dow Corning Corporation.
Smart Lubrication and We help you invent the future are trademarks of Dow Corning Corporation.

About Dow Corning

Dow Corning provides performance-enhancing solutions to serve the diverse needs of more than 25,000 customers worldwide. One of the global leaders in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, Dow Corning offers more than 7,000 products and services through the Dow Corning® and XIAMETER® brands. Dow Corning is equally owned by The Dow Chemical Company and Corning, Incorporated. More than half of Dow Corning's annual sales are outside the United States.

Molykote® brand Smart Lubrication™ from Dow Corning

For more than 60 years, customers around the world have trusted the Molykote® brand for performance and expertise to solve or prevent virtually any lubrication problem and to save energy through Smart Lubrication™. Molykote solutions are available through a global network of more than 3,000 channel partners.

Renault Selects SABIC's PA-PPE Blend PIR NORYL GTX™ Resin for Fenders of Electric Vehicles

2013-02-18T11:44:00.004-08:00

BERGEN OP ZOOM, The Netherlands -- Marking a new milestone in its distinguished 25-year relationship developing thermoplastic fenders with Renault S.A., SABIC's Innovative Plastics business recently announced that the French automaker has successfully adopted a new post-industrial recycled (PIR) grade of NORYL GTX™ resin as part of its ongoing drive to comply with the European Union's end-of-life vehicle (ELV) requirements. The OEM adopted the new SABIC material for the fenders of its 2013 Clio IV and will expand the resin's use to the upcoming ZOE electric vehicle. The PIR grade meets quality and performance standards and further enhances the sustainability benefits of NORYL GTX resin for automotive fenders, which include a weight reduction and up to 47 percent lower greenhouse gas emissions over the lifecycle of the fender compared to steel. Renault's success with this new PIR NORYL GTX resin grade demonstrates SABIC's ongoing commitment to improve its materials technologies to advance customers' environmental goals and respond to changing regulations.

Renault started its ICARRE 95 project in 2010 to review technical solutions to meet the requirements in Directive 2000/53/EC on the elimination of end-of-life vehicles. ICARRE, which stands for Innovative CAR Recycling +95%, is targeting a 95 percent recovery rate for ELV materials. Use of the PIR NORYL GTX grade is an important step to help Renault advance toward this target.

"Renault's vision and innovation have played a leading role in the mainstream adoption of plastic fenders to achieve key automotive industry goals of enhanced sustainability and design freedom," said Leon Jacobs, Automotive leader, Europe, Innovative Plastics. "The company's use of

NORYL GTX resin over 25 years has conclusively demonstrated that lightweight thermoplastic body panels made from the product are a viable, proven, production-capable solution. Now, with next-generation SABIC materials that use recycled body panels, Renault can continue to raise the bar in automotive innovation."

To support Renault in the development of the new PIR fenders, SABIC provided a wide range of technical services, including defining and validating the molding conditions, using predictive tools to optimize the fender design and processes, testing application requirements such as impact and dimensional stability, and supporting production processes including online painting and assembly.

Proud Heritage, Promising Future of Advancements in Plastic Fenders

Renault has designed more vehicles with fenders molded from NORYL GTX resin than any other automaker. Models include the Twingo, Clio, Kangoo, Scenic, Megane, Laguna, Espace, Wind and Modus. The automaker began development of plastic fenders in 1985 and launched its first in 1989 on the Clio 16S.

Building on its recent success with PIR material, Renault is collaborating with SABIC to develop a closed loop system in which the OEM will harvest the thermoplastic material of fenders from end-of-life vehicles for the production of fenders for new cars. The aim is for Renault to use a post-consumer recycled grade of NORYL GTX resin, a material already in the validation stage, for select vehicles.

About SABIC

SABIC recorded a net profit of SR 29.24 billion (US$ 7.80 billion) in 2011. Sales revenues for 2011 totaled SR 189.90 billion (US$ 50.64 billion). Total assets stood at SR 332.78 billion (US$ 88.74 billion) at the end of 2011.

SABIC's businesses are grouped into Chemicals, Polymers, Performance Chemicals, Fertilizers, Metals and Innovative Plastics. SABIC has significant research resources with 16 dedicated Technology & Innovation facilities in Saudi Arabia, the USA, the Netherlands, Spain, Japan, India and South Korea. The company operates in more than 40 countries across the world with around 40,000 employees worldwide.

SABIC manufactures on a global scale in Saudi Arabia, the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific.

Headquartered in Riyadh, SABIC was founded in 1976 when the Saudi Arabian Government decided to use the hydrocarbon gases associated with its oil production as the principal feedstock for production of chemicals, polymers and fertilizers. The Saudi Arabian Government owns 70 percent of SABIC shares with the remaining 30 percent held by private investors in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

About SABIC's Innovative Plastics

SABIC's Innovative Plastics business is a leading, global supplier of engineering thermoplastics with an 80-year history of breakthrough solutions that solve its customers' most pressing challenges. Today, Innovative Plastics is a multi-billion-dollar company with operations in more than 35 countries and approximately 9,000 employees worldwide. The company continues to lead the plastics industry with customer collaboration and continued investments in new polymer technologies, global application development, process technologies, and environmentally responsible solutions that serve diverse markets such as automotive, electronics, building & construction, transportation, and healthcare. The company's extensive product portfolio includes thermoplastic resins, coatings, specialty compounds, film, and sheet. Innovative Plastics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).

Lab Plastic Components Manufacturer Bioplast Manufacturing Earns ISO 9001:2008 Certification

2013-02-18T11:43:00.003-08:00

Hamilton, NJ. -- Bioplast Manufacturing, LLC, a manufacturer of plastic components such as laboratory plastic centrifuge vials, and liquid handling pipette tips used primarily for the medical research, clinical diagnostic and biotech environments, recently announced that it has become ISO 9001:2008 certified.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is the world's largest developer and publisher of International Standards. ISO 9001:2008 is recognized and respected by organizations worldwide as a Quality Management Standard. This certification is an important benchmark in Bioplast Manufacturing's continuing commitment to superior manufacturing products under the highest quality standards for their clients. The policies and procedures put in place also confirm Bioplast's compliance and commitment to achieving, and surpassing, industry-respected practices.

To become ISO 9001:2008 certified, Bioplast underwent a 16-month evaluation process that included the development of a formal quality management system (QMS), management systems review, employee training, process documentation, establishment of process metrics and several pre-audit assessments to ensure an optimum QMS with accompanying procedures and controls. The process began with a two-day pre-assessment audit and culminated with a two-day formal assessment audit by the BSI Group. The BSI Group, an accredited registrar that performs assessments of management systems against the requirements of national and international standards for quality and customer satisfaction, has a corporate headquarters based in the United Kingdom. The BSI Group maintains 58 international offices serving over 65,000 clients in 150 countries. Bioplast's Quality Management System- ISO 9001:2008 Certification No. FM 589876 is ANAB, BSI and IAF accredited.

Brian Conway, Bioplast's Managing Director, stated: "We are extremely proud to obtain our ISO 9001:2008 certification. It's a wonderful achievement, but more importantly, what Bioplast gained in the ISO process is a level of excellence upon which our customers can depend. Throughout this process, Bioplast was able to focus and improve all of its organizational processes. Our commitment to quality and continual improvement of our QMS is reflected in Bioplast obtaining this ISO 9001:2008 certification."

About Bioplast Manufacturing

Bioplast Manufacturing is a member of the Genesis Biotechnology Group located in Hamilton, New Jersey in "Einstein's Alley", the research and technology corridor of New Jersey. Bioplast is in close proximity to major metropolitan centers in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Volkswagen Utilizes BASF's Ultrasim® in the All-plastic Front End Carrier of its Latest Golf 7

2013-02-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

The front end carrier in the new Golf 7 is completely made from plastic. This makes the part that owes its shape to elaborate calculations and simulations one of the world's first front end carriers without metal reinforcement. Replacing the previous polypropylene hybrid part with an all-plastic part required use of not only Ultramid® B3WG8, a highly reinforced polyamide during development, but particularly Ultrasim®, the simulation tool from BASF. The sheet steel parts that had been attached previously are now eliminated. This reduces the weight of the front end module significantly compared to that of the predecessor model, saving assembly time and thus costs. Volkswagen produces the part in-house.

Intelligent design with Ultrasim

In addition to limited space for installation, the requirements to the all-plastic part include a variety of very challenging load cases: among them, static and dynamic hood latch failure, where incorrect opening and closing of the engine's hood is simulated and tested under the harshest conditions. At the same time, the stiffness and vibration behavior of the system comprising front end and radiator was optimized on the basis of CAE analyses and validated in an actual vibration test.

Crash sensor: correctly predicted

Special attention was devoted to the crash sensors attached to the front end. They ensure deployment of the airbag at the right moment in the event of a head-on collision. For this, the plastic part must exhibit a certain dynamic stiffness at a defined location and satisfy the automaker's crash acceleration requirements. In a real-world test, the vibration response of the part corresponded exactly to what was designed and predicted by Ultrasim: The Ultramid front end carrier transmits the collision signal correctly.

Precision with Ultramid plastic and the Ultrasim CAE tool

The primary load cases provide the basis for a front end design; from these, an optimized topology can be derived. This topology gives the designer valuable information regarding the final shape of the part. Thanks to the highly accurate predictions of Ultrasim, only slight modifications were needed in moving from the prototype of the front end carrier to its serial production. This demonstrates the kind of challenging applications that can be addressed by combining a suitable material with the correct prediction and calculation tools.

Furthermore, Ultrasim, together with its special failure models, can be integrated seamlessly into the calculation environment for the automaker's entire vehicle. This requires, however, that very specific, e.g. crash-relevant material data for the plastic, be available which describe exactly the effect of temperature, moisture and rate of load application. A simulation is thus preceded by acquisition of extensive material data from experiments conducted with the aid of complex testing and measuring instruments. The simulation tool is then able to predict failure behavior, strain rate dependence, and even tension-compression asymmetry as a function of fiber orientation.

About BASF

BASF is amongst the world's leading chemical companies. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection products to oil and gas. It combines economic success, social responsibility and environmental protection. Through science and innovation it enables its customers in almost all industries to meet the current and future needs of society. Its products and system solutions contribute to conserving resources, ensuring healthy food and nutrition and helping to improve the quality of life. It has summed up this contribution in our corporate purpose: It creates chemistry for a sustainable future. BASF posted sales of about €73.5 billion in 2011 and had more than 111,000 employees as of the end of the year. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN).

Global TPE Mkt's Revenues Rising at CAGR of 6.4% from 2012 to 2018: Transparency Market Research

2013-02-18T11:41:00.002-08:00

According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research " Thermoplastic Elastomers (SBCs, TPOs, TPUs, TPVs & COPEs) Market — Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth and Forecast 2012 - 2018 ," the global thermoplastic elastomers demand was 3,480.4 kilo tons in 2011 and is expected to reach 4,879.7 kilo tons by 2018, growing at a CAGR of 5.0% from 2012 to 2018. In terms of revenues, the market was valued at USD 9.9 billion in 2011 and is expected to reach USD 15.3 billion by 2018, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2012 to 2018.

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) market is primarily driven by the growing demand for light weight and high performance materials from the automobile industry across the world. Shift towards replacing PVC with thermoplastic elastomers from major end use industries is also expected to drive TPE demand over the next five years. However, the volatile nature of raw material prices and the regulatory issues due to growing environmental concerns are expected to hinder the market growth.

Styrenic block copolymers (SBCs) made up the largest segment of TPE products, accounting for close to 48% of total TPEs consumed in 2011. SBCs are mostly used for paving, roofing and in the footwear industry for high quality shoes. However, SBC demand is expected to remain stagnant over the next five years, as the market nears maturity. Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) is expected to be the fastest growing TPE product with an estimated CAGR of 6.6% from 2012 to 2018.

Asia Pacific has emerged as the leading consumer of thermoplastic elastomers and accounted for over 40% of the global demand in 2011. TPE consumption in the region is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2012 to 2018. The growth of automotive industries mainly in China and India is propelling the growth of TPEs market in the region. In terms of consumption, Europe is the third largest market; however demand in the region is expected to remain stagnant owing to economic issues and general slowdown in key application industries such as automotive and construction.

Key participants in the TPE industry include Sinopec, Bayer, BASF, Kraton, Huntsman Corporation, Dow Chemical Company, LCY Chemical, Dynasol, Nippon, Yantai Wanhua, TSRC, LG Chemicals, Dushanzi and so on. This study provides a detailed competitive landscape with company share analysis and detailed profiles of the companies mentioned above.

The report analyzes the global demand for thermoplastic elastomers in terms of both volumes (kilo tons) and revenues (USD million) from 2010 to 2018. The demand for each product type (SBCs, TPOs, TPUs, TPVs, COPEs & other) of TPEs is analyzed on the basis of their application and geographies from 2010 to 2018. The report segments the global thermoplastic elastomers market as:

Thermoplastic Elastomers Market, by Product Type:

- Styrenic Block Copolymers (SBCs)
- Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPOs)
- Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPUs)
- Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPVs)
- Copolyester Elastomers (COPEs)
- Other Thermoplastic Elastomers (including Thermoplastic Polayamide)

The report segments each of the above mentioned type of thermoplastic elastomer on the basis of application and geography as:

Styrenic Block Copolymers (SBCs) Market, by Product Type:

Styrene Butadiene Styrene

Styrene Isoprene Styrene

Hydrogenated SBCs (including SEBS, SEPS, SEEPS)

Styrenic Block Copolymers (SBCs) Market, by Application:

Paving and Roofing

Footwear

Advanced Materials (compounding, personal care & polymer systems)

Adhesives, Sealants and Coatings

Other

Styrenic Block Copolymers (SBCs) Market, by Geography:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Rest of the World (RoW)

Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPOs) Market, by Application:

Automotive

Other (including medical, construction, packaging etc.)

Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPOs) Market, by Geography:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Rest of the World (RoW)

Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPUs) Market, by Application:

Automotive

Construction

Electronics & Appliances

Hose & Tubing

Footwear

Wire & Cable

Others (industrial insulation, CASE etc.)

Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPUs) Market, by Geography:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Rest of the World (RoW)

Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPVs) Market, by Application:

Automotive

Fluid Handling

Consumer Goods

Medical

Other (including construction, appliances, tools)

Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPVs) Market, by Geography:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Rest of the World (RoW)

Copolyester Elastomers (COPEs) Market, by Application:

Automotive

Electrical & Electronics

Industrial

Medical

Other (including construction & personal care)

Copolyester Elastomers (COPEs) Market, by Geography:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Rest of the World (RoW)

About Transparency Market Research

Transparency Market Research is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Its exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. It is privileged with highly experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information.

Transparency Market Research data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

FRP Demand Boosted by Auto Sector; to Cross 1 Bn Pounds by 2018 in India, Predicts Composite Insights

2013-02-18T11:40:00.000-08:00

In 2012, the demand for raw materials used in the fabrication of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) products in India has declined dramatically followed by significant decrease in production in prominent segments such as construction, pipe and wind energy. Demand for reinforced thermoset plastics fell by double digits; however, reinforced thermoplastic plastics were able to post a slow growth in 2012.

Indian Reinforced Plastic Demand (mil lbs) by Market Segment in 2012

Indian reinforced plastic industry, after an extremely challenging 2012, forecast to rebound in several segments in 2013. The demand for reinforced plastic materials (fibers, resins, etc.) in India is forecast to cross 1 billion pounds by 2018. Reinforced thermoplastics are forecast to experience faster growth than reinforced thermosets through 2018. Reinforced thermoplastic gains will be aided by the resins' greater design capabilities and easier processing.

The transportation segment is expect to remain the leading reinforced plastic market through 2018, with demand rising double digits per year. Advances will be boosted by increasing motor vehicle production and growth in the average weight of reinforced plastic material per vehicle.

Through 2018, glass fibers will remain the dominant reinforcement material; however, carbon fiber expected to experience the fastest gains of all reinforcements (albeit from a low base) as prices fall and processing techniques improve.

This innovative research report highlights the opportunities for reinforced plastic materials in India; provides current and future demand for various materials. Over 18 pages long, the report provides all the market intelligence required to gain competitive advantage in Indian Reinforced Plastics Market.

Key Features of the report are:

Indian Reinforced Plastics Market: Industry overview, structure, and leaders
Market Analysis: Indian Reinforced Plastics Market by market segment, reinforcements, resin groups
Trend & Forecast: Past and Future demand for Indian Reinforced Plastic materials

About Composite Insights

Composite Insights is a full service Custom and Syndicated Research firm focused on a variety of industry vertical, empowered with strong knowledge and experience of end to end market research process in global markets. It is a modern market research company where information holds the key. It continuously strives to ensure its clients lead the market trend rather than follow the same. Composite Insights creates research hub for companies ranging from emerging companies to Fortune 500 through custom and syndicated research services.

PVC Industry's Recycling Scheme Recovinyl Recycles 1 Mn PVC-U Post-consumer Windows/yr in UK

2013-02-18T11:32:00.001-08:00

More than one million PVC-U post-consumer window frames are being recycled in the UK every year through Recovinyl, the PVC industry's recycling scheme.

Latest audited figures show that end-of-life windows and profiles comprised 25,480 tons (52%) of the total 48,544 tons of waste PVC recycled in 2011. Other materials collected and recycled through the Recovinyl program included pipes and fittings, cables, flexible PVC and rigid PVCfilms. New verified data for 2012 is expected in April.

Recovinyl estimates that this windows and profiles fraction, which doesn't include doors, would equate to roughly 1.25 million frames or enough replacement windows for around 122,000 houses and flats — almost as many as the 137,000 new dwellings built in the UK throughout 2011.

PVC Recycling, Old PVC Frames

The assumption is based on the weight of an average PVC-U window frame and taking out 5,000 of the 25,480 tons that would include other waste PVC building products from refurbishments, such as roofline, cladding, window boards and ducting.

"These figures are an impressive achievement and clearly demonstrate the sustainability credentials of PVC as a building material that can be easily recycled and re-used, as well as the on-going industry commitment to more sustainable practices," commented Jane Gardner, of Axion Consulting, Recovinyl's UK agents.

"Thanks to the real efforts being made to collect these waste frames and the infrastructure now in place to recycle them, waste PVC-U can be diverted from landfill and successfully turned back into useful new products," continued Jane.

Jason Leadbitter, Chairman of the VinylPlus Controlled Loop Committee, said: "Importantly we are not claiming that all of the one million window frames are being manufactured into new window frames, but we are claiming that more than one million window frames are being recycled into second life products for long-term use in the construction industry, including new windows."

Godfrey Arnold, of PVC market research company D & G Consulting, acknowledged the figure as a 'conservative estimate', adding: "Nonetheless, these statistics present a very positive picture of the PVC industry's recycling success. Given the growing demand for recycled content in new PVC products, we can only expect these volumes to rise in the future."

Increasing use of recycled PVC-U content in a variety of new building products, from cladding and roofline products to reinforcement for PVC-U windows, and the growth of new end markets has contributed to Recovinyl's continued success since the scheme's 2005 launch in the UK.

"This recycling record adds considerable strength to the role of PVC windows in sustainable construction," commented Philip Law, Public and Industrial Affairs Director of the British Plastics Federation. "The numbers are truly outstanding considering the long-life of PVC windows, the rate at which they enter the waste stream and the flat market conditions in the construction sector."

Jane added: "Recovinyl remains at the heart of the PVC industry's drive for greater sustainability and to encourage more companies to recycle, rather than landfill, their PVC-U waste with associated economic and environmental benefits."

As the PVC industry's recycling scheme, Recovinyl is also an initiative of VinylPlus, the ten-year Voluntary Commitment of the European PVC industry, which is tackling the sustainability challenges for PVC and delivery of fresh recycling targets to 2020. These targets include 800,000 tons to be re-used in all European countries by 2020 — with 700,000 tons mechanically recycled and the rest using new technologies for more difficult-to-recycle or contaminated PVC.

About Axion Consulting

Axion Consulting is part of the Axion Group that develops and optimizes processing and collection methods to recover value from waste resources for a wide range of clients within the recycling and process industries.

Instron at JEC EU: To Display Testing Systems for Composite Materials & Fiber Composite Parts

2013-02-18T11:31:00.000-08:00

HIGH WYCOMBE, UK -- At JEC Europe from 12 to 14 March 2013 in Paris, Instron will be showcasing at its booth C55 advanced testing systems and components for determining the mechanical properties of composite materials and fiber composite parts. Providing high precision, measuring accuracy, and repeatability of test procedures, the systems are ideally suited to the challenges presented by these materials, with their unique strength to weight ratio, low strain at failure, high stiffness, and pronounced fiber directionality. Thanks to their versatile capabilities combined with their insensitivity to contaminations resulting from debris projected during specimen failure, these systems provide highly reliable data from tensile, compression, shear, fatigue and impact tests.

Instron's precision manual wedge grips for measurements

As an example of its wide portfolio of testing systems for the composites industry, Instron is presenting at this year's JEC Europe a Model 5980 floor-standing universal test system specially equipped for performing measurements on composites. With nominal load capacities up to 600 kN and a sturdy, high-stiffness frame, these systems are an excellent choice for testing carbon or glass fiber reinforced plastic materials and aeronautical or automotive structures. They can be combined with Instron's newly developed manual wedge grips, providing repeatable, high precision, reliable alignment of specimens in accordance with the stringent requirements of NADCAP guidelines AC7101 and AC7122-1. In addition to these new grips, visitors to the show will be able to see Instron's new AutoX750 Automatic Contacting Extensometer, which is accurately aligned and attached to the specimen without operator intervention and with minimum force, and therefore contributes towards faster, more reliable and more accurate routine testing procedures. At JEC 2013 Instron will also be presenting its NADCAP Compliance Services, aimed at assisting customers with the optimization of their testing systems and processes.

For dynamic and fatigue testing of composites, Instron will be exhibiting an ElectroPuls® E10000 testing system with a nominal force capacity up to 卤10 kN, designed both for static testing at low speeds and high-frequency dynamic testing at several hundred Hertz. With its patented, oil-free linear motor technology the system specifically supports clean working conditions. The range of exhibits is rounded off with a 9300 series Instron® CEAST drop tower equipped with a special fixture for performing compression-after-impact tests (CAI).

Beyond this, on Thursday, March 14th, at 11.00am, Instron will give a talk on "Mechanical Testing of Composites" as part of the accompanying Technical Sales Presentations Program (Stand X18).

About Instron

Instron is one of the globally leading manufacturers of test equipment for the material and structural testing markets. A global company providing single-source convenience, Instron manufactures and services products used to test the mechanical properties and performance of various materials, components and structures in a wide array of environments. Instron systems evaluate materials ranging from the most fragile filament to advanced high-strength alloys. With the combined experience of CEAST in designing plastic testing systems, Instron enhances materials testing offerings, providing customers with comprehensive solutions for all their research, quality and service-life testing requirements. Additionally, Instron offers a broad range of service capabilities, including assistance with laboratory management, calibration expertise and customer training.

Instron is part of the Test and Measurement division of the US based Illinois Tool Works (ITW) group of companies with more than 850 distributed business units in 52 countries worldwide and a staff of approx. 60,000.

Global Bioplastics Mkt Likely to Reach USD 7.7 Bn by 2016 at CAGR of 24.3%: ResearchAndMarkets

2013-02-18T11:29:00.000-08:00

Global Bioplastics market is expected to reach US$7.7 billion by 2016 at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 24.3%, globally. Region-wise analysis shows that Asia-Pacific is forecasted to record the highest growth rate of 25.7% during the analysis period 2011-2016. The Americas follows Asia-Pacific with a CAGR of 25.2%. Europe forecasts to drive with a growth rate of 23.5%. Volume based studies reveal that Europe is expected to overcome Asia-Pacific region in terms of the growth rate. Poly esters and Poly olefins are expected to drive the growth. Among the end-users, electronic and electrical industries are expected to have a better support over packaging industry.

The 'Bioplastics — A Global Market Watch, 2011 - 2016' reviews the latest trends in plastics industry with a perceptive to identify the near-future growth prospects. The plastics industry is a fragmented market with multiple market participants, opens up numerous investment opportunities. The major investment focus is packaging business. An in-depth analysis across the geographic regions provides strategic business intelligence for the industry investments. The study offers profitable investment strategies for R&D organizations, plastic manufacturing units, distributors, Contract Research Organizations (CROs) and many more in preferred locations.

The report primarily focuses on:
Latest Market Trends
- Region-wise Demand Factor
- Key Growth Areas
- Market Sizes
- Key Competitors Edge
- Investment Strategies

Estimates are based on online surveys using customized questionnaires by our research team. Besides information from government databases, company websites, press releases and published research reports are also used for estimates. Estimates have incorporated recessionary impact on the industry. The analysis is based on desk research and interviews with industry researchers and law/ethics specialists, as well as on data collected through the survey, and discussions with experts.

The report delivers a microscopic view of regional market volume and values.

The major bioplastics — product and end-users discussed in the report are:
BIOPLASTICS — Value & Volume

By Product

Poly Saccharides

Starch
Cellulose

Poly Esters

PLA
PHA
Other (PTT, PBT, PBS, PBSL etc.)

Poly Olefins (Poly Ethylene)
Other

Poly Vinyls (Poly Vinyl Chloride)
Biobased Monomers (Bio-Based Epichlorohydrin)

By End-User

Packaging
Agriculture & Horticulture
Disposable Service Ware
Fibers
Electrical & Electronics
Other

Medical
Building
Automotive/Transportation

The report focuses on the current market trends, estimates and forecasts for the period 2011-2016. More than 1500 in plastics market and 177 leading market players that project improved market activities in the near future are profiled.

The report consists of 141 data charts describing the market shares, sales forecasts and growth prospects. Moreover, key strategic activities in the market including mergers/acquisitions, collaborations/partnerships, product launches/developments are discussed which gives a deep insight into the growth perspectives of the market.

The region-wise distribution of the market consists of Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Russia, Belgium, The Netherlands, Poland and Rest of Europe); The Americas (USA, Canada, Argentina, Brazil and Rest of The Americas); Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and Rest of Asia-Pacific); Rest of World (South Africa, Middle East and Rest of Rest of the World).

The report also covers major industry participants with details of their services, projects and financial status.

About ResearchAndMarkets

ResearchAndMarkets is one of the leading sources for international market research and market data. It holds thousands of major research publications from most of the leading publishers, consultants and analysts. It provides you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Dow Corning & IBM Scientists Devise Silicone-based Flexible Polymer Material for Advanced Photonics

2013-02-18T11:27:00.004-08:00

SAN FRANCISCO -- At the Photonics West conference, Dow Corning and IBM scientists unveiled a major step in photonics, using a new type of polymer material to transmit light instead of electrical signals within supercomputers and data centers. This new silicone-based material offers better physical properties, including robustness and flexibility, making it ideal for applications in Big Data and for the development of future exascale computers, which are capable of performing a billion billion computations per second.

With exabytes of structured and unstructured data growing annually at 60 percent, scientists have been researching a range of technological advancements to drastically reduce the energy required to move all that data from the processor to the printed circuit board within a computer. Optical interconnect technology offers bandwidth and power efficiency advantages compared to established electrical signaling.

"Polymer waveguides provide an integrated means to route optical signals similar to how copper lines route electrical signals," explains Dr. Bert Jan Offrein, manager of the Photonics Research Group at IBM Research. "Our design is highly flexible, resistant to high temperatures and has strong adhesion properties — these waveguides were designed with no compromises."

In a collaboration with Dow Corning, the scientists for the first time fabricated thin sheets of optical waveguide that show no curling and can bend to a 1 mm radius and is stable at extreme operating conditions including 85percent humidity and 85°C. This new polymer, based on silicone materials, offers an optimized combination of properties for integration in established electrical printed circuit board technology. In addition, the material can be fabricated into waveguides using conventional manufacturing techniques available today.

"Dow Corning's breakthrough polymer waveguide silicone has positioned us at the forefront of a new era in robust, data-rich computing, especially as we continue to collaborate with outstanding industry leaders like IBM," said Eric Peeters, vice president, Dow Corning Electronic Solutions. "Optical waveguides made from Dow Corning's silicone polymer technology offer customers revolutionary new options for transmitting data substantially faster, and with lower heat and energy consumption. We are confident that silicone-based board-level interconnects will quickly supersede conventional electronic signal distribution to deliver the amazing speeds needed for tomorrow's supercomputers."

A presentation (entitled Flexible, Stable and Easily Processable Optical Silicones for Low-Loss Polymer Waveguides) given here by Brandon Swatowski, application engineer for Dow Corning Electronics Solutions, reported that fabrication of full waveguide builds can be completed in less than 45 minutes, and enable a high degree of process flexibility. Silicone polymer material, which is dispensed as a liquid, processes more quickly than competitive waveguide materials such as glass and does not require a controlled atmosphere chamber.

Swatowski's presentation went on to say that waveguide builds based on the silicone polymer showed excellent adhesion to polyimidesubstrates. It also discussed how optical characterization of the new polymer waveguides silicones showed losses as low as 0.03 dB/cm, with environmental stability extending past 2,000 hours exposure to high humidity and temperature, and good performance sustained over 500 thermal cycles between −40°C and 120°C.

® Dow Corning is a registered trademark of Dow Corning Corporation.
® XIAMETER is a registered trademark of Dow Corning Corporation.
® Responsible Care is a registered service mark of the American Chemistry Council, Inc.

About IBM

"The World is Our Laboratory No matter where discovery takes place", IBM researchers push the boundaries of science, technology and business to make the world work better. Today, IBM researchers are redefining where discovery happens by stepping outside of the laboratory and challenging the status quo to solve some of the world's most complex problems. From monitoring energy and water desalinization in the deserts of the Middle East to using nanopolymers to fight bacteria, IBM Research is a global community of forward-thinkers working towards a common goal: progress.

About Dow Corning

Dow Corning provides performance-enhancing solutions to serve the diverse needs of more than 25,000 customers worldwide. A global leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, Dow Corning offers more than 7,000 products and services via the company's Dow Corning® and XIAMETER® brands. Dow Corning is equally owned by The Dow Chemical Company and Corning, Incorporated. More than half of Dow Corning's annual sales are outside the United States. Dow Corning's global operations adhere to the American Chemistry Council's Responsible Care® initiative, a stringent set of standards designed to advance the safe and secure management of chemical products and processes.

A trusted innovation partner, Dow Corning Electronics Solutions helps customers drive future developments in electronics markets such as consumer electronics, data networking, electrical and conventional transportation, energy conversion, LED lighting, and power electronics. Solutions span the entire value chain, from semiconductor fabrication, to device packaging and complete module and system assembly. For more than 70 years, leading electronics companies around the world have turned to Dow Corning for high performance materials and technologies, advanced application expertise, reliable supply and customer service around the globe.

Arkema at International Symposium of PPE: Previewed Novel Resin for FRT Composite Parts

2013-02-18T11:26:00.002-08:00

Arkema previewed a new resin for the manufacture of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite parts at the 8th International Symposium ofPPE (Pole de Plasturgie de l'Est) at Saint Avold (France) on February 6 and 7. The new resin allows large thermoplastic composite parts to be manufactured for the first time using the same equipment and processes as those used for thermoset composites, without the addition of styrene.

The parts obtained provide similar high mechanical properties to thermoset composite parts, but have the advantage of being recyclable and suitable for thermoforming and welding.

This innovation and its commercial offer will be presented at the 2013 JEC trade fair from March 12 to 14.

The International Symposium of PPE is the world's only conference entirely dedicated to composites manufacturing processes and technologies (RTM and Infusion). It brings together every other year nearly 400 specialists, researchers and manufacturers from the composites sector around the world.

About Arkema

Among the France's leading chemicals producers, Arkema is aiming to become one of the global leaders in specialty chemicals. With its 14,000 employees and 85 industrial sites in 45 countries, Arkema has revenue close to €6.5 billion. With the divestment of its vinyl activities in mid-2012, the Group completed a strategic shift which had been initiated when the company was created in 2004. Arkema now aspires to become one of the global leaders in specialty chemicals.

Dow Corning at MD&M West: Unveils QP1 Silicone Elastomers for HCRs Used for Medical Tubing & more

2013-02-18T11:25:00.001-08:00

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Dow Corning, one among the global leaders in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation for the healthcare industry, announced at ongoing MD&M West (Hall D, Booth #1751) Dow Corning® QP1 Silicone Elastomers, a new silicone technology for the company's high consistency rubber (HCR) product line. Well suited for medical tubing and other extruded applications — including short-term implants — the one-part QP1 HCR bases are supplied uncatalyzed to offer medical device OEMs and fabricators processing flexibility, enabling them to choose the most suitable formulation for each application. The materials provide high strength and can be platinum catalyzed using Dow Corning masterbatches. Alternatively, the products can be cured using a peroxide initiated system.

Dow Corning® QP1 Silicone Elastomers for high consistency rubber (HCR) product line

Dow Corning® QP1 Silicone Elastomers are also U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) food contact compliant by formulation and are USP Class VI tested. For even greater choices, the materials are available in four durometers for a range of hardnesses.

"Our new QP1 silicone elastomer products were designed to give customers more options to meet changing requirements and market trends for medical devices, while also addressing the healthcare industry's need for greater manufacturing freedom," said James Stephenson, global market director, Dow Corning Healthcare. "Giving our customers the opportunity to select from different material properties, cure systems and fabrication methods permits a high level of tailoring and differentiation that can increase quality, efficiency and productivity to help give them a strong competitive edge."

Customers choosing to work with platinum catalyzed HCRs can select the company's platinum masterbatches including Dow Corning® QP1-47 Cross Linker, Dow Corning® QP1-48 Cure Controller and Dow Corning® QP1-51 Catalyst. These four-component platinum systems offer fabricators fine-grained control over multiple factors: cure curve, hardness, elongation and tensile strength. Peroxide initiated systems provide a cured product with good strength. Typically, a two-roll mill is used for blending.

The new QP1 HCR bases, supplied in Shore A hardnesses of 30, 50, 60 and 70, are formulated without the use of solvents, phthalates or latex additives. They meet FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 requirements for food contact components and devices.

Applications for the QP1 HCR grades include short-term (29 days or fewer) implants, such as surgical incision drains and catheters, as well as non-implant devices such as fluid handling tubing.

In addition to the QP1 HCR products, Dow Corning is exhibiting at its booth the company's complete portfolio of advanced materials solutions for the global healthcare industry.

About Dow Corning

About Dow Corning Healthcare

Dow Corning has more than 50 years of experience specializing in healthcare-related industries to improve the quality of life, transform patient care, and pioneer next generation innovation through silicone advancements. Dow Corning offers materials that are beneficial in drug delivery, wound and scar management, medical device fabrication and pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical processing.

IPG Photonics' Welding Tech Advances Welding of Products Made with Eastman's Tritan™ Copolyester

2013-02-18T11:22:00.002-08:00

KINGSPORT, Tenn. -- Eastman Chemical Company announced at the Medical Design & Manufacturing West (MD&M West) trade show in Anaheim, Calif., that new technology from IPG Photonics for welding clear-to-clear polymers with fiber lasers is available to weld products made with Eastman Tritan™ copolyester, including medical devices. A new-generation copolyester, Tritan has a balance of properties, including clarity, toughness and chemical resistance, and is not manufactured with bisphenol A.

The new technology is suitable for welding a range of translucent and transparent polymers creating welds that can be invisible to the human eye. This technique allows for high-strength welds on Eastman Tritan™ copolyester and allows Tritan to maintain its strength, clarity and processability attributes.

"Welding techniques typically require an energy-absorbing additive to be added to the polymer, and with medical applications, there is always the question of biocompatibility with the polymer and any additives," said Gopal R. Saraiya, global segment leader, medical devices, Eastman Chemical Company. "This new technology from IPG avoids the need for laser energy-absorbing additives. This technique has benefits for medical device brand owners and manufacturers who are developing products with Eastman Tritan™ copolyester."

Eliminating the need to purchase additives can result in a more cost-effective process for manufacturers. Additionally, because the welding work is done via laser, no tools come into contact with the medical device material, making this a highly clean and controllable process.

"There are numerous applications made with Eastman Tritan™ copolyester in multiple markets in various stages of development that would not be possible without IPG Photonics' new welding technology," said Tony Hoult, PhD., senior applications manager, IPG Photonics, Silicon Valley Technology Center. "For medical device manufacturers, the benefits of this welding technique include fully hermetic leak-proof precision joints that have a smooth weld that will not entrap bio-burden."

About Eastman Chemical Company

Eastman is a global specialty chemicals company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Eastman focuses on creating consistent, superior value for all stakeholders. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in approximately 100 countries and had 2012 pro forma combined revenues, giving effect to the Solutia acquisition, of approximately $9.1 billion. The company is headquartered in Kingsport, Tenn., and employs approximately 13,500 people around the world.

About IPG Photonics Corp.

IPG Photonics Corp. is one of world leaders in high-power fiber lasers and amplifiers. Founded in 1990, IPG pioneered the development and commercialization of optical fiber-based lasers for use in a wide range of applications such as materials processing, advanced applications, telecommunications and medical applications. Fiber lasers have revolutionized the industry by delivering superior performance, reliability and usability at a lower total cost of ownership compared with conventional lasers, allowing end users to increase productivity and decrease operating costs. IPG has its headquarters in Oxford, Mass., and has additional plants and offices throughout the world.

S. African Plastic Mkt Sees Wide Prospects for Recycling & Biodegradable Plastics: Frost & Sullivan

2013-02-18T11:21:00.003-08:00

CAPE TOWN, South Africa -- The South African plastic recycling market has been growing steadily over the past ten years. The increase in the number of self-regulating bodies will accelerate market growth. Biodegradable plastic products have entered South Africa in the past five years, predominantly through imports from Asia. This market has also witnessed stable growth, despite very low demand from large retailers and resistance from plastic recyclers.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Opportunities for Recycling and Biodegradable Plastic in the South African Plastic Market, finds that the market reached volumes of 254,436 metric tons in 2011 and estimates this to become nearly 356,429 metric tons in 2016.

"Converters are concerned that the government will start regulating the plastic recycling market and introduce high, compulsory levies on the plastic which they convert," noted Frost & Sullivan Chemicals & Materials Research Analyst Kim Watson. "This has led to the formation of self-sustaining bodies that collect levies from converters for the plastic recycling market."

The introduction of these self-sustaining bodies and voluntary levies has been seen as a way to delay the possibility of greater government involvement. Moreover, converters are fairly certain that these self-imposed levies will be lower than any levies that might be set by the government. Independent bodies have subsequently driven growth by ensuring that the money is channelled back into the plastic recycling market.

The biodegradable plastic market will be restrained by resistance from the South African recycling market, which claims that biodegradable plastics that are made with additives will contaminate the recycling stream and cause a large amount of loss in recycled plastic. Informal waste pickers, who collect post consumer waste, are unable to tell the difference between biodegradable plastic and non- biodegradable plastic, making the chances of contamination higher.

"The biodegradable plastic market needs to create more consumer awareness about their products and provide details on how their items need to be disposed of in order for them to complete their life-cycle," advised Watson. "In the meantime, government policy on waste management in South Africa will continue to increase awareness from all stakeholders involved, sustaining growth in both markets."

Opportunities for Recycling and Biodegradable Plastic in the South African Plastic Market is part of the Chemicals & Materials Growth Partnership Service programme, which also includes research in the following markets: Anionic Surfactant Market and its Importance to FMCG Manufacturers, and South African Market for Bio-renewable Chemicals. All research included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants.

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today's market participants. Its "Growth Partnership" supports clients by addressing these opportunities and incorporating two key elements driving visionary innovation: The Integrated Value Proposition and The Partnership Infrastructure.

The Integrated Value Proposition provides support to its clients throughout all phases of their journey to visionary innovation including: research, analysis, strategy, vision, innovation and implementation.

The Partnership Infrastructure is entirely unique as it constructs the foundation upon which visionary innovation becomes possible. This includes its 360 degree research, comprehensive industry coverage, career best practices as well as its global footprint of more than 40 offices.

For more than 50 years, it has been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community.

SABIC at MD&M West: Revealed Antimicrobial Resin Grades for Medical Equipment Manufacturers

2013-02-18T11:21:00.000-08:00

BERGEN OP ZOOM, The Netherlands -- According to a 2011 report by the World Health Organization, in 2002 in the United States alone approximately 99,000 deaths were linked to healthcare associated infections (HCAIs). At MD&M West 2013 [12-14 February], SABIC's Innovative Plastics business introduced powerful new tools to help medical device manufacturers reduce HCAIs among patients and clinicians. SABIC's nine new antimicrobial resin grades featuring silver technology have been tested for log reduction values — the level of microbes eliminated from a surface — according to the ISO 22196-2007 protocol. They comprise one of the broadest antimicrobial portfolios in the industry and offer distinct advantages over off-the-shelf antimicrobial concentrates combined with third-party resins.

Because SABIC scientists possess compounding expertise and a deep understanding of base resin and antimicrobial additive chemistries, they can optimize properties and performance to meet specific requirements. This new portfolio demonstrates SABIC's expertise and continued investment in developing healthcare materials that can empower customers globally to meet the ongoing challenges of infection prevention.

SABIC's New Portfolio of Antimicrobial Compounds Can be Used for Medical Equipment Like Healthcare Scanners

"We are proud of our vertically integrated approach, which delivers turnkey antimicrobial compounds containing low or high concentrations of silver and based on the four SABIC resins most commonly used in medical devices," said David Wildgoose, General Manager, Engineering Resins, Innovative Plastics. "Our solutions are backed by a robust healthcare product policy that provides a 'formula lock' and management of change provision to help OEMs avoid requalification delays of up to 12 months. Our comprehensive solution delivers multiple benefits to customers — consistency, cost-out, choice and proven performance according ISO methodology. We are confident these materials will make it easier for customers to create next-generation healthcare products while staying ahead of regulatory requirements."

Wide Selection of Antimicrobial Compounds

SABIC's portfolio comprises nine different antimicrobial grades across four product families: LEXAN™ EXL copolymer, LEXAN polycarbonate (PC) resin, XENOY™ PC/polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resin and polypropylene (PP) resins with and without fiberglass reinforcement. Five grades have a high antimicrobial effect (log reduction value above 4, representing a 99.99 percent reduction in pathogens) and four grades have a low antimicrobial effect (log reduction value below 4, representing a 99.0-99.99 percent reduction in pathogens). These options allow customers to select the appropriate formulation depending on whether the end product is a high- or low-touch application.

These resins leverage silver-based antimicrobial technology because silver is a proven performer, well suited to diverse applications and widely accepted as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial, with activity against many pathogens including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, mold and fungus. Because they are formulated to be effective at the lowest concentration of silver, SABIC resins may also be more cost-effective than competitive products.

Healthcare Product Policy for Added Confidence SABIC's antimicrobial resin grades are supported by its healthcare product policy, which gives customers confidence that these materials meet global standards for safety, are available in a consistently formulated supply and have been pre-assessed for biocompatibility.

The SABIC Healthcare Product Policy provides:

Easily identifiable product nomenclature ("H" or "PCG" series resins)
Biocompatibility assessment according to ISO 10993 or USP Class VI
Food contact compliance for most healthcare products
FDA Drug Master File and/or Device Master File listing (letter of authorization provided as needed)
A formula lock and stringent management of change process

Compounding Surpasses Concentrates

Instead of mixing a third-party base resin with off-the-shelf concentrates, which can lead to inconsistent performance, SABIC performs its own compounding using proven, high-performance resins and additive chemistries. The benefits of SABIC compounding over concentrates include uniform distribution of the additive for better performance and less manufacturing waste.

By leveraging multiple material characteristics — such as impact resistance, chemical resistance, custom colors and processability — and their interactions with the additive while controlling the compounding process, SABIC can deliver highly specialized performance properties, such as the duration and strength of the antimicrobial. Of particular importance is SABIC's expertise in color and effects, which allows precise control over clarity, a property that can be impacted by antimicrobials. Potential applications include fluid and drug delivery applications, surgical instruments, monitoring and imaging devices and durable medical equipment such as hospital beds and operating tables. Other potential applications outside of healthcare include consumer electronics, automobile interiors, business equipment such as copiers or ATMs, or any other surface where there is a desire to reduce the potential transference of pathogens.

Potential applications include fluid and drug delivery applications, surgical instruments, monitoring and imaging devices and durable medical equipment such as hospital beds and operating tables. Other potential applications outside of healthcare include consumer electronics, automobile interiors, business equipment such as copiers or ATMs, or any other surface where there is a desire to reduce the potential transference of pathogens.

SABIC's new antimicrobial resins are manufactured in the United States.

About SABIC

Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) ranks among the world's top petrochemical companies. The company is among the world's market leaders in the production of polyethylene, polypropylene and other advanced thermoplastics, glycols, methanol and fertilizers. SABIC recorded a net profit of SR 24.72 billion (US$ 6.59 billion) in 2012. Sales revenues for 2012 totaled SR 189 billion (US$ 50.40 billion). Total assets stood at SR 338 billion (US$ 90.13 billion) at the end of 2012.

SABIC's businesses are grouped into Chemicals, Polymers, Performance Chemicals, Fertilizers, Metals and Innovative Plastics. SABIC has significant research resources with 17 dedicated Technology & Innovation facilities in Saudi Arabia, the USA, the Netherlands, Spain, Japan, India and South Korea. The company operates in more than 40 countries across the world with around 40,000 employees worldwide.

SABIC manufactures on a global scale in Saudi Arabia, the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific. Headquartered in Riyadh, SABIC was founded in 1976 when the Saudi Arabian Government decided to use the hydrocarbon gases associated with its oil production as the principal feedstock for production of chemicals, polymers and fertilizers. The Saudi Arabian Government owns 70 percent of SABIC shares with the remaining 30 percent held by private investors in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

About Innovative Plastics

SABIC's Innovative Plastics business is a leading, global supplier of engineering thermoplastics with an 80-year history of breakthrough solutions that solve its customers' most pressing challenges. Today, Innovative Plastics is a multi-billion-dollar company with operations in more than 35 countries and approximately 9,000 employees worldwide. The company continues to lead the plastics industry with customer collaboration and continued investments in new polymer technologies, global application development, process technologies, and environmentally responsible solutions that serve diverse markets such as Healthcare, Transportation, Automotive, Electrical, Lighting and Consumer Electronics. The company's extensive product portfolio includes thermoplastic resins, coatings, specialty compounds, film, and sheet. Innovative Plastics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).

PTI, ATMI Create PET & PEN Based BrightPak® System, a Better Packaging Alternative for Chemicals

2013-02-18T11:17:00.001-08:00

HOLLAND, Ohio -- A next-generation liquid dispensing and delivery system — featuring a collapsible rigid liner inside a bottle — will be changing the way sensitive chemicals and other products are delivered. Known as BrightPak®, the system is the brainchild of ATMI, Inc., a leader in packaging solutions for specialty liquid materials.

ATMI's objective was to create a value-added alternative to large glass bottles and other traditional systems that store and dispense photolithography chemicals used in the manufacturing of semiconductors, LEDs and flat panel displays. ATMI is offering these delivery systems to chemical suppliers who desire improved safety and performance with cost benefits.

BrightPak dispensing liner: BrightPak inner liner collapses as liquid is dispensed

To help create a commercially-viable package from an innovative design, ATMI relied on Plastic Technologies, Inc. (PTI), a leading and global package engineering firm with experience in advanced manufacturing techniques and tailored production process development. Together, the companies overcame multiple structural and production challenges to make commercialization of BrightPak systems a reality.

The BrightPak system's primary components are created from two separate preforms. Thepolyethylene terephthalate (PET) preform is used to blow mold a bottle with a capacity of 4.6 liters. The second preform is made from polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) and is used to create the rigid, three-dimensional collapsible interior "liner" which holds the chemicals.

The primary objectives for the interior rigid liner were that it had to collapse at low pressure without tearing, be compatible with various chemicals and dispense 99 percent of the product. The bottle around it had to withstand six times the dispensing pressure (greater than 90 pounds per square inch) to provide an additional safety cushion.

Additionally, the system needed to withstand shipping and storage conditions down to −20°F and also block out 99.9 percent of light from 190-425 nanometers which is in the ultraviolet (UV)-to-visible range. The inner PEN and outer PET (with amber colorant) components deliver just that.

However, one of the biggest issues was the "ship in a bottle" challenge of how to place the rigid inner PEN liner into the outer PET bottle. PTI, with its 25 years of plastics engineering expertise, found a proprietary solution.

"PTI was an excellent development partner for our BrightPak product. We worked together to create a system that was commercially-viable and economically feasible," said Chris Kramer, senior vice president of materials solutions, ATMI. "BrightPak technology is an innovation that reduces customer risk and delivers improved safety and performance. Simply stated, the BrightPak system is a safer, cleaner, better packaging alternative."

The two-piece assembly fits into a third component — a blow-molded, full-body PET "base cup." Because the PET bottle has structural panels which make labeling challenging, the textured full body cup facilitates branding options and also provides a stable base for the bottle's slightly-rounded bottom. Its amber color provides another layer of UV and shipping protection.

The BrightPak packages dispense liquids using pressure (direct or indirect) or pump systems. It is specifically designed to eliminate the sources of bubble formation and particle defects caused by pump and vacuum delivery containers. Drive gas can be applied between the rigid liner and the bottle. Once in this space, the pressure from the gas squeezes the rigid liner causing it to collapse and force the chemical out of the bottle. The system dispenses the chemical through a sealed pathway from the liner to the dispense tool. It also protects the chemical contents from external contamination. The rigid liner eventually collapses fully and ensures optimal dispense results.

The BrightPak technology, which ATMI also refers to as a "double containment" system, offers users multiple benefits, including approximately 21% additional volume compared to the typical one-gallon glass bottle used in lithography applications today. (Glass typically has thicker sidewalls and often a longer neck which negatively impact fill volume.) The higher fill volume is possible without impacting labeling surface, the handle location or the physical dimension of storage and usage locations.

Additional advantages include exceptional chemical protection from environmental factors, as well as accidents and operator errors. Unlike glass bottles, the BrightPak system is made from shatter-resistant plastic resins minimizing the chance of costly chemical spills and production shutdowns. (Filled BrightPak containers have successfully passed drop tests ranging between four and eight feet.) The system also reduces the amount of chemical residuals requiring disposal.

ATMI believes its BrightPak liquid delivery system is ideally suited for applications beyond those originally intended and it is interested in pursuing licensing opportunities. Potential markets include adhesives, pharmaceutical, food, beverage and others. The resin used for each layer can be altered depending on performance requirements.

About ATMI

ATMI, Inc. provides specialty semiconductor materials, and safe, high-purity materials handling and delivery solutions designed to increase process efficiencies for the worldwide semiconductor, flat panel, and life sciences industries. ATMI and BrightPak are trademarks or registered trademarks of Advanced Technology Materials, Inc. in the United States, other countries or both.

About Plastic Technologies

Plastic Technologies, Inc. (PTI) is recognized worldwide as the preferred source for preform and package design, package development,rapid prototyping, pre-production prototyping, and material evaluation engineering for the plastic packaging industry.

ASTM Develops Novel Standard ASTM F2820 for PEKK Polymers for Surgical Implant Applications

2013-02-18T11:14:00.002-08:00

Many types of surgical implants and other medical devices are made of polymeric materials. A new ASTM standard covers the raw material properties for a high strength polymer used for surgical implants.

ASTM F2820, Specification for Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) Polymers for Surgical Implant Applications, has been developed by ASTM International Subcommittee F04.11 on Polymeric Materials, part of Committee F04 on Medical and Surgical Devices.

"Having ASTM F2820 available will make it easier to develop and obtain regulatory approval for new devices because the material requirements set forth in the standard were based on the properties of resins that have been proven to be biocompatible and have been used in successful long-term implantable devices," says Jon Moseley, director of implant technology, Wright Medical Technology Inc., and chairman of F04.11.

ASTM F2820 specifies allowable ranges for composition, mechanical and physical properties, as well as acceptable quality control practices, for PEKK polymers used in the manufacture of medical devices. Each of the factors covered by the standard is important in assuring that the materials used will perform as expected.

"This is of particular importance in permanent implant applications, where failure can lead to additional surgical procedures and potentially harm the patient," says Moseley. "In addition, using materials that meet the requirements of ASTM F2820 can reduce or eliminate the need for animal testing for these materials."

ASTM F2820 will be used by resin manufacturers for quality control and as a guide for developing master files, compilations of test data for use by device developers and regulatory agencies. The standard will be useful in the approval process for new devices, since both developers and agencies recognize the value of using standardized materials to help ensure the safety and efficacy of medical devices.

Interested parties are welcome to join in the standards developing activities of F04.11. In addition to the task group that developed ASTM F2820, other task groups are working on acrylics (for example, bone cement), absorbable polymers and ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene. The subcommittee is particularly interested in participation from surgeons, since they are in the best position to provide feedback on the performance of devices fabricated from polymeric materials.

About ASTM

ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), is a globally recognized leader in the development and delivery of international voluntary consensus standards. Today, some 12,000 ASTM standards are used around the world to improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade, and build consumer confidence.

Cotswold to Process & Weave CRAiLAR Flax Fibers for Branded Apparels

2013-02-18T11:13:00.001-08:00

VICTORIA, B.C. and PORTLAND, Oregon -- CRAiLAR Technologies Inc., which produces and markets CRAiLAR®, a natural fiber made from flax and other bast fibers, has entered a development agreement with Cotswold Industries Inc. to encompass sustainable pocketing and waist banding for its branded apparel customers. Cotswold affiliate Central Textiles, in Central S.C., will be the primary conduit for the processing and weaving of CRAiLAR Flax Fiber for the product line.

"We continue to identify new market opportunities for CRAiLAR that fit into both long-term category opportunities and increased brand awareness," said Ken Barker, CEO of CRAiLAR Technologies. "Cotswold is exactly that kind of partner in terms of its work with global brands, its specialization in the area we are developing with the company, and the opportunity to grow therein."

"We are excited to help develop and market such a truly sustainable, high strength and versatile fiber into our mass market channels," said James McKinnon, CEO of Cotswold Industries. "Partnering with CRAiLAR fits perfectly within our corporate strategy to be a leader in environmentally conscious textile manufacturing."

About Cotswold Industries

Cotswold Industries is a privately held, family owned company that provides textiles for industrial, nonwovens, apparel and technical applications. It is supplier to dozens of brands including Levi Strauss & Co., VF Corporation, Abercrombie & Fitch, Eddie Bauer, JC Penney, True Religion and Lands End. It was founded in 1954 and its headquarters are in New York City.

About CRAiLAR Technologies Inc.

CRAiLAR® Technologies Inc., previously Naturally Advanced Technologies Inc., offers cost-effective and environmentally sustainable natural fiber in the form of flax, hemp and other bast fibers for use in textile, industrial, energy, medical and composite material applications. Produced using a fraction of water and chemical inputs compared with other natural fibers, CRAiLAR Flax is the newest natural fiber introduction to the market in decades. The Company supplies its CRAiLAR Flax to HanesBrands, Georgia-Pacific, Brilliant Global Knitwear, Tuscarora Yarns, Target Corp. and Kowa Company for commercial use, and to Levi Strauss & Co., Cintas, Carhartt, Ashland, PVH Corp. and Lenzing for evaluation and development. The Company was founded in 1998 as a provider of environmentally friendly, socially responsible clothing.

Growing Demand of Bio-based Chemicals to Stress on Feedstocks by 2030, Predicts Lux Research

2013-02-18T11:11:00.002-08:00

BOSTON, MA -- Driven by aggressive biofuel mandates, rapid growth will cause great strain on biomass by 2030, according to Lux Research. Using today's technologies, an area the size of Russia would need to be cultivated to replace all of petroleum use for chemicals and fuels — feedstock innovation will be needed to keep growing biomass's market share.

"Today, biofuels and biochemicals need more than a billion metric tons of material annually to replace a mere 3% of total petroleum products," said Kalib Kersh, Lux Research Analyst and one of the lead authors of the report titled, "Finding Feedstocks for the Bio-Based Fuels and Chemicals of Today and 2030."

"By 2030, this number will soar to 3.7 billion metric tons, and meeting the growing challenge will require feedstock innovations such as crop modification, new value chain configurations, and agronomic technology improvements like irrigation and biosensors," he added.

Lux Research built a database of 1,715 established and planned bio-based chemical and fuel facilities that address supply-side issues, and evaluated new technologies that could make a significant difference. Among its findings:

Use of waste as a feedstock is rising. Municipal solid waste (MSW) and waste gases like carbon dioxide and flue gas have potential as a feedstock. LanzaTech aims to make ethanol and 2,3-butanediol from flue gas, while Fulcrum BioEnergy is financing its first MSW gasification facility.
Novel logistics methods can lower cost. Alternative fuel companies such as Sweetwater Energy and BlackGold Biofuels are developing "hub-and-spoke" models to build satellite intermediate conversion facilities that feed into a central processing facility, cutting transportation costs.
Crop modifications to reduce input needs. Dozens of companies and universities are developing crop traits that cut down on agriculture's material inputs. For example, BASF, Mendel Biotechnology and Evogene are developing crop strains that provide resistance to drought and pests, or can fix their own nitrogen.

Milacron Acquires Mold-Masters to Offer Advanced Plastics Processing Technologies

2013-02-18T11:09:00.000-08:00

CINCINNATI, Ohio, and Georgetown, Ontario -- Milacron LLC, a global plastics industry leader and provider of premium fluids to the metalworking industry, and Mold-Masters, a leading global hot-runner manufacturer with a strong presence in North America, Europe and Asia, announced they are combining to form a leading global solutions provider positioned to serve the full range of customer needs. Milacron is backed by its private equity investor CCMP Capital Advisors.

The transformative transaction will create a rapidly growing company with world-class capabilities across five businesses: Milacron (Plastics Machinery), Mold-Masters (Hot Runners), DME (Mold Base Technologies), Aftermarket (Parts and Service) and CIMCOOL® Fluid Technology (Metalworking Fluids and Services). Each business will continue to focus on the unique, value-added solutions they bring to their respective customers while leveraging the tremendous synergies that exist among all the businesses.

The combined entity will provide its customers with market-leading technologies, superb global engineering and R&D leadership. Through their complementary product lines, Milacron and Mold-Masters will be able to offer a broader portfolio of exceptional products and services, providing solutions for customers' complex plastics needs.

In addition, with enhanced financial and operational strength, reduced cyclicality, and a diverse international footprint with a strong market position in hot runners in Asia, the combined company will have greater opportunities for global expansion.

Under the terms of the transaction, Milacron will acquire 100% of the shares of Mold-Masters for an enterprise value of $975 million. Tom Goeke, Chief Executive Officer of Milacron will lead the combined entity with the support of an outstanding management team with a talented, global team of employees. Bill Barker, President and CEO of Mold Masters will continue to lead that business.

Goeke said, "The acquisition creates a global leader in the plastics industry with the scale, technological leadership, international presence and competitive positioning to deliver a wide range of products and services to more customers in more markets around the world. Mold-Masters' expertise in the high-growth hot-runner market is second to none, and we are excited by the unique customer value proposition and numerous opportunities for growth that will result from this combination. Bill Barker, his management team and all of his employees share our commitment to excellence. We are thrilled that they will continue to lead the Mold-Masters business going forward and are excited to welcome them to our team."

Barker said, "We are also very excited to join Milacron and become part of an industry-leading company known for providing high-quality plastics processing equipment and products, as well as exceptional customer service and aftermarket support. We have developed deep relationships with our customers over the course of many years and will continue to work closely with them to deliver the products and services they rely on, just as we do today. I am confident that combining Mold-Masters' unique capabilities with Milacron's will position the new company to provide even greater benefits to customers. I look forward to working closely with Tom and his team to realize the incredible growth potential of our combined organization. We were privileged to have 3i as a partner over the last five years with their strong support for our global growth goals and continued investments in technology. We are equally excited to be at Milacron where we will have another world class investor like CCMP to support our continued growth."

Tim Walsh, a Managing Director of CCMP Capital Advisors, said, "This transaction is a major step in Milacron's strategic growth plan which reinforces our support of the company's exciting prospects and our commitment to leveraging our extensive experience in the plastics industry to help Milacron maximize its global market opportunities and increase its value to customers."

The transaction, subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close in the first half of 2013.

About Mold-Masters

Mold-Masters Limited is one of the global leaders in melt delivery and control systems. It designs and manufactures the plastic industry's most advanced hot-runner systems, temperature controllers and auxiliary equipment. Since 1963, Mold-Masters has invested heavily in research and development. With over 900 granted and pending patents, Mold-Masters has created many technology breakthroughs and enabled countless new ways of molding parts with hot-runners. With manufacturing facilities in North America, South America, Europe, India and Asia, as well as sales and service support in 70 countries, Mold-Masters spans the globe with its capabilities.

About Milacron LLC

Milacron LLC and its businesses are committed to being the leading suppliers of plastics-processing technologies and industrial fluids around the world. The people of Milacron's companies know what matters in manufacturing, and every day, put this know how to work to help customers improve productivity, cut costs, increase energy efficiency, eliminate scrap and reduce cycle times.

Philips Picks PolyOne's Customized TPEs to Deliver Safety Compliance for Home Healthcare Products

2013-02-18T11:07:00.002-08:00

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- PolyOne GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers, one of the global leaders in high-performance, custom-formulated thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) solutions, announced it has collaborated with Philips to develop an effective, durable and safe solution to create sealing disks that allow mothers to convert their Philips AVENT bottles into breast milk storage containers. By selecting this high-performance material, which has passed stringent testing, Philips can accelerate final product compliance and get to market faster.

"We've developed this line of TPEs for applications having fatty food contact to help manufacturers create products that meet tough FDA and EU requirements," said Charles Page, director of global marketing, PolyOne GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers. "Our proactive work in achieving compliance for these materials helps customers gain a significant competitive edge by raising the ability of their final products to meet increasingly stringent regulatory requirements."

Peter Wagner, senior buyer at Philips, added, "Safety is a promise to our customers and a priority we at Philips make every day to ensure our innovative products improve the health and lifestyle of our customers. GLS Versaflex FFC TPE from PolyOne is an excellent material for these sealing discs. In addition to forming a tight, long-lasting seal, it also complies with stringent food safety regulations for this application while helping us meet our customers' high expectations for quality and performance."

Regulatory compliance was key to Philips' selection of Versaflex FFC material, which meets the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) rigorous 21 CFR 177.2600 standard governing use of TPE materials intended for repeated contact with fatty foods. In addition, it meets the composition requirements for plastics identified in Commission Regulation EU No 10/2011, as well as China's similar GB 4806.1-94 standard. The material also complies with Europe's Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive.

Versaflex FFC TPEs are ideal solutions for products that require repeat refrigeration, re-heating, storage and sterilization at elevated temperatures. Other applications include kitchen utensils, such as flexible spatulas and blender covers, gaskets for food storage containers, baby bottle seals and nipples, and similar food contact items.

About PolyOne

PolyOne Corporation, with 2012 revenues of $3 billion, is a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions. The company is dedicated to serving customers in diverse industries around the globe, by creating value through collaboration, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Guided by its Core Values, Sustainability Promise and No Surprises Pledge^SM, PolyOne is committed to its customers, employees, communities and shareholders through ethical, sustainable and fiscally responsible principles.

Bayer at MD&M West: Unveiled PC Grades Formulated to Meet Unique Demands of Medical Industry

2013-02-18T11:02:00.003-08:00

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Medical technology continues to advance by leaps and bounds. But bringing life-saving products to market requires more than medical breakthroughs: it also requires materials that can meet the rigorous challenges these applications demand. Bayer Material Science LLC offers grades of polycarbonate resins and blends formulated specifically to meet the unique requirements of the medical industry.

Bayer highlighted its portfolio of plastics and the applications these materials help bring to life at MD&M West — the world's largest medical device design and manufacturing event.

Bayer unveiled a new, medical-grade polycarbonate during the event. Makrolon® Rx2440 plastic possesses optimal flow properties and achieves faster recovery time in color shift from sterilization to part usage. This material is well suited to a variety of applications, including IV access, respiratory, surgical and renal care.

Integra Launches Solvay's Radel® PPSU-based ColorGrip® Gasket Rings for Biopharma Industry

2012-12-19T11:42:00.007-08:00

ALPHARETTA, Ga. --Color-coded ColorGrip® gaskets from Integra Companies, Devens, Mass., feature colored locator rings made of Radel® polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) resin from Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, LLC, for high-purity fluid handling applications for the biopharmaceutical industry. The locator rings made of Radel® PPSU are more chemically resistant and offer better sterilization than those made of competing plastics while also boasting colorability and extended service life.

The injection molded locator rings solve common installation problems by aligning the gasket, which is made of EPDM elastomer, on the ferrule face. The grip design also improves installation by freeing up the hands for assembling the clamp. The Radel® PPSU locator ring is available in eight color options to provide external identification. Color coding can be easily used to segregate process fluids, identify essential processes, or to simplify preventative maintenance replacements. Cavallero Plastics, Pittsfield, Mass., molds the outer ring made of Radel® PPSU and the U.K.'s James Walker & Co. Ltd., developer of Elast-O-Pure® EP75 EPDM elastomer, injection molds the gasket onto the outer ring.

Radel® PPSU was selected because of its superior strength, high thermal performance, chemical resistance, and strong sterilizability, according to Dwight Long, president of Integra Companies. Meanwhile, the Elast-O-Pure® EP75 EPDM elastomer provides unparalleled sealing performance in critical bioprocessing applications, improved compression set, strong release properties, and excellent resistance to Steam in Place (SIP) processes and Clean in Place (CIP) chemicals, resulting in extended service life.

Radel® PPSU is a super-tough thermoplastic with high heat resistance, exceptional hydrolytic stability, and excellent chemical resistance. It can withstand over 1000 cycles of steam sterilization without significant loss of properties. It is inherently flame retardant and is resistant to bases and other chemicals. Radel® PPSU is also compliant with ISO 10993-1 for limited exposure applications.

The color-coded smooth transition gaskets are used for a range of tubing, fittings, and hoses in high-purity fluid handling applications for the bioprocessing industry.

About Solvay Specialty Polymers

Solvay Specialty Polymers is a global leader in the development of sulfone polymer technology, launching Udel® polysulfone nearly 45 years ago. In addition, Solvay's experience as a key materials supplier in the healthcare field spans more than 20 years. The company is a leading manufacturer of high-performance plastics, offering a broad range of materials for healthcare instruments and medical devices. More recently, Solvay has successfully introduced its line of Solviva® Biomaterials and offers them for use in a range of implantable devices

About Integra Companies

Devens, Mass.-based Integra Companies, founded in 1974, is a leading supplier of high-purity fluid handling solutions for the biopharmaceutical, food processing, microelectronic, and specialty market industries. The company offers a comprehensive circle of services backed by highly-trained product specialists, engineers, and precision fabricators. Integra Companies is the Northeast's only ISO 9001:2008 certified, cGMP compliant distributor with in-house fabrication capabilities.

About Solvay Specialty Polymers

Solvay Specialty Polymers is a leading global supplier of high-performance thermoplastics for implantable and non-implantable medical devices. The company has expanded its focus on the healthcare industry to meet the growing needs of its global customers. Last year, Solvay announced a new organizational structure and a 50% increase in staffing for sales, marketing, and technology functions in the U.S. and Europe. Plans for further expansion in Asia-Pacific are also underway. Solvay is building on its 20-year history as a key material supplier in the healthcare field, devoting considerable new resources to help customers be more efficient and cut costs. Metal-to-plastic replacement remains a key focus for manufacturers, but increased cost pressures pose a new challenge as the market continues to grow at a double-digit pace. Solvay also continues to devote considerable research and development activities to polymer technology and commercialization of new and unique material options for medical OEMs and processors.

Solvay Specialty Polymers manufactures more products with more performance than any other polymer company in the world. The company supplies over 1500 products across 33 brands of high-performance polymers - fluoropolymers, fluoroelastomers, fluorinated fluids, semi-aromatic polyamides, sulfone polymers, aromatic ultra polymers, high-barrier polymers and cross-linked high-performance compounds - for use in Aerospace, Alternative Energy, Automotive, Healthcare, Membranes, Oil & Gas, Packaging, Plumbing, Semiconductors, Wire & Cable, and other markets.

About Solvay

Solvay is an international chemical Group committed to sustainable development with a clear focus on innovation and operational excellence. It is realizing over 90% of its sales in markets where it is among the top 3 global leaders. Solvay offers a broad range of products that contribute to improving quality of life and the performance of its customers in markets such as consumer goods, construction, automotive, energy, water and environment, and electronics. The Group is headquartered in Brussels and its companies, which employ about 31,000 people in 55 countries, generated EUR 12.7 billion in net sales in 2011 (pro forma).

DuPont, Chery Illustrate Benefits of Vamac® AEM & Zytel® Nylon Resin for Light-weight Vehicle Parts

2012-12-19T11:40:00.003-08:00

WUHU, China -- The Chery taxi featured in a DuPont mini-documentary illustrating the benefits of lightweighting, uses several DuPont advanced materials, including DuPont™ Zytel® nylon resin and DuPont™ Vamac® ethylene acrylic elastomer in components ranging from air-intake manifold and cylinder head cover to air ducts.

Together the components account for about 30-40 percent decrease in component weight compared with their metal counterpart, generating a significant increase in fuel economy and reduction in CO₂ emissions.

"The need to continue the drive to improve the sustainability of vehicles to meet mobility needs continues to drive innovation in the automotive industry," said James Hay, regional director, Asia Pacific, DuPont Performance Polymers. "Working closely with customers helps ensure we develop advanced material solutions that deliver more sustainable solutions without compromising performance, safety or cost."

Less Means More

The DuPont video features Cao Tieniu, who drives a Chery taxi in Wuhu, China. "Compared to some cars, it uses less fuel," he said. "For those of us who drive taxis, it increases our profits." For Tieniu, that translates to more time with his family.

"Lightweighting technology is a very important component in the process of fuel efficiency," said Chen Anning, vice president, Chery Automobile. "There has been a lot of cooperation between DuPont and Chery."

Chery has a long history with DuPont working with the teams in the China R&D center and around the world to develop lightweight components throughout the vehicles, but especially in engine components and systems. "Components surrounding the engine need to be resistant to high temperatures," said Charlie Huang, business director, DuPont Performance Polymers, Greater China. "This is where engineering polymers can demonstrate their power." Currently, the business is collaborating with Chery on developing plastic oil pans for several new engines which have high market potentials.

"Together we established the Chery-DuPont Joint Laboratory of New Materials Technology and Application Development in August 2010. It is an important platform for sharing new technologies and products and demonstrating development results," said Anning. "The collaboration focuses on light weighting, new energy vehicles, interior and exterior accessories, advanced coating process, etc. Chery is committed to the development of hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, new environmentally friendly materials, and new processes."

DuPont - one of the first companies to publicly establish environmental goals more than 20 years ago - has broadened its sustainability commitments beyond internal footprint reduction to include market-driven targets for both revenue and research and development investment. The goals are tied directly to business growth, specifically to the development of safer and environmentally improved new products for key global markets.

DuPont offers more than 100 materials and product families for the global automotive industry. Through its global application development network, DuPont Automotive is committed to collaborating with customers throughout the value chain to develop new products, materials, components and systems that help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and protect people and the environment.

About DuPont

DuPont has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802. The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs, and thought leaders we can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment.

About Chery Automobile

Chery Automobile Co. Ltd was founded on Jan. 8, 1997, with registered capital of RMB 3.98 billion. Plant construction commenced on March 18, 1997, the first car came off the production line on December 18, 1999, and on July 27, 2011, the three-millionth car of Chery rolled out the assembly line successfully. At present, Chery possesses an annual production capacity of 900,000 cars, engines and 450,000 transmissions.