14 Jan 2008
PA4T extends range of high performance materials:
DSM INTRODUCES BREAKTHROUGH POLYMER
DSM Engineering Plastics has announced the development of PA4T, a new polymer which extends the portfolio for high performance engineering thermoplastics. DSM Engineering Plastics is the inventor and global market leader in high performance polyamides with Stanyl® , a polyamide 46.
New PA4T offers an exciting and unique balance of properties including excellent dimensional stability, compatibility with lead free soldering, high stiffness and mechanical strength at elevated temperatures, high melting point, and excellent processability in terms of flow and processing window. The new polymer will answer to market trends for miniaturization and convergence of electronic devices like cell phones and computers. It will assist automakers in continued weight reduction efforts for better fuel efficiency and lower costs.
According to Roelof Westerbeek, Global Business Director, Stanyl®: “PA4T materials are highly suitable for electronics applications such as memory card connectors, CPU sockets, high temperature bobbins, and notebook computer memory module connectors, based on its excellent compatibility in lead free surface mount technology and dimensional stability. In automotive markets, we expect the material to support new developments in under the hood applications relating to automotive electrical systems, air/fuel and powertrain components.
"This is an exciting opportunity for our customers. PA4T is a promising complementary product in our portfolio, which will help them to achieve higher performance in their applications and lower system costs. This development will support green initiatives such as lead free soldering and improved fuel economy.”
DSM has filed patents on the new polymer, developed compounds and held initial investigative trials with market leaders for various end uses. Results to date have been impressive and DSM is currently constructing a market development plant at the Chemelot site in Sittard-Geleen, the Netherlands, which will provide quantities of the polymer for
pre-marketing. The market development plant will become operational in the first quarter 2008.
Dan Bishop, Global Marketing Manager, Stanyl® said: “We are committed to moving as quickly as possible to bring this new material to the market and to extend the number of applications where high performance polyamides can be effective. DSM is one of the few companies in the engineering plastics field today with sufficient technological strength and commitment to bring a polymer to the market which is truly new and will provide customers with the opportunity to re-consider their designs and material choices.”
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Notes for editors
DSM Engineering Plastics
DSM Engineering Plastics is a Business Group in the performance materials cluster of DSM, with sales in 2006 of EUR 1005 million (which number includes the sales of DSM Dyneema) and approximately 1300 employees worldwide. It is one of the world's leading suppliers of engineering thermoplastics offering a broad portfolio of high performance products including Stanyl® PA 46 and Akulon® 6 and 66 polyamides, Arnitel® TPE-E, Arnite® PBT and PET polyesters, Xantar® polycarbonate, Yparex® extrudable adhesive resins. These materials are used in technical components for electrical appliances, electronic equipment and cars, in barrier packaging films as well as in many mechanical and extrusion applications. With Stanyl®, it is the global market leader in high heat polyamides.
About DSM
DSM creates innovative products and services in life sciences and materials sciences , contributing to the quality of life. DSM's products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and enjoyable way of living. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrics & electronics, life protection and housing. The company strategy, Vision 2010 - Building on Strengths , focuses on accelerating profitable and innovative growth of the company's specialties portfolio. The key drivers of this strategy are market-driven growth and innovation, an increased presence in emerging economies and operational excellence. DSM has annual sales of almost €9 billion and employs some 22,000 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations in Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa and Australia. More information on DSM can be found at www.dsm.com .
Akulon®, Arnite®, Arnitel®, Stanyl®, Xantar® and Yparex® are registered trademarks of Royal DSM
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