HIGHEST ENGINEERING PLASTIC PERFORMANCE AT ZERO CARBON FOOTPRINT

DSM Engineering Plastics has expanded further its Green Portfolio with the introduction of EcoPaXX™, a bio-based, high performance engineering plastic. The new material, which is based on polyamide (PA) 410, has been developed by DSM in recent years, and is now set to be commercialized.

Polyamide 410 is a “long-chain polyamide”. It pairs typical long-chain polyamide properties, such as low moisture absorption, with high melting point (highest of all bio-plastics) and high crystallization rate (typical for engineering plastics such as polyamide 66 and Stanyl polyamide 46). It combines the best of both worlds and is therefore suitable for many high-tech applications.

Zero carbon footprint

Newly-introduced EcoPaXX™ is a green, bio-based material: approximately 70% of the polymer consists of building blocks derived from castor oil as a renewable resource. Castor oil is a unique natural material and is obtained from the Ricinus Communis plant, which grows in tropical regions. It is grown in relatively poor soil conditions, and its production does not compete with the food-chain.

EcoPaXX™ has been shown to be 100 % carbon neutral from cradle to gate, which means that the carbon dioxide which is generated during the production process of the polymer, is fully compensated by the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed in the growth phase of the castor beans. According to Kees Tintel, project manager EcoPaXX™ “the carbon footprint of plastics is rapidly becoming a hot issue for Customers, therefore they really appreciate EcoPaXX™ being carbon neutral!”

High performance

EcoPaXX™ is a high-performance polyamide with excellent mechanical properties. It combines the benefits of a high melting point of ca. 250oC, with a high rate of crystallization enabling high productivity. The material has low moisture absorption and excellent chemical and hydrolysis resistance, which makes it highly suitable for various demanding applications, for instance in the automotive and electrical markets. A good example is its very good resistance to salts, such as calcium chloride. Because of its low moisture absorption, EcoPaXX™ will also keep good strength and stiffness after conditioning.

Market introduction phase

“DSM Engineering Plastics is proud to have EcoPaXX™, the “Green Performer” , in a market introduction phase. Combining unique DSM knowledge with the skills of Mother Nature allows our Customers to benefit from a new step towards a more sustainable world” says Roelof Westerbeek, President of DSM Engineering Plastics.

Reader enquiries

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Singapore 117440
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Notes for editors

DSM Engineering Plastics

DSM Engineering Plastics is one of the world's leading suppliers of quality engineering thermoplastics providing customer value through sustainable solutions that reflect the DSM People, Planet and Profit strategy. DSM Engineering Plastics delivers innovative opportunities for customers who design or produce electrical applications, electronic equipment, cars, barrier packaging films as well as many mechanical and extrusion applications. These markets are served with a broad portfolio of high performance materials including Akulon® 6 and 66 polyamides, Arnitel® TPC, Arnite® PBT and PET polyesters, Yparex® extrudable adhesive resins, and Stanyl® high heat 46 polyamides. Most recently, DSM Engineering Plastics introduced the first new polymer of the 21st century: Stanyl® ForTiiTM. DSM Engineering Plastics had sales in 2008 of EUR 761 with 1500 employees employed worldwide. More on: www.dsmep.com.

DSM – the Life Sciences and Materials Sciences Company

Royal DSM N.V. creates innovative products and services in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences that contribute 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 more enjoyable way of life. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrical and electronics, life protection and housing. DSM has annual net sales of EUR 9.3 billion and employs some 23,500 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations on five continents. DSM is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. More information: www.dsm.com.

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