14 Oct 2009

DSM ENGINEERING PLASTICS RECOGNIZED FOR LEADING THE INDUSTRY IN GREENING CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

DSM Engineering Plastics has been recognized as a leading solutions provider that supports and enables the electronics industry to move away from chemicals that can lead to health and environmental problems. In a new precedent setting research report “Greening Consumer Electronics: Moving Away from Bromine and Chlorine”, the International Chemical Secretariat (ChemSec) and US based environmental organization Clean Production Action (CPA) identified seven companies who have engineered environmental solutions that negate the need for most - or in some cases all - uses of brominated and chlorinated chemicals. The seven companies include, amongst others, Apple, Sony Ericsson and DSM Engineering Plastics.

The report describes how the biggest brands in Electronics work closely with suppliers to develop new components that meet the necessary technical and safety performance specifications, as well as material restrictions on bromine and chlorine use. Subsequently, it mentions how DSM Engineering Plastics is among the first chemical companies to offer a complete portfolio of engineering plastics that are free of these substances: “The company produced a brand new generic polyamide (Stanyl® ForTii™) for connectors and sockets and a new thermoplastic copolyester (Arnitel® XG) that can be used as a replacement for PVC- based wires and cables.”

Responding to the report, DSM Engineering Plastics President Roelof Westerbeek said: “It is gratifying that our efforts are being recognized. We see this as a clear endorsement of our sustainability approach as we continue to find ways to reduce the health and environmental impact of our activities. At the same time we will improve the eco-efficiency of our products and processes on an ongoing basis.”

DSM Engineering Plastics worked together with suppliers to overcome manufacturing and design challenges that inhibited the replacement of BFRs and PVC. This has resulted in a portfolio of bromine- and chlorine-free products that enable producers of electrical and electronic equipmen to continue to meet high(er) reliability, performance, and quality requirements.

One of the latest innovations in this halogen free portfolio is Stanyl ForTii for e.g. SMT connectors and sockets. Stanyl ForTii is a halogen-free, flame-retarded, high-temperature polyamide. It extends the application range of current Stanyl products and helps customers to achieve a higher performance in their applications. It supports lead-free soldering and is suitable for even the most demanding surface mount technology applications in electronics.

Another innovation is Arnitel XG, a cable insulation material to replace PVC. Arnitel XG is a halogen free flame retardant co-polyester that contains no brominated flame retardants, no PVC or plasticizers. The product has been successfully commercialized for PVC replacement meeting the stringent safety, reliability and aesthetic requirements for external wiring.

Fredric Petit, Chairman of the DSM Engineering Plastics Sustainability Council says: “At DSM Engineering Plastics, we fully endorse the drive for a more sustainable future and we support our customers’ search for alternative material solutions such as Arnitel XG and Stanyl ForTii. It is for these reasons that we will continue to allocate significant resources to initiate and advance green and sustainable developments.”

Earlier this year, DSM Engineering Plastics announced the introduction of EcoPaXX™, a bio-based, high performance engineering plastic, suitable for many high-tech applications. Approximately 70% of the polymer consists of building blocks derived from renewable resources and EcoPaXX has been shown to be 100 % carbon neutral from cradle to gate.

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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® ForTii™. 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.

Akulon®, Arnite®, Arnitel®, Stanyl®, Stanyl® ForTii™, and Yparex® are registered trademarks of Royal DSM N.V.