Блог

  • Top 5 Plastics Materials Trends for 2018

    Top 5 Plastics Materials Trends for 2018

    According to Plastics News, total demand for plastics products is on track to expand by 3.5 percent in 2018. But what plastics trends will be feeding that growth? Below we have compiled a list of current trending plastic applications, some you’ve read about here in the Knowledge Center. But we’ll start with perhaps a surprising market…

    Fashion

    Chanel launches PVC plastic fashion for 2018 - read more plastics trends in the Prospector Knowledge Center.
    SOURCE: Chanel

    Designers like Chanel, Jimmy Choo, Phillip Lim, and Calvin Klein are using plastic polymers such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in their designs, as reported by Harper’s Bazaar, W Magazine, Allure, Vogue, and Pinterest. Spring/summer 2018 collections include plastic items such as hats, thigh-high boots, jewelry, and handbags.2,3,4

     

     

     

     

    Sustainability

    This plastics trend continues to grow as more and more consumers and governments demand accountability in plastic manufacturing. Part of this process also includes increased use of bioplastics, such as those derived from soybeans, corn, flax, and other materials.5Coherent Market Insights reports that the global green packaging market will reach USD $238 billion by 2025.6 Related articles:

    Automotive

    The use of plastic materials in innovative automotive design is on the rise, as manufacturers strive to optimize performance and fuel economy, while reducing emissions. We will see innovations in plastic vehicle interiors such as smart surfaces and 3D-printed tooling, as well as external autonomous driving sensors. Related articles:

    Medical

    MTD's micro molded plastic drug delivery straws - read about plastics trends like this in the Prospector Knowledge Center.
    SOURCE: MTD Micro Molding

    As medical technology advances, so does the use of plastics in the medical field. Doctors use micro injection molded bioabsorbable products such as stents, staples, and polymer drug-eluting implants.7 Polymers are also being used as the foundation for “scaffolds” to guide the regrowth of new tissue. Related articles:

     

     

    Composites

    Wind farm with turbines made with plastic composites - find more plastics trends in the Prospector Knowledge Center.Already at work in the marketplace, designers and engineers continue to innovate plastic composite applications, such as fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP), which includes glass, carbon, aramid, and other fibers. The Freedonia Group reports growth for these materials in the construction, wind energy, and aerospace markets.8 Related articles:

    What trends are you seeing in your work in the plastics industry? Is there anything you’d like to hear more about in a future article? Share in your thoughts with a comment below!

    [su_button url=»https://knowledge.ulprospector.com/7629/pe-2018-plastics-trends/?utm_source=strongmail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=New+Trend+Tuesday+eNewsletter» target=»blank» size=»5″]A source[/su_button]

  • UPCOMING WEBINAR: Optimizing Performance and Achieving Customer Satisfaction from Your ABS Resin

    UPCOMING WEBINAR: Optimizing Performance and Achieving Customer Satisfaction from Your ABS Resin

    Presented by Trinseo

    Join us live Tuesday, January 23, 2018 9:00AM ET (New York)

    Presented by Trinseo, join our colleague Mark Vreys, technical services leader and resident- expert on acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) materials based in Terneuzen, The Netherlands, as he provides information allowing manufacturers of extrusion and injection molding applications to select the most suitable ABS materials for optimum production, product performance and cost efficiency. He will discuss the two methods of producing ABS – a traditional emulsion method and the alternative mass polymerization process – comparing the two and discussing the benefits and applications of each. Included will be a discussion of the propriety mass polymerization process used by Trinseo for MAGNUM™ ABS which is most appropriate for certain applications. ABS finds its way into furniture, automotive, buses, trucks, recreational and utility vehicles, bath tub liners, advertisement boards, luggage and doors. For optimum product performance and cost efficiency, the material requires specific performance properties, e.g., purity, low levels of volatiles, thermal stability, colorability, UV absorbers, optical brighteners, and the best way to obtain these attributes will be discussed.

    This webinar is sponsored by Trinseo, provider of specialty engineered performance plastics solutions to various industries including Consumer Electronics, Medical Devices and Automotive.

    Register Now!

    [su_button url=»https://knowledge.ulprospector.com/7564/webinar-pe-optimizing-performance-achieving-customer-satisfaction-abs-resin/?ul_ce=2065&st=34&ul_piid=a0B0b00000Lrgwz» target=»blank» size=»5″]A source[/su_button]

  • The 7th ICIS World Polyolefins Conference

    The 7th ICIS World Polyolefins Conference

    The changing picture of new capacities: Assessing the global impact

    25 — 26 April 2018 // Vienna Marriott Hotel // Vienna, Austria

    The changing picture of new capacities: Assessing the global impact

    How is new polyolefin capacity going to affect your business strategy? What impact will the circular economy have on polyolefin supply and demand? Where are the key opportunities to capitalise on within the end markets?

    With new capacities coming online across the globe and shifts in supply and demand dynamics, it’s vital that polyolefin producers, plastics convertors, traders, distributors and the rest of the value chain keep informed of the latest developments in Europe, the USA, Asia and the Middle East. With an agenda covering these market perspectives as well as opportunities within the automotive and packaging sectors and a post-conference forum focused on recycling and the circular economy, the 2018 ICIS event will continue to be the meeting point for the international polyolefin industry.

  • Seeking A “Self-Spreading” Coating On Surface A That Stops At Surface B

    Seeking A “Self-Spreading” Coating On Surface A That Stops At Surface B

    Background

    The SpecialChem client is known as a world leader in the consumer products market. This company’s goal is to help its customers to apply its coating products in a faster and easier way, as the current application process is perceived as long and tedious. The company is pursuing a radical innovation that could change the market benchmarks.

    The company has already tried different options that resulted in non-satisfactory solutions (too long or too complex application use of unsafe product…). They would therefore value external proposals that are beyond their current technological landscape.

    The company is ready to consider a wide spectrum of proposals in terms of maturity (from early Technology Concepts to ready-to-use solutions) and in terms of collaboration format (R&D partnership, technology licensing, technology acquisition, direct material purchase…).

    [su_button url=»https://polymer-additives.specialchem.com/technology-scouting/self-spreading-coating?lr=ppa1801418&li=70111412&utm_source=NL&utm_medium=EML&utm_campaign=ppa1801418&m_i=vHKtQxKIM6eRIrJSI_u3aK3p%2Bz81y8ce%2BX23FMytZtqtIYGgrdUfNZppzmiMtGMdDLK17UWmbuVIefM__fFznw2cflDCvJ» target=»blank» size=»5″]A source[/su_button]

    Detailed Solution Description

    The surface to coat (A) has the following characteristics:

    • It is flat or curved (radius of curvature can vary from 4 mm to 21 mm)
    • It is relatively even at macroscopic scale.
    • Area to coat: some cm²
    • Approximate total surface energy:  34 mJ.m(-2)
    • Approximate Hansen Solubility Parameters: D = 17.7 ± 0.5 / P = 20.9 ±0.3 / H = 18.6 ± 0.6

    The delineating adjacent surface (B) not to coat has the following characteristics:

    • It is physically in the extension of A, but of different chemical nature
    • It is relatively even at macroscopic scale.
    • Approximate total surface energy : 57 mJ.m(-2)
    • Approximate Hansen Solubility Parameters : D = 17 / P = 8 / H = 8

    The coating material should comply with the following characteristics:

    • It should be self-spreading on surface A
    • It should “self-stop” when reaching surface B (autonomously cease spreading, ideally with no to low mechanical constraint applied)
    • Total application time before usage must be under 60 seconds
    • Adhesion time on A during usage should be at least 24 h
    • Different curing methods could be considered
    • Maximum thickness of the coating should be about 0.5mm
    • Must be applicable at room temperature
    • The coating should be removable (i.e. cleaned-off) on demand
    • It is sold today in liquid form, but other forms could be considered
    • It must be colorable and even allow a large range of colors
    • Must not damage the surface in any way, neither chemically nor physically
    • Application method today is mostly by roller or brush, but the company is ready to consider any kind of application methods
    • The resulting surface should be smooth and uniform
    • It should ideally enable a large range of optical reflectance.

    The chemical composition of the coating should not be harmful at it is in direct human exposure during application and usage. Skin contact should be possible.

    Possible Routes To Investigate

    • New coating of a new chemical composition, that plays on compatibility/ incompatibility with surfaces A and B
    • New application methods (machine, spray, specific applicators…)
    • Fast and easy surface preparation of A (physical or chemical)

    Solution that are not of interest

    • Solutions that require long surface preparation
    • Solutions that are chemically unsafe to human exposure

    Other Comments / Important Considerations

    Economical considerations will enter into play at a later stage. The coating solution should be below 70 EUR / kg (approx. 37 USD / lb). In case of technical and commercial success, large volumes could be expected as the SpecialChem Client is able to quickly market globally.

    Type of Outcome expected

    The SpecialChem Client is open to a wide spectrum of proposals’ maturity.

    • From a Technology Concept of Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2 on the NASA TRL scale (Basic principles are observed. Applications are speculative, and there may be no proof or detailed analysis to support the assumptions. Examples are limited to analytic studies)

    To

    • An Actual System Proven through Successful Usage of TRL 9 (Actual application of the technology in its final form and conditions. Technology is commercially available)

    In case you would like to submit a proposal, please indicate the TRL of your solution:

    TRL# Technology Readiness Level Description
    1 Basic principles Lowest level of technology readiness. Scientific research begins to be translated into applied research and development (R&D). Examples might include paper studies of a technology’s basic properties.
    2 Technology concept Basic principles are observed. Applications are speculative, and there may be no proof or detailed analysis to support the assumptions. Examples are limited to analytic studies.
    3 Proof of concept Active R&D is initiated. This includes analytical studies and laboratory studies to physically validate the analytical predictions of separate elements of the technology. Examples include components that are not yet integrated or representative.
    4 Validation in laboratory environment Basic technological components are integrated to establish that they will work together. Examples include integration of “ad hoc” hardware in the laboratory.
    5 Validation in relevant environment The basic technological components are integrated with reasonably realistic supporting elements so they can be tested in a simulated environment. Examples include laboratory integration of components.
    6 Prototype demonstration in a relevant environment Representative model or prototype system, which is well beyond that of TRL 5, is tested in a relevant environment. Represents a major step up in a technology’s demonstrated readiness. Examples include testing a prototype in a laboratory environment or in a simulated operational environment.
    7 System prototype demonstration in an operational environment Prototype near or at planned operational system. Represents a major step up from TRL 6 by requiring demonstration of an actual system prototype in an operational environment.
    8 Actual system completed and qualified through test and demonstration Technology has been proven to work in its final form and under expected conditions. In almost all cases, this TRL represents the end of true system development. Examples include developmental test and evaluation (DT&E) of the system in its intended system to determine if it meets design specifications.
    9 Actual system proven through successful usage Actual application of the technology in its final form and conditions. Technology is commercially available.
  • The 7th ICIS World Polyolefins Conference

    The 7th ICIS World Polyolefins Conference

    The changing picture of new capacities: Assessing the global impact

    25 — 26 April 2018, Vienna // Austria

    The changing picture of new capacities: Assessing the global impact

    How is new polyolefin capacity going to affect your business strategy? What impact will the circular economy have on polyolefin supply and demand? Where are the key opportunities to capitalise on within the end markets?

    With new capacities coming online across the globe and shifts in supply and demand dynamics, it’s vital that polyolefin producers, plastics convertors, traders, distributors and the rest of the value chain keep informed of the latest developments in Europe, the USA, Asia and the Middle East. With an agenda covering these market perspectives as well as opportunities within the automotive and packaging sectors and a post-conference forum focused on recycling and the circular economy, the 2018 ICIS event will continue to be the meeting point for the international polyolefin industry.

  • NHFPC Expands Usage Limit of ADDIVANT™’s Antioxidant in Polyethylene

    NHFPC Expands Usage Limit of ADDIVANT™’s Antioxidant in Polyethylene

    Addivant™ has announced that China’s National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC) has expanded the usage limit for its nonylphenol‐free stabilizer, WESTON® 705, in polyethylene from 1500ppm to 2000ppm.

    WESTON® 705 — Stabilizes Polyethylene

    “This increase confirms the safety profile of WESTON® 705 and comes at an opportune time,” said John Steitz, Addivant’s CEO. “China has just started to enforce its new food‐contact law, GB9685‐2016, which puts a 10ppb migration limit on nonylphenol in food‐contact materials. With this extension, resin manufacturers can further increase the use of WESTON® 705, allowing them to stabilize polyethylene for the most demanding process conditions while avoiding gel formation and additive blooming in flexible film.”

    Food‐contact Approved Antioxidant

    Already approved for use in more than 180 countries for food‐contact packaging, WESTON® 705 is the only nonylphenol‐free liquid phosphite antioxidant alternative with food‐contact approvals in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and China.

    This enables resin producers and packaging manufacturers to employ a single, global solution for Consumer Packaged Goods for customers looking to stay ahead of the regulatory curve. The result of more than seven years of research and investment, WESTON® 705 is the most thoroughly tested new plastic antioxidant on the market today.

    [su_button url=»https://polymer-additives.specialchem.com/news/product-news/antioxidant-food-contact-approval-nhfpc-000212742?lr=ppa1712416&li=70111412&utm_source=NL&utm_medium=EML&utm_campaign=ppa1712416&m_i=bj_bSAtoTnxE1bTSa0ydEYTytLwm32BoE%2BlCJ9yFgNhlwEYNoh09sxyq5EuFr7O%2BsqmpzDxGFUy_BoUU1kNccG5QstXIbt» target=»blank» size=»5″]A source[/su_button]

     

  • BASF Light Stabilizers for Synthetic Fibers

    BASF Light Stabilizers for Synthetic Fibers

    Today, more than half of the 80 million metric tons of fibers consumed per annum are synthetic. Synthetic fibers are largely used in technical textiles and fabrics to meet all kind of mechanical, aesthetic and durability requirements.

    Synthetic fibers continue their rapid growth in a variety of end use applications such as nonwoven for consumer goods, construction materials, textiles for automotive as well as mono-filaments for artificial grass used in sport fields or landscaping.
    Polypropylene is a very important material used in BCF (bulk continuous fiber) processing, nonwoven fibers spinning or the associated weaved tapes. Polyethylene and Polyamide mono-filaments as well as polyester are other important polymers for technical synthetic fibers.

    Technical man-made fibers, initially developed and produced in Western countries to compensate for the declining textile clothing activities, are now expanding worldwide fueled by the demand of the rising middle-class population.

    UV and Light stabilizers to protect synthetic fibers from degradation

    Synthetic fibers are subject to thermo- and photooxidative degradation during polymer processing, spinning and later service life. Fibers used in applications such as artificial turf, barrier membranes or carpets and flooring have to withstand very harsh climate conditions, including prolonged exposure to UV light and environmental pollution or contaminants. Very demanding long-term durability is essential in some end applications, such as construction and automotive.

    Irganox® antioxidants, Chimassorb® and Tinuvin® Light stabilizers protect the fiber from adverse thermal and UV aging such as discoloration and degradation.

    Which solutions can BASF offer to answer the synthetic fibers industry requirements?

     

    Green Arrow

    BASF solutions for fibers used in construction materials:

    Fibers are used in architectural barrier membranes including geotextiles, roof felts used under roof tiles and house-wrap surroundings for insulation. Both can be laminated onto microporous films for breathability.

    See BASF solutions suitable for fibers used in construction:

    Applications Fibers types BASF solutions
    • Geotextiles
    • Shading nets
    • Roof felts
    • Housewraps
    • Woven and nonwoven polyolefins
    • Polyester
    • Occasionally Polyvinylchloride (PVC)
    		 For Polypropylene fibers:

    For Polyamide fibers:
    • Decorative shading nets
    • Awnings
    • Tents
    		 Acrylic or polyester fibers For Polyester fibers:

    Focusing on the safety aspect of construction materials, BASF supplies flame retardants that help meeting regulations for construction materials as well as light-stability for insulation membranes.

    Green Arrow

    BASF light stabilizers for the nonwoven sector:

    The nonwoven sector covers a very wide variety of applications including hygiene, air filtration, construction and geotextiles. Polypropylene is the polymer used in large majority of applications.

    Here are BASF additives recommended for the nonwoven sector:

    Applications & Requirements BASF solutions Products Benefits
    Construction:
    Geotextiles, insulation or membranes,
    composites with films or other textiles    		 Chimassorb® 2020
    Flamestab® NOR® 116
    • Processing stability
    • Spinning stability
    • Outstanding UV resistance
    • Flame Retardancy
    Agriculture:
    Small tunnels, protective layers of wraps
    for plants and trees, curtains and composite structures    		 Chimassorb® 2020
    Tinuvin® XT 200
    • Superior UV
    • Resistance to other HALS
    • Tinuvin® XT 200 is complementary or alternatively used in presence of acidic contaminants coming from crop treatments

    Highlight: For Flame Retardancy requirements, Flamestab® NOR® 116 is the product of choice for composites containing spunbond PP nonwovens, combining unique flame retardancy and UV protection features.

    Arrow

    BASF additives for the artificial turf market:

    BASF is a leading supplier of additives for the artificial turf market with more than 25 years’ experience in artificial turf components.
    Its comprehensive portfolio includes Hindered Amines Light Stabilizers and UV Absorbers for films, tapes and monofilaments of polyethylene, polypropylene and polyamide. 

    In addition, BASF offers Flamestab®, a flame retardant solution for polyolefin thin sections with outstanding UV aging resistance.

    See BASF light stabilizers and UV absorbers for the artificial turf market:

    Applications BASF solutions
    • Landscaping
    • Flooring indoor
    • Outdoor PP
    • Monofilament
    • Tapes
    		 Chimassorb® 2020 
    Uvinul® 4050
    Tinuvin® XT 55 
    Flamestab® NOR® 116
    • Sports and Landscaping Indoor
    • Outdoor PE
    • Monofilament
    • Tapes
    		 Chimassorb® 2020
    Tinuvin® 326 
    Tinuvin® XT 55
    • Sports indoor
    • Outdoor PA
    • Monofilament
    • Tapes
    		 Chimassorb® 2020
    Tinuvin® 234
    Uvinul® 4050

     

    Arrow

    BASF light stabilizers for Automotive fibers:

    Interior trim and other components inside vehicles are subject to some of the harshest climatic conditions on earth, including extreme temperatures, wide fluctuations in Humidity and other atmospheric pollutants, as well as sunlight exposure.

    Here are BASF solutions to solve these issues:

    Applications Fiber type BASF solutions
    • Carpet pile
    • Tires
    • Filters
    • Belts
    • Hoses
    • Airbags
    • Sound insulation material
    		 Polypropylene fiber Chimassorb® 2020 
    Tinuvin® 234
    Flamestab® NOR® 116
    Polyamide fiber Chimassorb® 2020 
    Tinuvin® 234
    Uvinul® 4050
    Polyester fiber Tinuvin® 1600
    Tinuvin® 234
    Tinuvin® 1577
    Arrow

    BASF solutions for Carpet and upholstery:

    Resistance against light degradation affecting mechanical integrity and aesthetic is often required. As safety regulations become more stringent, effects such as flame retardancy is also more frequently required in an increasing number of applications, in public areas or buildings as well as individual homes.

    Find below BASF solutions for household applications:

    Applications Fiber type BASF solutions
    Carpet face yarns and soft furnishings Polypropylene fiber Chimassorb® 2020 
    Tinuvin® 234 
    Flamestab® NOR® 116
    Carpet face yarns Polyamide fiber Chimassorb® 2020 
    Tinuvin® 234 
    Uvinul® 4050
    Upholstery and other soft furnishings Polyester fiber Tinuvin® 1600 
    Tinuvin® 234 
    Tinuvin® 1577

    Let’s wrap up this review of BASF Plastic Additives solutions for fibers in a selection of important applications:

    Application Artificial turf Technical non-woven Non-woven for hygiene Tapes for FIBC Construction nets
    Artificial turf Technical Non-Woven Non-Woven for hygenic Tapes for FIBC Tapes for FIBC
    Substrate PE, PP PP PP PP, HDPE PE, PP
    Standard Offerings HMW HALS HMW HALS Peroxides Tinuvin® 770/791/783 HMW HALS
    Differentiated Product Tinuvin® XT 55 Chimassorb® 2020 Irgatec® CR 76IC Chimassorb® 2020 /Uvinul® 4050 Flamestab® NOR® 116
    Benefits High performance novel HMW HALS providing superior light stabilityand thermal stabilitywith improved Water Carry Over performance High performance novel HMW HALS providing superior light stabilityand thermal stabilitywith improved processing characteristics Polymer modifier enables economic production of polypropylene nonwoven with outstanding barrier and mechanical properties High performance HALS that fulfils industry norms and provides the processing advantages (less melt fracture), as well as food contact compliance Non halogenated flame retardant provides flame retardant efficacy as well as UV and thermal stability to polyolefin fibers and thin films

    [su_button url=»http://www2.specialchem.com/optiext/optiextension.dll?ID=Pnkqy%2B7A0grN8HWgITFmSetkoVJ36AoPZj2Pr4IxuUBPIDpzXulINhgzkD%2B8wA7lcX%2B1PabU6ottf8LPb8GRWsNrCXe2PT» target=»blank» size=»5″]A source[/su_button]

  • ICIS Training

    ICIS Training

    Helping you navigate the petrochemical, polymer and surfactant markets

    ICIS has developed a series of training courses, to provide industry players with the information and understanding they need to navigate global chemical markets with confidence.

    Designed and led by ICIS experts, with the support of prestigious market leaders, these courses offer fundamental insights into the workings of key industries.

    We provide training in the following areas:

    Petrochemicals Training

    Our petrochemicals training series comprises of 3 courses, catering to the needs of both new entrants to the market, and participants looking to enhance their understanding of this complex industry. Exploring supply chain relationships, feedstocks, pricing, and the impact of recent developments, ICIS training offers essential insights into global petrochemicals.

    Polymers Training

    A two-day interactive course, The Fundamentals of Polymers is designed to give delegates a comprehensive understanding of both the commercial and technical aspects of polymers. As well as covering the basics, the course explores the impact of recent developments on the polymers industry, and how it affects your business.

    Surfactants Training

    The Surfactant Business Essentials provides key insights into this fast-evolving industry, looking at the types of surfactants, the value chain, price drivers and supply chain relationships. This is a non-technical course focused on the business basics, to help you understand how global surfactants markets function.

    Base Oils Training

    Attend our base oils training course series to get a better understanding of different base oils processing technologies, how products are produced and used, and what lies ahead for the global oil, refined products and base oils markets. View our training course series for base oils below: read more >>

    Specialist Training

    Our speciality training courses offer deeper insights into the chemical, energy and fertilizer markets, focusing on key principles and the skills needed to navigate them successfully. From hedging and channel management to advanced purchasing skills, ICIS training enables delegates to make better decisions, with a clear understanding of the fundamentals driving the industry.

    Overview

    How can you benefit from this course?

    Recent turbulence in global petrochemicals has demonstrated the sensitivity of key markets to factors such as crude prices and changing sentiment. This volatility has reaffirmed the importance of having a clear grasp of the value stream, your costs, and the factors influencing prices, to make calculated purchasing decisions in this sector.

    This advanced one and a half day course is designed to build upon your existing purchasing skills and understanding, equipping you with the analytical tools and techniques you need to act confidently in the volatile petrochemicals markets.

    In-House Training

    ICIS works alongside our clients to create bespoke training courses that mould our expertise and your specific needs. We’ll pinpoint the current expertise of your employees, areas for improvement, and your business goals, and develop a training course that will bring tangible benefits to your business.

    Our custom training courses are delivered as interactive workshops, focusing on the products, concepts and issues that are most relevant and beneficial to you.

    • Save money on transportation and accommodation, with training at a convenient location
    • Flexibility — you determine the length and duration of the sessions
    • Interactive workshops with hands-on exercises, to reinforce key skills, techniques and concepts
    • Take-away the course materials, presentations and background information for future reference

    To enquire about in-house training for this course please click here and a member of our team will get back to you.

     

  • Seeking A System To Manufacture An Air And Vapor Permeable And Moisture Repellent Membrane

    Seeking A System To Manufacture An Air And Vapor Permeable And Moisture Repellent Membrane

    Background

    House wrap sales in North America are projected to exceed $3 billion by 2022. Legislation of new and more stringent building energy codes, along with increasingly dramatic climate situations are driving the market. The function of a house wrap is to avoid the intrusion of water (or liquid, dirt) into a structure, and to promote the respiration of vapor and transmission of air (or gas) from a structure (Figure 1).

    Breathable membrane

    Figure-1

    There are two general types of membranes currently used in the building industry:

    • Vapor barriers or vapor retarders exhibit a degree of permeability that allows the building to “breathe”, are usually applied in the building interior, for example, on walls and floors. These membranes need to combine high mechanical strength and low weight with ease of installation
    • Underslating breathable membranes are usually applied to exterior surfaces, allowing vaporization of residual moisture in the insulation material, on which they can be laminated.

    By adding durable “breathable moisture repellent” functionality to the substrate, preferably in a one-step process, the resulting membrane should have the same or superior mechanical properties and weight (preferably in the range of 100 grams per square meter) with additional hydrophobicity and vapor transmission functionality. An efficient manufacturing process would provide a valuable asset in the industry.
    Adding further functionality such as infrared reflectivity, heat insulation or acoustic performance, liquid transport, energy storage and smart connectivity (for instance including sensor functions for temperature or humidity) would also be desirable.

    Detailed Solution Description

    The preferred solution would offer at least the following typical breathable membrane performance characteristics:

    • Air Penetration: 0.005 l/s∙m2 (0.001 cfm/ft2) at 75 Pa, when tested in accordance with ASTM E2178. Type I per ASTM E1677.  ≤0.20 l/s∙m2 (0.04 cfm/ft2) at 75 Pa, when tested in accordance with ASTM E2357.
    • Water Vapor Transmission: 19 metric (28 US) perms, when tested in accordance with ASTM E96, Method B.
    • Water Penetration Resistance: Minimum 280 cm when tested in accordance with AATCC Test Method 127.

    The preferred solution would not reduce the tensile properties of the substrate.  Increasing the tensile properties of the substrate is acceptable.

    The preferred solution would retrofit into existing manufacturing operations with little to no alterations to the existing equipment or process.

    The preferred solution would meet workplace safety requirements consistent with OSHA standards.

    Possible Routes To Investigate

    Topical coatings and laminates are commonly used to affect surface functionality to textile substrates. While not preferable, these options are not outside the scope of this request.

    Anticipated Next Steps with Respondents

    • Upon identification, company would seek to create prototypical samples from a variety of substrates to demonstrate the efficacy of the process and determine the physical properties of the prototypical samples.

    Other Comments / Important Considerations

    • Solution would need to be compatible with maintaining a safe working environment for employees and equipment. Solutions would need to be compatible with temperatures associated with melt extrusion processes, and with the other thermoplastics used in manufacturing the products.
    • Upon identification, company would seek to create prototypical samples from a variety of substrates to demonstrate the efficacy of the process and determine the physical properties of the prototypical samples.

    Type of Outcome expected

    • Proven technology ready for commercial implementation

    Company Demographics

    • Industry: Industrial Textiles
    • Annual Revenue: > 500m €
    • Years in Business: 100 Years
    • Headquarters Area: Europe
  • UPCOMING WEBINAR: Hueforia 2019

    UPCOMING WEBINAR: Hueforia 2019

    Presented by RTP Company
    Join us live Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at 11AM EST (New York)

    The colour development team at RTP Company is proud to present Hueforia 2019, a webinar for designers, marketing and brand professionals, engineers, and purchasers interested in the latest colour trends and their impact on target audiences. Join RTP Company as we unveil four new colour collections for 2019, featuring thermoplastic compounds that make your product look and perform well, and appeal to your consumers!

    Presented by Jeremy Cramer, RTP Company Colour Technical Support Specialist, this 40 minute webinar will cover the following topics:

    • Brief introduction to the RTP Company Colour Division
    • How colour impacts market demand
    • How RTP Company can assist with style, differentiation, and consistent performance for your plastic products

    Register now for Hueforia 2019 to learn more about the design flexibility, global manufacturing consistency, and colour development that RTP Company can provide for your thermoplastic applications.

    About the Company

    RTP Company is a global compounder of custom engineered thermoplastics. Our specialty compounds combine multiple properties in a single material, providing design freedom, reduced manufacturing costs, and faster speed-to-market.

    Register Now!

    [su_button url=»https://knowledge.ulprospector.com/7429/webinar-pe-hueforia-2019/?utm_source=strongmail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Targeted+Emailing» target=»blank» size=»5″]A source.[/su_button]