Perspectives
LNP Elcres CXL PC copolymers, developed for demanding applications in the electronics, infrastructure, and mobility industries, have been introduced by SABIC. Under harsh circumstances, these copolymers provide exceptional mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and durability. The goal of SABIC’s cutting-edge materials is to meet the rising need for robust but lightweight components.
The new LNP ELCRES CXL polycarbonate (PC) copolymer resins from SABIC, a world leader in the chemical sector, have remarkable chemical resistance. Customers in the electronics, infrastructure, industrial, and mobility sectors may benefit greatly from these speciality materials as they deal with the growing exposure to harsh chemicals that can lead to premature failure and environmental stress cracking. LNP ELCRES CXL copolymer resins have superior weatherability and low-temperature impact resistance, which can improve part longevity and dependability in addition to offering more chemical resistance than conventional materials.
According to Maureen MacDonald-Stein, head of Portfolio Strategy and Marketing at SABIC Polymers, Specialities unit, “a number of trends are contributing to greater chemical exposure for plastic parts.” Following the epidemic, customers’ worries about cleanliness have remained elevated, leading them to regularly cleanse surfaces ranging from EV chargers to smartphone screens. handles. Skin oils, lotions, and other personal care items come into frequent touch with electronics due to the increasing popularity of wearables and the continuous usage of smartphones. Even when chemicals grow more aggressive and exposure increases, our new LNP ELCRES CXL materials help retain part performance and aesthetics.
PC Copolymers with Chemical Resistance for a Variety of Industries
Compared to conventional amorphous materials such as polycarbonate (PC) resins and acrylonitrile butadiene-styrene (ABS) blends, the new LNP ELCRES CXL copolymer resins can provide exceptional chemical resistance. LNP ELCRES CXL copolymer resins are extremely resistant to a variety of chemicals present in the mobility, according to internal tests conducted by SABIC. fields of electronics, infrastructure, and industry. Tests were conducted on representative mobility and infrastructure chemicals. These consist of caustic soda (5% solution), petrol, antifreeze, and several other related substances.
Tar remover, brake fluid, and several more chemicals were tested against common chemical exposures for industrial purposes. LNP ELCRES CXL copolymer resins can provide enhanced chemical resistance to the ingredients in hand lotions, sunscreens, insect repellents, cleaning solutions, and hand sanitisers in situations where consumers interface with mobility, industrial, and infrastructural systems.
A variety of materials are available in the new SABIC CXL portfolio, such as glass-reinforced alternatives, opaque and transparent non-flame retardant (FR) grades, and opaque, thin-wall FR grades. Additionally, these materials provide value-added characteristics such narrow gauges of non-brominated/non-chlorinated FR, high flow for simple processing, low temperature ductility (down to -60oC), and good colourability to satisfy aesthetic standards. Under UL 746°C, they may satisfy the water immersion (f1 rating) and ultraviolet (UV) standards for outdoor usability.
SABIC provides ISCC PLUS certified bio-renewable versions of the new materials under the LNP ELCRIN CXL brand to assist pave the way towards carbon neutrality. In contrast to conventional feedstocks, they employ bio-based alternative feedstocks that have a less carbon footprint. These bio-based grades can provide the same performance as their conventional equivalents while lowering carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. These grades are the latest additions to the company’s TRUCIRCLE program, which offers goods and services designed to assist businesses globally in achieving their sustainability objectives.
According to Scott Fisher, general manager, Technology, SABIC Polymers, Specialities business, “Our LNP ELCRES CXL copolymer resins can help manufacturers and brands keep pace with the increasing risks of performance and aesthetic degradation posed by more widespread use of chemicals.” “Our in-house copolymer technology meets the issue of shielding applications from these chemicals’ damaging effects and loss of value. The LNP ELCRES CXL materials support sustainability, brand reputation, and customer happiness by assisting in extending the usable life of components.