Particle foam combines several polyamide 6 grades

BASF has introduced a particle foam based on a combination of several polyamide 6 grades. The particle foam reportedly excels with a wide range of unique characteristics: high temperature-resistance, outstanding stiffness, and strength as well as an excellent chemical resistance in contact with fuels, oils, and lubricants, for example.

Additionally, the closed-cell foam structure offers exceptional compressive strength, a requirement for the use in crash relevant components that are exposed to high mechanical demands. Molded part densities can be adjusted across a wide range of 150 to 600 g/L. Because of this versatility, lightweight applications are possible as well.

“BASF continues its long tradition of developing particle foams. We started this project in close co-operation with our customer and now we are able to successfully produce various prototypes”, said Daniela Longo-Schedel, research engineer at BASF. “Thanks to the temperature stability and adjustable mechanical characteristics, the particle foam is suitable for a wide range of applications. Furthermore, it can be effortlessly processed on conventional expanded polypropylene (EPP) molding machines as well as with innovative water steam free technologies. We are working closely together with our customers to finalize the product development.”

BASF’s Ultramid grades are molding compounds on the basis of PA 6, PA  66 and various co-polyamides such as PA66/6. The range also includes PA 6/10 and semi-aromatic polyamides. The molding compounds are available unreinforced, reinforced with glass fibers or minerals and also reinforced with long-glass fibers for special applications. Ultramid is noted for its high mechanical strength, stiffness and thermal stability. In addition, Ultramid offers good toughness at low temperatures, favorable sliding friction behavior and can be processed without any problems.