One of the interesting new technologies on display at K 2010
in Düsseldorf, Germany later this year will be a new polymer approach from
DuPont called "Shield".
Shield
technology combines several innovations, including a new polymer backbone,
polymer modifications and a special set of additives to enhance performance.
The exact combination and composition of chemistries are optimized for each
product based on the targeted application.
"This new product is the result of several breakthroughs
from research and development aimed at cost-effectively improving performance
and especially durability to meet automotive market needs," says Bob Lawton,
global technology manager for DuPont Zytel nylon. "The convergence of the
chemistries produced a step change in durability that is amazing. We are
investigating other polymers whose performance also could be greatly enhanced
with DuPont Shield technology."
The first products to emerge with the system is a new family
of nylons that are said to maintain high levels of performance despite exposure
to hot oil, hot air, calcium chloride and other aggressive automotive
chemicals.
The new family launches with four products primarily
targeted at the automotive industry where the drive to take out weight and cost
adds up to improved fuel economy and reduced carbon emissions. Additional
products are planned for later this year.
"In many cases, Zytel
Plus nylon will be able to double the life of thermoplastic components exposed
to hot, chemically aggressive and humid environments," says Rob Palmer,
research and development senior research associate for DuPont Performance Polymers.
"Zytel Plus nylon creates the opportunity to replace even more metal and some
specialty polymers, while simplifying processing."
The new portfolio launches with:
- Zytel Plus 95G35 nylon - This core product targets long-term performance at very high temperatures (up to 210C or even 230C for shorter periods).
- Zytel Plus 95G50 nylon - Additional benefits include better stiffness, creep at high temperatures.
- Zytel Plus 93G35 nylon - Additional benefits include improved weld lines, good performance in burst tests.
- Zytel Plus 90G30 nylon - This grade targets exceptional resistance to hot engine coolant plus excellent properties in contact with water.
Potential automotive applications include: charge air coolers, exhaust mufflers, turbo air ducts, engine mounts, resonators, cylinder head covers, oil pans, EGR coolers, oil modules, thermostats, transmission components - such as front covers - and radiator end tanks where calcium chloride resistance is especially important due to road treatments.
"While targeted initially at the automotive market, we expect broader interest, especially where superior surface appearance, resistance to aging and/or ease of processing is desired," says Karin Weining, global marketing director, industrial, consumer, energy for DuPont Performance Polymers.
Held every three years, the K Fair is the leading international trade show for rubber and plastics.
