January 27, 2009 -- Kraton Polymers LLC has introduced a new family of engineered polymers designed to meet the market's demand for a green alternative to flexible PVC in wire and cable, hoses and sporting goods.
Kraton A1535 is the first polymer in the company's "Advantaged," or Kraton A series, to debut for global commercialization later this year. The product family is billed as halogen-free, recyclable and FDA approved for direct food contact applications. The company says the polymers offer an expansion of opportunities for TPE [thermoplastic elastomer] compounds in a variety of soft grip and other overmold applications for markets that range from personal care to high tech electronics.
"We are very excited to have this new family of polymers in our portfolio and we are confident that our new innovative technology addresses the market's need for a high performance environmentally friendly polymer," comments Michael Oberkirch, global VP of advanced materials for Kraton Polymers. "Our Kraton A polymers perform very well with PC, ABS, nylon and other engineered polymers allowing for excellent overmold adhesion."
Kraton A1535 can also be easily compounded with TPU materials to reduce hardness and enhance flexibility, says the company. According to the company, the new polymer's array of properties includes excellent dimensional stability, lower viscosity allowing for easy processability when compared to conventional grades, and weatherability.
On the Web:
www.kraton.com
Let your voice be heard! Network with other industry professionals! Join INTERCONNECTION WORLD, the social networking and community Web site for readers of Cabling Installation & Maintenance.
