Materials maker Polyplastics Co. Ltd. (S26207) is launching a new grade of polyetherketone (PEK) resin at NPE2024.
New Sarpek-brand PEK is an advanced material for metal replacement and applications needing the highest heat resistance of any injection moldable resin without requiring post-curing, officials with Tokyo-based Polyplastics said in a news release.
They added that the new material is an advancement over polyetheretherketone (PEEK) that delivers a high crystallization rate and high molding efficiency. Sarpek also features higher heat resistance than PEEK, with durability and superior strength to replace metals in harsh environments. Sarpek PEK is available in unreinforced grades along with 30 percent glass-filled and 30 percent carbon fiber-filled grades.
Polyplastics also will showcase Durafide-brand polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), the firm's latest offering for electric vehicles. Officials said the material delivers outstanding heat resistance and exceptional thermal and electric insulation properties for busbars, module covers, and battery systems in electric and hybrid vehicles.
Polyplastics has expanded Laperos-brand liquid crystal polymer (LCP) sales to EMEA and the Americas, officials said, while making investments in capacity to respond to market growth.
In sustainable products, Polyplastics is offering Plastron-brand LFT, a long cellulose fiber-reinforced polypropylene resin aimed at automotive uses such as door module carriers, center consoles and armrest cores. Plastron LFT is eco-friendly, officials said, and is made of regenerated cellulose fibers. The fibers provide weight reduction plus mechanical strength, enabling manufacturers to reduce their carbon footprint and meet sustainability demands.
In another sustainable product from Polyplastics, Duranex-brand PBT has been selected for battery packs made by electric motorcycle maker Selex Motors of Vietnam. Polyplastics officials said battery covers play a crucial role in EVs by providing safety and maintaining integrity of the battery pack. The covers are also important for overall functionality and attractiveness of electric two-wheelers, they added.
Polyplastics operates two plants in China and plants in Japan, Malaysia and Taiwan, as well as an office and testing lab in Farmington Hills, Mich. The business also operates two plants in Germany — one making specialty polymers and one making specialty chemicals.