Flexible, Conductive Urethanes Now Available

Dayville, CT (May 2001) - Selectively Enhanced Polymers represent the latest in materials technology whereby selected properties are improved without detrimental trade-offs in other key properties. Foster now offers conductive urethanes to its expanding family of SEP compounds. These urethane compounds combine static dissipation properties with the unique flexibility and mechanical properties of urethanes.

Thermoplastics are inherently nonconductive and must be modified to dissipate static charges that can damage critical electronics. Traditionally, increased electrical dissipation has been accomplished through internally compounded additives, such as carbon. Yet these fillers adversely affect toughness, elongation and other key mechanical properties of urethane components. External static dissipation systems diminish with time and use. Foster uses a blend of highly structured carbon additives and advanced compounding techniques to enhance electrical dissipation without adversely affecting other urethane properties.

According to Foster president Larry Acquarulo, "Static charges can be an engineer's worst nightmare since they jeopardize sensitive electrical components. Conduct materials give these charges a path to dissipate without destroying the product. Yet the sacrifice in toughness and flexibility from traditional carbon filled polymers is unacceptable for belts, tubing, and other flexible components. Our SEP conductive urethanes are designed specifically for these applications with surface resistivities in the range of 105 ohms/square while maintaining as much as 300%+ elongation."

This unique combination of properties allows for maximum consolidation of components, which increases design flexibility and reduces overall product costs. Foster's SEP conductive urethanes are processible using standard extrusion, molding and other manufacturing methods. Applications include tubing, film, sheet, injection molded components and more.

Conductive urethanes represent the latest edition to Foster's emerging family of conductive materials designed to provide static dissipation without substantial attrition in toughness and elongation. This precision alteration technology is part of the company's development of an entire line of selectively enhanced polymers, marketed as SEP compounds.

Foster Corporation and Foster West Corporation are the global market leaders in design, development and delivery of specialty thermoplastic solutions for medical, electronic and other niche industrial markets. The company's Applied Polymer Development group provides polymeric material, process and design contract development engineering services for these target markets. For more information, please call 860.774.3964.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dan Lazas,610.458.2038