Dayville, CT (December 2001) - Foster Corporation continues its leadership in the field of nanocomposite technology with the introduction of several new SEP nanocomposite compounds with increased mechanical properties. New formulations based on olefin elastomers and nylons, including 6, 11 and 12, offer substantial increases in rigidity and stiffness over the natural polymers while maintaining significant elongation. These formulations will benefit many thin wall applications such as injection molded components, tubing and film.
Traditionally, increases in stiffness has been achieved with fibers or particles made from glass, carbon or minerals, such as mica or talc. Nanocomposites incorporate particles less than one nanometer thick in the base polymer. The extremely high length-to-thickness ratios of these particles is unmatched by traditional reinforcements and thus provides substantial improvement in rigidity with low filler loadings. Due to reduced loadings and proprietary compounding technology for maximum dispersion, reduction in elongation is minimized.
According to Foster president Larry Acquarulo, "Our SEP nanocomposites are ideal for many applications that require enhanced stiffness while maintaining toughness. This expansion of our portfolio to include several nylons and Pebax® formulations will provide even greater design freedom for engineers. The benefits in catheter and other thin wall medical applications are extraordinary, but we have also seen significant advantages for a broad cross-section of applications in other leading markets with these formulations."
These new formulations are part of the company's development focus and leadership in the field of applied nanocomposite technology. More broadly, this precision alteration technology is part of the company's development of an entire line of SEP selectively enhanced polymers.
Foster Corporation is a global market leader in design, development and delivery of specialty thermoplastic solutions for medical, electronic and other niche industrial markets. The company also provides a broad range of material, process and design contract engineering services for these target markets. For more information, please call 860.774.3964.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dan Lazas
610.458.2038