More Sources of Carbon Nanotube Compounds

WEB EXCLUSIVE The roster of companies supplying thermoplastic blends with carbon nanotubes is upwards of half a dozen and growing. Nanotubes provide electrical conductivity, mechanical reinforcement, and flame resistance. One of the most recent announcements comes from PolyOne Corp., Cleveland, which is developing nanotube-filled composites. Zyvex Performance Materials, Columbus, Ohio, will provide the carbon-nanotube functionalization necessary for compatibility with certain high-end thermoplastics. Stratek Plastic Ltd., Wallingford, Conn., will provide the Tek-Mix technology for extensional/elongational flow mixing to optimize nanotube dispersion. Meanwhile, Arkema Inc., Philadelphia, has come out with several Graphistrength masterbatches of the company’s own Graphistrength multiwall carbon nanotubes in engineering thermoplastics. The masterbatches, also tradenamed Graphistrength, include 20% nanotubes in PC or nylon 6, 11, or 12, as well as 30% nanotubes in a TP polyester. The latter is a “universal” product compatible with nylons, polyesters, PC, ABS, acetal, acrylic, and fluoropolymers. The concentrates are typically let down to 0.5 to 5% nanotubes in the final compound. Other masterbatches are in development. (866) 765-9663 * www.polyone.com (877) 469-9838 * www.zyvexpro.com (203) 284-3662 * www.stratek-plastics.com (800) 225-7788 * www.arkema.com