Lanxess announced that it is offering the next generation of Low Free (LF) isocyanate urethane prepolymers that can be formulated into resins for 3D printing (additive manufacturing). In order to create such resins, Lanxess works together with 3D printing companies. Based on Adiprene LF pPDI (para-phenylene diisocyanate) prepolymers, these resins are easy to process and safe for industrial manufacturers as well as for the casual home, office or retail user, said the company.

According to Covestro, the manufacture of vehicle parts made of composite materials instead of steel is a lightweight and therefore sustainable solution that reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This also applies to commercial vehicles such as trucks, which are used heavily on a daily basis. Carbon Truck & Trailer GmbH (CarbonTT) designs truck chassis from carbon fibre-reinforced composites and has the know-how and various IP rights to manufacture and assemble them.

At K 2019, Wittmann Battenfeld exhibited its injection moulding technologies, processes and applications under the motto “Enjoy Innovation”. Two of the applications presented by the Austrian machine manufacturer from Kottingbrunn were on the subject of elastomer processing. One of the application technology focal points at K 2019 was silicone injection moulding. A TPE application was also on display.

Actega DS has introduced a new, patented generation of TPE dispersions at K 2019 for a wide range of coating solutions for packaging materials and substrates. The company said that the technology makes it possible to combine various specific features in a single dispersion. Accordingly, maximum customer benefits are offered through individualized application solutions.

Plymouth Foam has launched a new line of dog toys under its Airehide brand which uses BASF’s Infinergy material. Infinergy is an expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU) and is used in a variety of applications. According to BASF, the elastic particle foam can be used anywhere, where a combination of low weight, good mechanical properties, and long-term durability is needed.

Under the brand name reSound OM PolyOne has introduced TPE formulations for overmoulding processes. The grades utilise between 40 and 50 % bio-renewable content derived from sugarcane, and offer hardness levels and performance comparable to standard TPEs, PolyOne said.

Materialise has extended its 3D printing materials offering with the new Ultrasint TPU 01 from BASF. The company announced on 10 September 2019 that it is the first to make the new material available through its online platforms Materialise OnSite and i.materalise, and through its offline prototyping and manufacturing services.

The VisionVenture camper, co-created by BASF and Hymer, was a main attraction point at the BASF stand at K 2019. The vehicle celebrated its world premiere at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, Germany. More than 20 plastics and a new painting technology of BASF are used in the vehicle.

Polyketones have an elevated melting point (220 – 255 °C) and are often used for high-performance applications in the automotive industry and technical components in mechanical engineering. In addition to good resistance to chemicals and hydrolysis, polyketones are characterised by their high wear resistance. Hexpol TPE has succeeded in developing TPE materials for adhesion to polyketone substrates. They do not require the use of a primer or adhesive, which makes the production process more economical, faster and simpler.

Eos announced the launch of Eos TPU 1301. The company, one of the leading technology suppliers in the field of industrial 3D printing of polymers and metals, said that this material is a big step towards 3D printing mass production.