Produced using LyondellBasell's Hostalen ACP technology, the new Petrothene KR52828E grade is a multimodal high density polyethylene (HDPE) used in medium voltage jacketing for outdoor power cables. The company says customer trials show that the new product provides very good processability versus standard HDPE materials, which is of key importance when applying jacketing to cables. In addition, HDPE resins produced with LyondellBasell's ACP technology have demonstrated improved physical properties in numerous long term outdoor applications, including pressure pipe and wire & cable, according to the company.

The new Lupolen GX 4087 is a low density polyethylene (LDPE) resin under development for use in medium voltage cables that distribute electrical power from generating plants and substations to transformers. A key requirement is dielectric strength, which is the maximum voltage a material can withstand without failure of insulation properties. Based on IEC 60243 standard tests, the grade provide very good insulation performance when compared with other competitive LDPE grades, says LyondellBasell.

Increased cell phone use or overall increased wireless communication creates strong demand for highly engineered coaxial cables used in high frequency transmission lines. An important polymer requirement is the dissipation factor, which is a measure of signal loss. LyondellBasell's Alathon and Petrothene resins are used by customers in foamed cable insulation applications to reduce dissipation.

As the most widely used LDPE resin for high-frequency insulated coaxial cables, Petrothene NA217080 offers high melt strength, optimum melt elasticity and good electrical properties. Alathon M5370WC HDPE is used by customers in blends with Petrothene NA217080 to achieve a good balance of electrical, physical and flow properties. With the new Alathon grade, producers have the potential to achieve even further reductions in signal transmission loss, says LyondellBasell.