CompositesWorld
Issue link: https://cw.epubxp.com/i/517026
CompositesWorld.com 57 RESIN SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY Water-based binder for natural fiber preforms BASF AG (Ludwigshafen, Germany) has launched a new binder, Acrodur Power 2750 X, designed for the production of natural fber preforms for lightweight automotive applications, such as interior car door panels or shelves. A low-emission alternative to formaldehyde-based reactive resins, the new binder is said to provide natural fber composites with high mechanical stability. At the same time, the product ofers thermoplastic processability and, unlike conventional thermoplastic binders based on polypro- pylene, it enables the use of up to 75% natural fbers in light- weight components. BASF also says the use of Acrodur Power 2750 X helps make natural fber components up to 40% lighter than conventional plastic products. Further, says BASF, the water- based binder is a health-compatible alternative to conventional formaldehyde-based reactive resins: Neither during processing nor as part of the fnal product does it release any organic substances. BASF says natural fbers bonded with Acrodur Power 2750 X can be processed using traditional thermoplastic cold- forming methods and combined in a single processing step with complex plastic elements, such as reinforcing ribs or supports. www.basf.automotive.com » RESIN ADDITIVES & MODIFIERS Nano-based toughener Zyvex Technologies (Columbus, OH, US) has launched ZNT-boost, an epoxy-composite toughening system based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for carbon and glass fber composites that reportedly delivers increased toughness without compromising the composite's strength and stifness. Zyvex says that ZNT-boost doesn't force the user to compromise one property to increase another. ZNT-boost reportedly increases the toughness of the composite as much as 100% while increasing the stifness and strength a much as 30%. In addition, says Zyvex, ZNT-boost can be used with standard composite processing systems and reportedly is the simplest way to leverage the benefts of carbon nanomaterials. No process changes need to be made and no changes are required in catalysts or curing agents when using ZNT-boost. It is available in two forms: liquid and dry fake (powder) for most epoxy-based composite applications that include prepreg, vacuum- assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), infusion and hand layup. ZNT-boost works with most epoxies, vinyl esters and polyesters. www.zyvextech.com » VACUUM-BAGGING SUPPLIES Rubber-adhesive pressure-sensitive tapes Airtech Advanced Materials Group (Huntington Beach, CA, US) has intro- duced Econobreaker 2R, an inexpensive, multi-purpose, pressure-sensitive tape with a rubber-based adhesive. This tape is designed to hold down vacuum-bagging materials, thermocouples and other lay-up items used in composites fabrication. Econobreaker 2R is suitable for room-temperature applications and heat cures to 177°C. Reported benefts of the tape include good adhesion yet easy removal after part cure, as well as abrasion resistance when used against rough surfaces, and easy conformability to irregular surfaces. www.airtechonline.com ® NEW PRODUCTS