The group will introduce high-stiffness and high-temperature grades 'in the next few months'

The group will introduce high-stiffness and high-temperature grades 'in the next few months'

PolyOne is to expand its range of Maxxam LST nanoclay-filled polypropylene nanocomposite compounds, which it launched in March. Developed with nanoclay supplier Nanocor, Maxxam LST is currently only available as the general-purpose grade 5571. However, PolyOne’s market development manager for nanocomposites George Zollos said new high-stiffness and high-temperature grades will be introduced “in next few months”.

The material is mainly produced in the US, but PolyOne plans to add European production in the next six months. Zollos said the March launch had generated a “tremendous response” and that he expected the first commercial applications to be announced this summer.

Target applications for the nanocomposite compounds include exterior trim and instrument panel substrates in the automotive market. In addition, the improved stiffness and impact resistance of nanocomposites are generating interest for the production of housings for small appliances and power tools.

The producers of materials handling products are also planning to exploit the durability and low weight of nanocomposites in crates and pallets. According to Zollos, Maxxam LST nanocomposite compounds are three to five times as expensive as standard PP.