Bayer is predicting 8% annual growth for its polycarbonate

Bayer is predicting 8% annual growth for its polycarbonate

Bayer MaterialScience is predicting an 8% annual growth rate for its polycarbonate over the next two years as demand for automotive glazing and optical media strengthens. Marketing and innovation director Ian Paterson said the company expects to see volume applications for polycarbonate automotive glazing within three years (PRW 4 May 2004).

The company, a partner with GE Advanced Materials in the Exatec joint venture, is working to develop special grades with integrated infrared and UV protection and scratch resistance. Paterson told a K preview in Cologne: “Designers are already considering light domes featuring 360-degree vision.”

Bayer MaterialScience chairman Hagen Noerenberg said the current market for car glazing was 30 million panes a year and that glass makers are showing increasing interest in plastics. Polycarbonate is already being used on Smart models and the transparent hatch door component of the Mercedes Sport Coupe.

Makrolon polycarbonate accounts for 25% of Bayer Material Science’s E7.5bn turnover. A major investment programme will increase capacity to more than 1 million tpa by 2009.