Converters save time and energy with high clarity polypropylenes

30-May-12

To meet the need of converters for materials that deliver better finished products and that can be produced cost-effectively, SABIC has developed two new high clarity SABIC® PP Qrystal polypropylenes. These random copolymers, typically for injection moulding, were specially designed with unique flow behavior, providing processors with the flexibility to produce parts faster and with lower energy consumption. SABIC® PP QR674K, with a melt flow rate (MFR) of 40g/10min, was typically developed for more sensitive food contact applications, owing to its improved organoleptic performance (low odor). Typical target applications are caps and closures, houseware, kitchenware and food/non-food containers. SABIC® PP QR678K, with its high MFR of 80 g/10 min, is better suited to production of parts with complex shapes and/or long and narrow flow paths. Customer trials have shown around 15% higher flow than a standard PP random at the same MFR level, allowing machines to run at lower processing temperatures and 15% faster cycle times, potentially decreasing production costs. The PP Qrystal range, which was launched in 2010, now comprises four grades, with MFRs ranging from 25 to 80 g/10 min. All PP Qrystal grades can be processed at much lower temperatures than many other commonly used copolymer polypropylenes from the market, leading to significant reductions in cycle time and energy consumption, as a sustainable solution to decrease the molded article carbon footprint. They also have a good balance of impact strength and stiffness and enable customers to produce parts with no loss of transparency or aesthetics. The SABIC® PP Qrystal grade family is produced both in Europe and the Middle East and can be delivered globally.