New metal-effect polymers enhance design aesthetics while trimming costs

28-May-09

Ticona Engineering Polymers recently unveiled its metal-effect engineering thermoplastics which they say can reduce costs and eliminate chemical pollutants associated with painting and, at the same time, achieve the aesthetics of a metallic look with plastics. The new innovative MetaLX metal-effect polymers are available in Hostaform® / Celcon® acetal copolymer (POM), Celanex® thermoplastic polyester (PBT) and Rite?ex® thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPC-ET). According to the company, MetaLX metal-effect polymers provide excellent mechanical performance and retain color after UV light and thermal exposure. These polymers are said to replicate the mold surface thereby leading to attractive surface appearance and texture while been resistant to stains, scratches and chemicals. In addition, they are also said to stay non-thermally conductive and fingerprint resistant unlike metal. The MetaLX metal-effect portfolio of appearance polymers can enable designers and manufacturers to reduce costs by eliminating secondary operations associated with painting or plating, such as deburring, pre-treatment, protective films, and associated shipping and special packaging. More importantly, they help to eliminate volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) associated with painting and avoid costly disposal fees for chemicals and solvents. These metal-effect polymers can access custom color matching capability, including automotive OEM master colors.