New modified PEEK offers comparable performance at up to 30% cost reduction

Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, has unveiled a new line of modified PEEK grades by the name AvaSpire® AV-700 series which it says will fill the cost/performance gap between high-performance crystalline polymers (PPS, LCP, and high-temperature nylon) and PEEK, an ultra-performance crystalline polymer. These proprietary PEEK-based formulations - available in unfilled, filled, and wear-resistant grades - are said to offer comparable strength and modulus, equivalent or better chemical resistance, and up to a 30% cost reduction versus comparable PEEK grades. Targeted uses include demanding applications in automotive, heavy-duty off-highway equipment, oil and gas recovery, semiconductors and chemical processing. The flagship material is AvaSpire AV-722 BG 20, an unfilled resin that is the basis for most of the AV-700 series formulations. According to the company, all the six grades within the new line provide the high-level performance that is on par with comparable PEEK grades in terms of strength and stiffness, elongation and toughness, fatigue resistance, heat resistance, chemical resistance and wear performance. Their melt viscosities and processability are also equivalent to those of standard PEEK grades. The materials can be injection molded or extruded on conventional processing machinery. The AvaSpire 700 series is finding use in a broad range of applications including transmission components, engine parts, brake components, seals, valves, poppets, bushings and bearings.