New PP for innovative stormwater management systems

18-Jan-10

Hostalen, a new polypropylene (PP) resin that meets customer requirements for innovative stormwater management systems has been launched by LyondellBasell Industries. The new, natural PP copolymer used in injection-molded rainwater regulating devices for channel drainage and total sewer systems. Compared with standard resins in the market, Hostalen PP N2122 resin offers an exceptional balance of mechanical properties, including a higher melt flow rate (MFR), very low creep performance and long service life. The grade is impact-resistant at sub-zero temperatures and has high oxidation resistance. The new PP resin has been extensively used in Wavin Q-Bic stormwater management systems- an underground storage system for infiltration and containment of rainwater. It has an intelligent design that allows inspectability, cleanability and integral shaft. These units can be assembled and attached to an underground structure for temporary stormwater storage to limit the outflow, or as an alternative for domestic drains to allow stormwater infiltrate into the soil. "Conventional pipe grades typically have an MFR of 0.3g/10min (at 230°C), while the new Hostalen PP N2122 resin has an MFR of 2.0g/10min," said Gianluca Brescia, head of LyondellBasell's pipe, industrial sheet and pipe coating business unit. The resin has good creep resistance combined with high impact strength to prevent blocks from collapsing under traffic loads and damage during installation, Brescia said, adding: "Flowability on the one hand, and impact and creep resistance on the other hand, are diametrically opposing forces. However, the Hostalen PP N2122 resin offers the ideal balance of both." "Efficient rainwater management is increasingly becoming a major challenge for many parts of the world," said Brescia. "Climate change that is causing higher variations in rainfall and growing fresh drinking water requirements in highly populated urban and industrial areas is creating the need for improved water management systems. This new application success with Wavin illustrates LyondellBasell's dedication to working with leading industry partners to develop step-change solutions that improve quality of life."