Operations commence at DSM's PA4T plant at the Netherlands

28-Apr-08

Royal DSM N.V. has commenced operations at its new PA4T plant located at Sittard-Geleen, the Netherlands. PA4T, the new polymer for high performance engineering thermoplastics, finds application in electronics and other sectors. PA4T, developed by DSM Engineering Plastics, is the first new polymer to be introduced in the new millennium. PA4T answers market trends that call for miniaturization and the convergence of electronic devices, and has an exciting and unique balance of properties that enables automotive customers to bring metal replacement to the next level offering opportunities for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. PA4T, the new polymer for high performance engineering thermoplastics, was launched in September 2007, after which several trials have been conducted at selected customers. The initial results and customer feedback are very positive. With the opening of the market development plant access of customers to PA4T will be extended. The balance of dimensional stability, high mechanical and thermal performance and exceptionally low moisture uptake outpaces any existing polymer. PA4T addresses market needs for lead free surface mount devices such as circuit boards used in personal computers, as well as the current move towards halogen free electronics. In Lighting, such as LEDs, DSM expects PA4T to support customer requirements for high reflectivity, high temperature resistance, high mechanical strength and low out gassing.