CURV self-reinforced plastics (SRPs), based on the patented hot compaction technology, is an innovative line of single polymer composites that effectively bridge the gap between standard plastics and the glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GRP) product category. SRPs have the toughness of regular plastics with levels of rigidity normally associated with certain grades of GRP whilst at the same time being up to 50% lighter than the latter. CURV can service a wide range of applications including the automotive industry, industrial cladding, building and construction, cold temperature applications, audio products, personal protective equipment and sports goods. The product is also being tested for numerous other applications such as under-body panels, roof lining and flooring for low volume cars, anti-riot protection and luggage.

When combined with other materials, CURV can be used as an enabling material for new composites and applications. There are two main applications - foam and honeycomb laminates - that maintains as well as extends the concept of a 100% polypropylene (PP) composite product. CURV/expanded PP (EPP) foam laminates can be produced without adhesives during the compression cycle where the foam automatically bonds to the CURV sheets. Applications for this product include architectural panels, automotive components and insulation. In CURV/PP honeycomb laminates, the CURV sheets are bonded to honeycomb using any of a variety of adhesives.

Apart from these 100% PP laminates, the technology can also be extended to a product range which Propex Fabrics refer to as 'tailored CURV'. The flexibility as well as the tolerance controls in the continuous hot compaction process enables the incorporation of other materials, offering specific performance characteristics. By hot-compacting materials like aluminium, glass, aramides, carbon fiber and even GRPs together with the CURV substrates, one can create a totally new range of thermoplastic composites meeting a wide range of cost and performance targets.

CURV, a self reinforced PP that was introduced by BP Group a few years ago deservedly received the product innovation award from Frost & Sullivan for its outstanding value addition.This award was given to Profax, a company involved in manufacture of CURV products.