Americhem Focuses on Development of Compounds & Additives that Target Some Key Trends

“The trends we have observed are related to different segments’ needs. For outdoor decking, there is a shift to darker colors with a realistic wood appearance that have lower heat retention,” says Matthew Hellstern, CEO of Americhem.  Hellstern tells Plastics Technology that the company’s eCap technology, among the focus points of the company’s exhibit (Booth S17031), are high-performance pre-colored capstock compounds, including PVC-based, that have proven color stability and performance over traditional PVC compounds.

Another area of focus is the antimicrobials, says Hellstern. “As bacteria and microbes evolve, a wider breadth of antimicrobial solutions are needed. Our antimicrobial line has been expanded to work across a wider range of polymers that can be processed at lower temperatures—PVC, TPEs and TPOs.”

The company is also seeking to help processors eliminate secondary processes. Here, Hellstern points to the company’s Surlyn Reflections Series of thermoplastic alloys, gained via the acquisition of LTL Color Compounders. The company has had worldwide exclusive license for over a decade to make and sell DuPont’s Surlyn Reflections Series resins. These alloys of ionomer and nylon 6 are used to injection mold weatherable, glossy parts. Says Hellstern, “Manufacturers are continuing to look at ways to reduce secondary processes. The Surlyn Reflections Series thermoplastic alloys, are high-gloss resins that produce highly durable parts that require no painting. These alloys are less viscous and flow easily to fill larger, thinner-walled parts while still providing visual appeal.”

Asked about the company’s direction over the next few years, Hellstern says, “As a unified Americhem, with the acquisition of LTL, Infinity Compounds and Vi-Chem, we have synergies across material platforms and are able to tap into a wider breadth of technical expertise. Our customers can trust us to be their partner when providing the right solution to solve their most complex problems. Like other plastics manufacturers, we evaluate new opportunities based on strategic fit. We will continue to evaluate acquisition opportunities while investing in new development technologies.”