The continued evolution of thermoplastic composites just got even more interesting with this week’s launch by Arkema of the first range of a novel family of liquid thermoplastics that are transformed via reactive closed-mold processes such as room-temperature infusion, RTM, and flex-molding as used for composite thermosets.
An affordable new option for utility transmission lines from Southwire uses a multi-stranded composite core of Celanese's Celstran continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic rods (CFR-TPR).
The high-diffusion Lexan PC enables the injection-blow molding of the Infinia LED bulb resulting in a bulb with omnidirectional evenly dispersed light.
Long-time manufacturer of durable lighting for demanding environments Kenall Lighting, Gurnee, Ill., opted to use Makrolon PC grades from Bayer MaterialScience, Pittsburgh, specifically developed for use in LED lighting for a new line of luminaires, citing improved light transmission and efficiency when compared with competitive products.
The first 3D printer capable of printing objects using composite materials, including continuous carbon fiber, will see commercial fruition mid-year, while another such system is well under development with a longer lead time to market.