COMPOSITES / The innovative resins for thermoplastic composites

COMPOSITES / The innovative resins for thermoplastic composites

ELIUM resins are innovative materials for the production of thermoplastic composites reinforced by continuous glass or carbon fibres. The resulting parts show mechanical properties similar to epoxy composites while presenting the major advantages of post-thermoformability and recyclability, and offering new possibilities for composite/ composite or composite/metal assemblies. Although it leads to a composite with a thermoplastic matrix, ELIUM resins are processed on similar equipment to that used today for thermoset composites, with quite similar polymerization cycle times and conditions. ELIUM resins are styrene-free formulations and do not contain any component that would impose strong constraints on operations due to Health issues. Together with ELIUM resins, Arkema proposes ready to use Luperox peroxide initiators optimized for the polymerization of the resin. ELIUM resins can be processed by RTM, RTM light, Flex Molding TM and Infusion, depending on the number of parts to be manufactured per day and the specifications of the part.

Liquid at room temperature Recyclable composite parts Easily processed by RTM and Infusion Excellent strength, stiffness and toughness Assembly by welding and adhesives

LIGHT RTM 0.5 bar 0.9 bar Composite Composite ELIUM resins have been specifically developed for RTM Light, with cycle time ranging from 20 to 60 minutes. ELIUM resins are low viscosity materials, allowing high filler content and good properties. Sandwich structures and monolithic parts can be made, either with fabrics or complexes made of two mats with an internal drain. RTM under pressure Metallic ELIUM resins can be ed with short cycle time to make up to100 parts per day by RTM under pressure. High reactivity, low viscosity and excellent mechanical properties are key advantages to make structural parts for the automotive and transport industries. RTM-TS 0.5 bar 0.9 bar Mold Thermoformed PMMA-ABS sheet Mold The decorative layer of the part is prepared by thermoforming a thermoplastic sheet such as ABS/PMMA to the final part shape and positioning this thermoformed surface layer in the prior to the reinforcing fabric laying operation. This innovative technology leads to reduced cycle times, while delivering a completely thermoplastic solution with Class A finish without any post-coating.

Vacuum Bag flow mesh Peel ply INFUSION ELIUM resins can be ed by infusion to make large and stiff structural parts, with excellent toughness. Low viscosity and long gel time ensure excellent fiber impregnation to reach optimum mechanical properties. Structural bonding is possible with AEC Polymers adhesives. Reinforcement 0.6 bar + Silicone flexible membrane Composite FLEX MOLDING TM Flex Molding TM from MVP and CCBM (Closed Cavity Bag Molding), uses a flexible re-usable membrane for higher turnaround parts, or parts with a negative draw. ELIUM resins are compatible with silicone reusable membranes. Structural or aesthetic parts can be ed with this technology. Structural composite parts Optimized carbon and glass fibers with specific sizings for ELIUM resins lead to composites that reach mechanical strengths similar to those of classical epoxy composites at similar reinforcement volume fractions. This result opens the way to structural applications in such industries as automotive, sports, wind energy, etc. It has also been shown by Arkema and its partners that it is possible to use natural fibers such as flax as reinforcement for ELIUM resins, bringing a very innovative solution for the production of green composites. Aesthetic semi-structural composite parts The reinforcing glass fabrics, RTM equipment, gelcoat, post-coating and polymerization cycle time to make aesthetic parts with ELIUM resins are similar to those used in the case of UPR based composites. Composite parts can be painted with PU top coat or made by RTM -TS with ABS/PMMA Class A sheets to avoid post-coating.

v v v EUROPE Arkema 420, rue d Estienne d Orves F-92705 Colombes Cedex Tel: +33 (0)1 49 00 80 80 Fax: +33 (0)1 49 00 83 96 AMERICAS Arkema Inc 100 PA Route 413 Bristol, PA 19007 Tel: 800 523 1532 Fax: 215 826 2796 ASIA Arkema 7F, 21 Gukhoe-daero 62-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu Seoul 150-874, Korea A global chemical company and France s leading chemicals producer, Arkema is building the future of the chemical industry every day. Deploying a responsible, innovation-based approach, we produce state-of-the-art specialty chemicals that provide customers with practical solutions to such challenges as climate change, access to drinking water, the future of energy, fossil fuel preservation and the need for lighter materials. With operations in more than 40 countries, some 14,000 employees and 10 research centers, Arkema generates annual revenue of 6.4 billion, and holds leadership positions in all its markets with a portfolio of internationally recognized brands. ARKEMA - A limited liability company with capital of 630 296 920 euros Nanterre Company and Commercial Registry No 445.074.685-02. 2014 / 1000 - Photos: istock, Thinkstock - Design by Septentrion The statements, technical information and recommendations contained herein are believed to be accurate as of the date hereof. Since the conditions and methods of use of the product and of the information referred to herein are beyond our control, Arkema expressly disclaims any and all liability as to any results obtained or arising from any use of the product or reliance on such information; NO WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR ANY OTHER WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IS MADE CONCERNING THE GOODS DESCRIBED OR THE INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN. The information provided herein relates only to the specific product designated and may not be applicable when such product is used in combination with other materials or in any process. The user should thoroughly test any application before commercialization. Nothing contained herein constitutes a license to practice under any patent and it should not be construed as an inducement to infringe any patent and the user is advised to take appropriate steps to be sure that any proposed use of the product will not result in patent infringement. See MSDS for Health & Safety Considerations. The information contained in this document is based on trials carried out by our Research Centres and data selected from the literature, but shall in no event be held to constitute or imply any warranty, undertaking, express or implied commitment from our part. Our formal specifications define the limit of our commitment. No liability whatsoever can be accepted by Arkema with regard to the handling, processing or use of the product or products concerned which must in all cases be employed in accordance with all relevant laws and/or regulations in force in the country or countries concerned. elium-composites.com 420, rue d Estienne d Orves F-92705 Colombes Cedex Tel: +33 (0)1 49 00 80 80 Fax: +33 (0)1 49 00 83 96 arkema.com