SABIC announced the launch of a new bio-based polyetherimide (PEI) resin combination that provides the same high performance and processability as traditional similar products.
The company claims that these new materials are the industry's first certified renewable high-performance amorphous polymers. Using a mass balance method, for every 100 kg of Ultem resin produced, SABIC replaces 25.5 kg of fossil raw materials, such as crude tall oil in the wood industry, with bio-based materials extracted from waste or residue.
As a direct material choice to replace the current Ultem materials, these resins are suitable for applications in consumer electronics, aerospace, automotive and other industries that require high temperature, dimensional stability or harsh mechanical properties. Potential markets and application examples of these resins may include consumer electronics (wearables and mobile devices), automotive (under-hood applications such as connectors, sensors, and valves), aerospace (interior, including panels and decorations), medical Healthcare (surgical equipment and disinfection trays) and electrical/electronics (5G network infrastructure).
Related personnel said: "Our new bio-based Ultem resin platform provides customers with a seamless option to integrate sustainability into their demanding applications."
The performance of the new product is the same as the traditional Ultem resin, and maintains the same regulatory list, including UL94, which means that no adjustments to product design and manufacturing processes are required.
Relevant personnel added: "In addition, customers can have full confidence in the environmental benefits of these materials, and they have been awarded the title of ISCC+."
According to the ISO14040/14044 agreement, an internal assessment conducted in accordance with the general principles of life cycle analysis showed that SABIC's bio-based Ultem resin has the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of the material by 10% compared to the existing grade of fossil-based. SABIC used its own main data when comparing these resins "from cradle to door", combined with the latest manufacturing data and industry average estimates. In addition, the bio-based Ultem resin meets the requirements of the Chemical Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction (REACH) regulations and the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive.
Related personnel said: "The bio-based raw materials used in the new Ultem material will not change performance characteristics, including long-term high temperature performance, chemical resistance, excellent mechanical and structural characteristics, dimensional and hydrolytic stability, excellent processability and Inherent flame retardancy. They can be considered as a comprehensive substitute for traditional Ultem resins or sulfone polymers such as PSU, PESU and PPSU."