Currently, high-performance polyamides have unprecedented growth opportunities in the global market. Solvay's specialty polymers are ideally positioned to help manufacturers make the most of this situation.
Polyamides are thermoplastics and can be found almost everywhere: from clothing to automobiles, construction, electronics and home appliances. Because of this, they have a wide range of products and a wide range of applications.
Solvay's high-performance polyamides (HPPAs) have been commercialized. The star product in its portfolio is Ixef® para, a high-performance material with metal-like strength and very smooth surface finish, making it ideal for Used in small appliances, medical equipment or automotive interior parts. However, in recent years, the Group's specialty polymer business has been working to provide a second option, Omnix® HPPA. "We have developed a more cost-effective version of Ixef®para for customers who do not need high-performance polyamides, such as consumer products, smart devices or automotive applications," explained Thomas Kohnert, Product Manager, Omnix®HPPA.
Better performance, lighter weight, same value
Over the past year, significant changes in the global polyamide market environment have created new opportunities for OMNIX® HPPA. Polyamide 66, also known as PA66 or nylon 66, is one of the most widely used thermoplastics and has experienced sharp price increases. what is the reason? "There is a severe shortage of key raw materials," Thomas Kohnert explained, and there are only four plants in the world that produce one of the raw materials needed to make PA66 monomers, all of which are at full capacity. As a result, the price of PA66 has increased by more than 40%.
As a result, Omnix® HPPA has become a cost-competitive choice in a wider range of applications. "PA66 is a good polymer, but not a high-performance material," Thomas Kohnert continued. "Due to the current situation, manufacturers are looking for alternative solutions. With OMNIX® HPPA, OEMs can basically pay the same price and get better performance while continuing to use the same injection molding tools." Switch to high Another benefit of performance polyamides is that parts can be made with thinner walls, use less resin and reduce weight, thereby reducing costs.
Rising star in polyamide
The shortage of raw materials for polyamide 66 is not expected to be a short-term problem. The structural reasons for this market shift mean that this situation will last for years.
Thomas Kohnert explained, "However, we are not targeting the entire PA66 market, which represents hundreds of thousands of tons per year." "We focus on edge applications, such as structural elements that do not require high heat resistance, such as water meters Enclosures, electrical components and certain automotive applications. "
Produced at the Solvay plants in Belgium and China, Omnix®HPPA also provides stability in terms of pricing and supply, which manufacturers will definitely like. "And," Thomas Kohnert concludes, "we are also developing new grades to expand our product portfolio and address more polyamide needs in the market in the near future."