European grant assists in development of natural fiber-ABS composite

Elix ECO ABS-NF can be processed without having to modify machines and reportedly offer a number of key benefits. These include high stiffness, heat resistance, low molding shrinkage ratios, low emissions and weight reduction when compared to glass fiber-reinforced ABS. For example, Elix ECO ABS-NF has a density of 1.12 compared to 1.15 for ABS-GF. The material has been also tested for 3D printing technology with impressive results, both in terms of processability and aesthetics.

The development of Elix Natural Fibre Reinforced ABS was undertaken under the auspices of the EEA and Norway Grants. This was the first time that a European ABS producer was given a European Grant for a project to investigate new sustainable ABS materials and composites.

The EEA Grants and Norway Grants represent the contribution of Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to reducing economic and social disparities and to strengthening bilateral relations with 16 EU countries in Central and Southern Europe and the Baltics.

Introducing the new generation ABS polymer composite, David Castañeda, Operations Director and responsible for new products and Business Development, said: "We believe that this new material offers a range of sustainability benefits that meet current industry trends. At the same time, it underlines Elix Polymers' commitment to the establishment of a more environmentally sustainable product portfolio and establishes our company's position as a leading supplier of eco-friendly ABS materials."

Castañeda added: "The introduction of this new generation material fully fits our key objective: to expand the company's portfolio of materials for eco-friendly manufacturing, greater sustainability and health impact awareness."