To be commercially available in early 2009, these products will contain high amounts of 2-vinyl-5-norbornene (VNB) as third monomer and provide excellent peroxide curing efficiency. DSM says they allow cost-effective compounding of Keltan formulations that require peroxide curing, with customers able to lower the amount of peroxide used while maintaining material properties and improving the cost/performance balance. In addition to savings on cross linking peroxide, the reduction of peroxide provides benefits in terms of reduction of bloom, odor, and taste, as well as improvement of electrical properties and heat resistance.
DSM says compounds can also be loaded with much higher levels, while maintaining material properties. Ultimately, DSM believes the balance of physical properties and high-temperature resistance can be “markedly improved”. DSM Elastomers B.V., Sittard, Netherlands; +31 46 477 0077; www.dsmelastomers.com
