Bioresins validated for electronics

Derived in part from postconsumer plastic waste, Valox iQ polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resin from Sabic Innovative Plastics (Pittsfield, MA), presented at the 2008 Electronics Goes Green Conference in September, has been validated in several major computer components to help electronics manufacturers become more environmentally compliant.

“Valox iQ resins aren’t just good possibilities for greener electronics—they have already been used commercially in computer cooling fans,” says Hiroshi Yoshida, global market director, electronics, for Sabic IP. “In addition, we’re expanding the iQ portfolio to encompass other environmentally responsible materials such as Xenoy iQ blends of amorphous polycarbonate and semicrystalline PBT resins, a good option for housings and bezels.”

The Valox iQ resins meet requirements for halogen-free parts through the use of proprietary flame-retardant technology, and have been validated in several major computer components including heat sink shrouds, connectors, and external bezel covers. In addition to reducing the use of fossil fuels by using postconsumer plastic waste including PET water bottles, they are also said to cut process energy and CO2 emissions from plastics manufacturing by more than 50% compared to other plastics in the market today.

Sabic Innovative Plastics
www.sabic-ip.com