October 25, 2010 Solvay Advanced Polymers
Joins Forces with Mitsubishi Gas Chemical on Bio-Based Polyamides
Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, is collaborating with Mitsubishi
Gas Chemical Co. Inc. (MGC), Tokyo, on the development of a
unique line of renewably-sourced specialty polymers. The joint
work is initially focused on the introduction of high-temperature
bio-based polyamides
for high-performance durable applications. With a heat deflection
temperature of approximately 270°C for glass-filled compounds, the
new polymer will have greater thermal performance than many
current bio-based polyamides and polyesters.
Under the collaboration, the two companies plan to build upon MGC's
development of a new monomer which will be used to co-develop
a new line of specialty polymers. These high-performance
polyamides, based on bio-based Sebacic acid derived from castor
oil, are expected to be among the highest temperature bio-based
polyamides in the industry and will nicely complement Solvay's
high-temperature Amodel® polyphthalamide (PPA) product
line.
MGC has worked closely with Solvay Advanced Polymers over the
last 25 years as a supplier of MXDA monomer used to produce
Solvay's Ixef® polyarylamide (PARA).
"This unique collaboration brings together two world-class
companies who seek to extend the performance profile of bio-based
polyamides," said George Corbin, president of Solvay
Advanced Polymers. "This is driven by
environmentally-conscious manufacturers who are continually
striving for new sustainable alternatives."
Corbin added that Solvay's expertise in polymerizing and
compounding high-heat polyamides, being the first company to
commercialize this class of polymer in the late 1980's under the
Amodel tradename, and its extensive knowledge and global reach in
high-performance plastics bring significant value to the
relationship.
"We're very positive about the valuable synergies resulting
from this joint development work," said Chikara Morishima,
general manager, Aromatic Chemicals Division 1, Aromatic
Chemicals Co. for MGC. "The expertise of MGC and its
affiliates in aminated monomers and polymers and Solvay's leading
global marketing activity in high- temperature polymers make this
a strong team capable of opening up new doors in bio-based
polyamides."
The new material boasts low moisture retention, a high
crystallization rate, excellent wear resistance, and good
toughness. Key potential uses include reflow soldering
applications, high-temperature automotive parts, and sliding
applications (gears).
Solvay and MGC are currently working together to develop an
optimized manufacturing process for the new polymer. Meanwhile,
MGC has filed numerous patents to cover its extensive development
work in resin composition, production, and applications.
The multi-year development project will examine market viability,
commercial scale-up, and capital planning.
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耐熱バイオベースポリアミドを開発
三菱ガス化学（MGC）は植物由来の原料を使用した高耐熱ポリアミド樹脂の開発に成功し、市場開拓を開始します。
このポリアミド樹脂は、分子構造の最適化により結晶性を高めることで高い耐熱性を実現する一方、融点を300℃以下に抑え、良好な成形加工性を維持しています。その耐熱温度から、LED周辺部材、鉛フリーハンダを必要とする電気･電子部品、自動車のエンジン周辺部材などの用途への販売が期待されます。
さらに原料の50%以上に植物由来の化合物を使用しており、国内ではバイオマスプラスチックに分類されます。
MGCは自社原料を使用したポリアミド樹脂として既にMXナイロンを生産販売しております。新潟工場と米国現地法人であるMGCアドヴァンスドポリマーズ(ヴァージニア州)に合わせて年産約2万5千トンの生産設備を有し、主に食品包装材料用途と成形材料用途に広く販売しております。
今回開発した高耐熱ポリアミド樹脂についても、将来的には同拠点を含む複数拠点での生産を行う予定です。
MGCは、各種エンジニアリングプラスチックの成形材料用途向け販売について、三菱エンジニアリングプラスチックス(本社：東京都港区)を通じて行っています。