Advanced PE Compounds Enable Rotational Molders to Boost Properties of Containers and Watercraft or to Thin-Wall by 10%

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LODI, OHIO, U.S.A., July 1, 2002: New polyethylene compounds for rotationally molded applications like kayaks and rugged-use containers cost the same as crosslinkable PE and the best available metallocene PE yet are tougher and far stiffer, making possible a big improvement in product performance or resin savings of 10 to 15%, it was announced today by Teknor Color Company.

TekTuff (TM) compounds exhibit a flexural modulus that is 50% greater than that of the medium-density metallocene PE-based compounds now widely used in such applications, provide greater impact strength at -40 °C, and have a higher heat-distortion temperature rating; yet they mold just as readily as the metallocene product, according to Harry R. Howard, Director of R&D.

"Although metallocene-based PE was an advance over conventional crosslinkable PE," said Howard, "our new TekTuff compounds are so much more stiff and durable than the metallocene product that we recommend them as candidates to replace costly high-performance systems like fiberglass in transportation and farm-equipment applications."

The strength, stiffness, and resistance to heat distortion provided by TekTuff compounds enable them to replace crosslinkable PE in many applications that do not require especially high chemical-resistance, according to Dennis S. Foy, Market Manager. "In addition, TekTuff compounds eliminate the need for crosslinking agents, which pose air-quality problems in molding plants, and have the advantage of being recyclable. Once crosslinked, PE is thermoset in character, preventing the re-use of reject parts or scrap. TekTuff compounds remain thermoplastic and can be recycled readily."

Formulated with a UV stabilizer for outdoor weatherability, TekTuff compounds are available in natural form or as ready-to-mold custom-precolored formulations.