Feb 9 2009
PolyOne Corporation (NYSE: POL), a leading global provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions, today announced availability of its first commercial compounds made with Eastman Tritan™ copolyester. Under the terms of its market development agreement with Eastman Chemical Company (NYSE: EMN), PolyOne is the exclusive compounder and marketer of filled Tritan™ copolyester products in North America.
PolyOne has developed sixteen high-performance grades within its Edgetek™ compounds technology portfolio that incorporate Eastman Tritan™ copolyester. These grades are reinforced with varying levels of glass and mineral fillers.
Edgetek compounds made with Eastman Tritan™ copolyester offer molders an innovative alternative to polycarbonate. Tritan™ copolyester is manufactured without bisphenol-A (BPA) and provides numerous processing advantages as compared with other transparent polymers. Further, Tritan™ copolyester’s inherent chemical resistance and hydrolytic stability make the new compounds ideal for applications where heat and chemical attack are prevalent including such products as small kitchen appliances, reusable food containers, and infant care items, which may be subject to repeated dishwasher cycles.
“We are very pleased our strategic alliance with Eastman has so quickly resulted in a commercial offering,” said Craig Nikrant, vice president and general manager, Specialty Engineered Materials. “This set of Edgetek high-performance compounds, which are based on Tritan™ copolyester resins compounded with performance enhancing additives and reinforcers will be particularly notable for their unique combination of physical properties, durability, chemical and heat resistance, high-impact resistance, design flexibility and processing ease. These new compounds are an ideal extension of the Edgetek family of high-performance polymers.”
“Eastman is excited by the significant market potential for Eastman Tritan™ copolyester,” said Deborah Baum Crain, director of copolyester innovation. “Our collaboration with PolyOne is an ideal way to expand Tritan™ copolyester’s potential in ground-breaking applications and market opportunities that leverage the base polymer’s outstanding durability and ability to extend product life and increase aesthetic appeal.”