Sep 21 2006
ExxonMobil Chemical has introduced a new version of Santoprene(TM) thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) that complies with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations for food contact and bonds with engineering thermoplastics (ETPs). The new grade is suitable for many types of applications which come into contact with food and liquids including kitchen utensils, cutlery, blenders and processing equipment, food storage containers, small kitchen appliances such as toasters, kettles and microwaves, and caps, seals and closures.
Santoprene TPV B100 is designed for excellent adhesion to acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), acrylic (PMMA), acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyphenylene oxide (PPO)/PS blends using cold insert, two-shot injection or extrusion molding. "There has been great interest expressed by our customers from around the world for a food contact compliant grade," said Seth Barron, Santoprene products global strategic market manager, consumer. "We have now completed the process so the product is FDA compliant. Santoprene TPV B100 is well suited for food contact applications where designers, processors and OEMs are looking to produce hard/soft material combinations without the need for adhesives."
Santoprene TPV B100 provides greater design flexibility and helps reduce the number of manufacturing steps. Because it adheres directly to ETPs during processing it can reduce the need for multiple-component assembly, improving product development cycle times and lowering system costs.
Dishwasher and microwave safe, FDA compliant Santoprene TPV B100 is a soft, non-hygroscopic elastomer which exhibits excellent surface appearance, a durable soft-touch feel, excellent colorability and excellent processability.