ICO Polymers sign Dupont de Nemours deal and add new ICORENE® speciality grades

DÜSSELDORF, October 25, 2001 – As a result of the supply agreement signed with DuPont de Nemours Intl. S.A., to use HYTREL® Thermoplastic Polyester Eastomer, ICO Polymers are pleased to announce the introduction of the first grades of ICORENE® powders for rotational moulding. These speciality developed powders, which combine the expertise and experience of ICO Polymers in rotational moulding with the excellent properties of HYTREL Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomers, are opening new opportunities for rotational moulding industry in automotive and non-automotive applications.

HYTREL has a unique combination of properties. It is tough, resilient, resistant to chemicals, oil and solvents, has high resistance to creep, impact and flex fatigue, is flexible at low temperatures and retains all these properties even at high temperatures. ICO's ICORENE® K3300 series takes advantage of these properties to create a thermoplastic elastomer range of products which are easy to mould, have a nominal hardness in the range of 35-55D and are exceptionally tough with high ESCR (Environmental Stress Crack Resistance) and impact resistance. They also have excellent resistance to heat ageing and can be flexible even at low temperatures. This makes it an ideal material for diverse application areas such as automotive hinge covers, tubing, fuel tanks, flexible hosing and impact deadening mats.

Another worldwide introduction from ICO Polymers is the ICORENE C-series. This range of electrically conductive polyethylene powders has an excellent surface conductivity performance. It is available in several grades: from low density C503, medium density C501, medium purpose C517 to flame retardant C513. These powders now have better flow-out behaviour which makes it possible for rotomoulders to make complex shapes with zero surface defects. They also have significantly improved dart impact strength. Because of this, they are now being used to make replacements for products such as expensive stainless steel vessels and fan housings. "We are fascinated to see where our powder will be used next!" says a delighted John Steele of ICO's UK Technical Centre.

For manufacturers who want the strength and durability that plastics can offer but who need their products to look like antique wood or terracotta, ICO Polymers has a special ICORENE grade. This ready-to-use powder is sold in bags and gives products an authentic antique look. There is currently a range of four colours: Antique Light Pine, Antique Powder Blue, Antique Sea Green and Antique Terracotta.

If you would more information about ICO Polymers' ICORENE speciality products, visit ICO Polymers on Stand 3E79-5 at the American Pavilion in Hall 3, at the K2001 exhibition.

® ICORENE is a registered trademark of ICO Europe BV.

® HYTREL is a registered trademark of DuPont de Nemours.