New Reinforced Thermoplastics Combining Dimensional Stability and Flexibilty

Reinforced Thermoplastics, like most materials, typically become more stiff and brittle as they are formulated to increase dimensional stability (lower coefficient of linear thermal expansion and sag). A new family of thermoplastic composites offers very low coefficients of thermal expansion, sag comparable to rigid reinforced materials, yet retains flexibility and impact resistance.

This atypical balance of properties permits designers to make flexible parts without resorting to metal inserts to control part geometry. The poly (vinyl chloride) based formulations also offer chemical compatibility with various aesthetic surface materials, like high-gloss flexible PVC or paint. Therefore, complete trim parts can be designed using only materials of compatible composition, greatly facilitating the recyclability of the part. Exploiting the dimensional properties in part cross-sectional design can permit significantly reduced part weights.

This paper will give examples of part redesign utilizing the interesting property balance of these new reinforced thermoplastics, and quantify the resulting benefits.