Materials supplier Asahi Kasei is to introduce its semi-aromatic polyamide Leona SG series to the European market. It notes that in addition to high stiffness, the material features an improved flowability and superior surface appearance without the need for additional surface treatment or coating.
The company says the material is being introduced to address changing demands from automotive suppliers and will be available in grades reinforced with 40%, 50% and 60% glass fiber.
Even with a high glass fiber content, the material is said to retain a high-quality surface quality and gloss. Furthermore, the material offers excellent mechanical strength even in wet conditions. In a conditioned state the 50% glass fiber filled SG105 is claimed to be superior to standard semi-aromatic polyamides.
While standard PA 66 shows a deterioration of 30% in tensile modulus compared with its dry state, the company says that SG105 maintains its performance. In addition, SG105 shows an 8% improvement in flexural strength than comparable semi-aromatic polyamides (25% better compared with standard PA). Additionally, the material’s high flowability enables thin-walled constructions and opens up new freedom in design in addition to potential material savings.
“Asahi Kasei’s plastics can offer more to the automotive industry than just lightweight applications. Leona SG is the next addition to our diversified material portfolio for automotive interior applications,” explained Taku Ishida, general manager of the engineering plastics division of Asahi Kasei Europe. “It offers significant cost advantages for our customers and at the same time addresses the changing needs of the car users with its premium surface quality.”
