DSM's Akulon® Fuel Lock Enables ICO Polymers' New Solution for Rotomoulding Monolayer Tanks

Akulon® Fuel Lock, an innovative-polyamide 6 technology developed by DSM, forms the basis of a new solution for rotomoulding monolayer tanks, developed by ICO Polymers, a subsidiary of A. Schulman, Inc. and a leading producer of rotational molding polymers. The monolayer PA6 solution, named ICORENE® 7620 FUEL LOCK, was developed for small engine tanks for off-road vehicles to comply with the latest legislation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which was introduced to minimize emissions from fuel evaporation. ICORENE® 7620 FUEL LOCK was launched during the Conference of the Alliance of Roto Moulding Organizations (ARMO), held in Lyon, France, in early October, where it was enthusiastically received by industry insiders who recognize the intrinsic value of this innovation. The new monolayer PA6 solution is based on the successful Akulon® Fuel Lock, an innovative polyamide 6 from DSM, originally designed for injection and blow-moulded fuel tanks that are used for engines in hand-held and ground-supported lawn and garden equipment, as well as recreational, professional landscaping and marine applications. ICORENE® 7620 FUEL LOCK eliminates the need for after-treatment procedures such as the environmentally challenging fluorination process (based on mail Ralf, thought fluorinated solutions were not the competition here. Moreover, this monolayer solution obviates the need for complex multi-layer concepts, delivering improved equipment efficiency and productivity - and therefore lower energy consumption during processing. In use, the monolayer solution ensures a durable barrier performance over the required liability period of five years, and this does not diminish over time. The easy-to-process toughened polyamide PA6-based monolayer rotomolding (RTM) solution was designed specifically for the production of small engine tanks for off-road vehicles. Its development was made possible by combining ICO Polymers' expertise in RTM, particle size reduction and processing - and DSM's leadership in high performance engineering materials. Heinrich Lingnau at ICO Polymers, BU manager of specialty powders for EMEA region, said: "PA6 will surely establish a position in the RTM market because of its combination of high strength, modulus and relative high melt temperature. Working with DSM, we were able to develop this significant innovation that helps to meet the dual challenges of climate and energy." Dr. Claudine Porcel, R&D manager of ICO Polymers for EMEA region, said: "The improved technology and professionalism of convertors in the RTM market now makes it possible to process PA6 effectively and efficiently." Tim Vorage, Application Development Manager of DSM, stated: "Our newly developed cost-effective Akulon® Fuel Lock for the RTM market is the outcome of an intense cooperation with the research department of ICO Polymers. The material not only shows a permeation factor of below 20% of the EPA limit, but it also exhibits high toughness at low temperatures." Ralf Ponicki, Global Segment Manager Outdoor Power Equipment of DSM, added: "The rotomoulding solution is very much appreciated by customers that already use our injection and/or blowmoulding solution, since they can now use a solution for permeation reduction from one source with proven technology that gives peace of mind regarding liability." Besides EPA compliant tanks, ICORENE® 7620 FUEL LOCK can be used in any applications that require low fuel permeation, low temperature impact performance and UV stability. DSM - Bright Science. Brighter Living.(TM)
Royal DSM is a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials. By connecting its unique competences in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences DSM is driving economic prosperity, environmental progress and social advances to create sustainable value for all stakeholders. DSM delivers innovative solutions that nourish, protect and improve performance in global markets such as food and dietary supplements, personal care, feed, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, automotive, paints, electrical and electronics, life protection, alternative energy and bio-based materials. DSM's 22,000 employees deliver annual net sales of around Euros9 billion. The company is listed on NYSE Euronext. More information can be found at www.dsm.com. About A. Schulman, Inc.
A. Schulman, Inc. is a leading international supplier of high-performance plastic compounds and resins headquartered in Akron, Ohio. Since 1928, the Company has been providing innovative solutions to meet its customers' demanding requirements. The Company's customers span a wide range of markets such as packaging, mobility, building & construction, electronics & electrical, agriculture, personal care & hygiene, sports & leisure, custom services and others. The Company employs approximately 3,100 people and has 34 manufacturing facilities globally. A. Schulman reported net sales of $2.2 billion for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2011. Additional information about A. Schulman can be found at www.aschulman.com. Akulon® Fuel Lock is a trademark of Royal DSM N.V.
ICORENE® is a trademark of ICO Holland B.V. For more information:
Paula Wolfe
DSM Engineering Plastics
Tel.: +1 812 435 7539
Fax: +1 812 435 7702
E-mail: Paula.wolfe@dsm.com