Ashland Introduces Powder-Prime Capable SMC Resin/Adhesive System
DUBLIN, Ohio - New technology from within Ashland Performance Materials has developed a powder-prime capable sheet molding compound (SMC) formulation and adhesive for automotive component assembly. A first for the automobile industry, this system was developed by Ashland Composite Polymers and Ashland Specialty Polymers & Adhesives, business groups of Ashland Performance Materials, a division of Ashland Inc. (NYSE:ASH).
The solution resulted from a combined development effort that leveraged Ashland's expertise in both composite and adhesive chemistry. Previously, composites were unable to be successfully processed through powder-prime systems due to the non-conductive nature of composite materials. Ashland's AROTRAN® 610 SMC resin solves this problem, and the new PLIOGRIP® 5500 epoxy adhesive allows composite components to be processed simultaneously with metal parts. Preliminary laboratory tests conducted by Ashland have shown the combination of Ashland's AROTRAN SMC resin and PLIOGRIP 5500 adhesive provides performance characteristics that meet or exceed OEM requirements.
"Our tests have shown excellent adhesion to Ashland's powder-prime AROTRAN 610 resin and coated metal, with cycle times as low as 60 seconds through conventional heated assembly fixtures," said Rick Lupisella, marketing manager, Ashland Specialty Polymers & Adhesives. The adhesive formulation is also low in odor and features a favorable environmental profile.
Ashland Composite Polymers is a leader in supplying products, processes and technologies to the global marketplace for composites and gelcoats.
Ashland Specialty Polymers & Adhesives is a global leader in pressure sensitive and structural adhesives for packaging and converting, building and construction, and transportation.
Ashland Performance Materials is a worldwide manufacturer and supplier of specialty chemicals and customized services to the building and construction, packaging and converting, transportation, marine and metal casting industries. It is a technology leader in metal casting consumables and design services; unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins and gelcoats; and high-performance adhesives and specialty resins.
Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH), a diversified, global chemical company, provides quality products, services and solutions to customers in more than 100 countries. A FORTUNE 500 company, it operates through four wholly owned divisions: Ashland Performance Materials, Ashland Distribution, Valvoline and Ashland Water Technologies. To learn more about Ashland, visit www.ashland.com
