May 21 2008
PolyOne Corporation, a leading global provider of specialized polymer materials, services, and solutions, today announced the availability of select GLS specialty thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) through the company’s North American distribution operations.
Eight grades of VERSAFLEX and VERSOLLAN TPEs, all suitable for overmolding applications and all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) compliant, expand and complement the wide range of engineered thermoplastic resins offered by PolyOne Distribution, a leading supplier of polymer materials from 23 major suppliers.
“The globally recognized GLS brand strengthens our overall distribution portfolio,” said Michael Rademacher, senior vice president and general manager, PolyOne Distribution. “There is strong demand for these versatile materials, particularly in the healthcare sector – a primary focus for PolyOne – as well as industrial and consumer applications. This initial PolyOne Distribution offering of VERSAFLEX and VERSOLLAN TPEs will give our customers a single source for complementary materials that can be used in a wide range of overmolding and soft-touch applications. It also enhances our position as a key supplier to our target markets.”
According to Freedonia Industry Research, global demand for thermoplastic elastomers will grow 6.2 percent annually through 2009, driven by direct displacement of competitive materials and by over-molds onto rigid plastic and metal. In addition to providing PolyOne with a competitive advantage in this dynamic market, the well-known GLS TPEs enhance the breadth and depth of the company’s offering.
VERSAFLEX elastomer alloys are next generation TPEs designed to deliver high performance in demanding applications. Grades now being offered through PolyOne Distribution include clear, sterilizable medical TPEs, high performance overmolding alloys, and a versatile easy processing general purpose series.
VERSOLLAN elastomer alloys, which contain BASF Corporation’s high-performance Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), are a new class of soft TPU elastomers with improved processability and cycle times. These products have the enhanced performance characteristics of TPUs with the rubbery grip and a matte finish.