2009 R&D 100 Winner
POSS Flow Additives fromHybrid Plastics, Inc., Hattiesburg, Miss., are a family of high temperature, nanostructured chemicals used as alloying agents to increase the flow of thermoplastic polymers, especially for high performance, high temperature thermoplastic polymers. These flow aids are based on POSS nanostructured chemicals, which have a hybrid organic/inorganic structure that combines a thermally robust silsesquioxane core with a compatibilizing organic shell. The combination makes POSS thermally stable up to 500°C, a level not matched by any other commercial flow aid additives. This allows it to be used to aid high temperature polymers processed at temperatures over 350°C. As a result, parts can made using less material and, therefore, will be less expensive. Polymers formed using POSS should also be able to replace heavier metal parts, as well. The decrease in polymer viscosity will allow processors of these polymers save in cycle times and energy consumption.
Technology
High temperature, nanostructured chemicals
Developers
Hybrid Plastics, Inc.
