LyondellBasell Launches New High-Performance Lupolen Resins used in Rotomolding
ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, September 1, 2009 – LyondellBasell Industries is launching a new high-performance range of Lupolen high density polyethylene (HDPE) resins to address the diversified requirements of customer rotomolding applications. Produced using LyondellBasell’s Spherilene S low pressure gas phase process technology which employs a unique catalysis system, Lupolen GX 5002 and Lupolen GX 5003 resins achieve excellent cold temperature impact and environmental stress cracking resistance. Typical customer applications may include industrial storage tanks, containers, intermediate bulk containers, furniture, and playground and sporting equipment. Industry-defining performance Historically unattainable with other processes such as blow molding, injection molding or thermoforming, the rotomolding technology enables the design and production of complex, intricate parts, without the high pressures typically required during the processing and subsequent welding of final parts. Due to their elevated fluidity, Lupolen GX 5002 and GX 5003 resins offer converters the potential to improve processing conditions compared to conventional materials. According to Cees Besems, Technical Manager of Industrial Packaging for LyondellBasell, it is important to balance the melt flow rate against mechanical properties. “Typically, melt flow rate and cold temperature impact performance contradict each other, but these new grades now offer the mechanical properties required, with a significantly optimized melt flow rate.” Thin-wall design possibilities Another advantage offered by the new Lupolen grades is a wide processing window. Cooking time, one of the determining factors of cycle time in rotomolding technology, is shorter, thereby reducing the overall cycle time. LyondellBasell Industries is launching a new high-performance range of Lupolen high density polyethylene (HDPE) resins to address the diversified requirements of customer rotomolding applications. Lupolen GX 5002 resins can be considered by customers for use in the production of tanks and large containers; it outperforms other polyethylene resins particularly in terms of environmental stress cracking resistance. # # # LyondellBasell Industries is one of the world’s largest polymers, petrochemicals and fuels companies. We are the global leader in polyolefins technology, production and marketing; a pioneer in propylene oxide and derivatives; and a significant producer of fuels and refined products, including biofuels. Through research and development, LyondellBasell develops innovative materials and technologies that deliver exceptional customer value and products that improve quality of life for people around the world. LyondellBasell (www.lyondellbasell.com) is privately owned by ProChemie GmbH, a joint venture of Access Industries and ProChemie Holding Ltd. |