Arkema (Colombes / France; www.arkema.com) has expanded its range of “Kynar” PVDFs with the addition of “Kynar UHM”, which it says “provides a whole new set of properties for PVDF”. Characterised by a high flexural modulus, heat deflection temperature, abrasion resistance, tensile strength, pressure capability and creep resistance, the material was developed specifically for applications that require chemical resistance to chlorine, bromine, strong acids and oxidants, halogens, aromatic solvents and aliphatic hydrocarbons, Arkema said. The grade is also said to provide resistance in harsh thermal, chemical and ultraviolet environments. In addition, “Kynar UHM” reportedly demonstrates “excellent” flame resistance capabilities, both as a stand-alone material and as a composite.

Like other members of the “Kynar” family, UHM is said to be easily melt processed by most standard methods such as injection moulding and extrusion. The material can be processed into a range of components such as tubes, pipes, fittings, valves, sheets, rods, stock shapes, tubing, tanks and nozzles, Arkema said, adding that it is also bondable to other substrates, including polymers.

Key applications include the chemical processing and petrochemical sectors, wire and cable, E&E, high purity and transportation fields. Its strength and long-lasting performance also make “Kynar UHM” a good material for demanding industrial applications like semiconductor, pulp and paper, nuclear waste processing, mining and general chemical processing, Arkema said.