Arkema (Colombes / France; www.arkema.com) has added new masterbatches to its “Graphistrength” line of carbon nanotube products and developed a new range of “Nanostrength” acrylic block copolymers. The Graphistrength masterbatches include a universal grade for various thermoplastics, new grades for elastomers and solid concentrates for liquid epoxy and aqueous solutions.

The universal grade, Graphistrength CM12-30, has a 30% carbon nanotube content and is suitable for a wide range of thermoplastic matrices, including polyamides (6, 6.6, 12), polyesters (PET, PBT), PC and polyacetals. Arkema said the product can be fully diluted within the thermoplastic matrix, allowing homogeneous dispersion of carbon nanotubes.

For elastomers, the company has developed Graphistrength CE1-20, CE2-40 and CE3-35, for fluoro-elastomer, nitrile, and silicone respectively. These products contain up to 40% carbon nanotubes and can easily be diluted.

Arkema said the Graphistrength concentrates take the form of solid granules, and contain up to 25% carbon nanotubes. They can be fully dispersed in liquid epoxy and aqueous solutions, and can be used in composites and in adhesives, ink or paint.

The Nanostrength block copolymers are made up of two or more covalently linked and chemically distinct segments. Arkema said they self-assemble or nanostructure at the molecular level, bringing superior mechanical strength without losing any of the important properties of the matrix material.

Three Nanostrength product ranges are available: MMA copolymers containing two polymethylmethacrylate endblocks and a polybutylacrylate central block; MMA copolymers containing functional groups in either the central block and/or external blocks; and PS, polybutadiene and polymethylmethacrylate (SBM) block copolymers.