Saudi petrochemicals and plastics giant Sabic (Riyadh; www.sabic.com) has expanded its LNP Elcrin iQ range of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resins with a new grade suited to consumer-electronic applications such as fan housings in computers and automotive seating or electrical connectors and enclosures.

The LNP Elcrin WF0061BiQ grade is made from ocean-bound PET bottles that are repolymerised into PBT with virgin-like performance properties using Sabic’s proprietary chemical upcycling technology. The compound, reinforced with glass fibre, features non-brominated, non-chlorinated flame retardancy that meets the UL94 V0 standard at 0.8mm and F1 rating, the company says.

Related: Sabic launches recyclate from ocean-bound PET

The material is heat-resistant, tough, and delivers high flow for thin-wall applications, and is a drop-in replacement for virgin PBT resin, according to Sabic. Internal life cycle analysis conducted in accordance with ISO 14040/14044 protocols shows the compound offers up to a 14% reduction in carbon footprint and up to 25% reduction in cumulative energy demand when compared to a glass-filled virgin PBT compound.