SABIC provides extra sustainable material options by launching PCR-based resin

SABIC announced its new PCR-based NORYL resin technology, formulated using 25% or more post-consumer recycled (PCR) content and aimed at providing additional, sustainable material options for customers.

The technology was validated through the commercialization of several grades, including NORYL NH5120RC3 resin containing 30% PCR content, which helps to lower its global warming potential (GWP) by 10% compared to the incumbent, fossil-based grade.

The latest PCR-based technology can be incorporated into more than 200 existing NORYL resin grades, as well as an unlimited number of new grades based on specific customer requirements. These include a glass fiber-reinforced grade and an unreinforced, non-FR grade.

SABIC’s new PCR-based NORYL resin technology is formulated using 25% or more PCR content.

Customization available for specific applications

Further, SABIC offers resin customization services to meet specific application requirements, as well as a full array of technical support services. It can help support circularity while maintaining the robust physical properties required for demanding applications. This innovative and sustainable solution is among the first polyphenylene ether (PPE)-based material technologies to incorporate such a significant level of recycled content.

“Incorporating a high level of PCR content is just one of our approaches to making our products more sustainable. We have also pioneered chemical upcycling of single-use polyethylene terephthalate bottles and are expanding our use of bio-based feedstocks,” said Joshua Chiaw, director, Business Management, LNP & NORYL, Specialties, SABIC.

New NORYL NH5120RC3 resin further supports sustainability with non-brominated/non-chlorinated flame retardance. The material, which could be suitable for electrical applications such as heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) enclosures and photovoltaic / solar junction boxes, has a UL94 flame rating of V1 at 1.5mm. It also delivers a good balance of flow, heat performance and creep resistance.

To further expand its sustainable materials, the company is introducing a bio-based PPE technology that can be used to formulate any NORYL resin grade. Based on ISCC PLUS certified feedstocks, this bio-based technology will offer customers the opportunity to specify up to nearly 100% renewable content in NORYL, NORYL GTX, NORYL PPX and Flex NORYL grades.