GE Plastics BV (HQ: PO Box 117, NL-4600 AC Bergen op Zoom) reports a significant breakthrough in the development of conductive plastics, "once again setting standards in plastics technology": An improved, conductive version of „Noryl" GTX (PPO/PA blend) dispenses with the need to prime plastic parts before painting them. By adding conductive material, GE Plastics was able to develop a thermoplastic which makes it possible to paint hard-to-reach places evenly or, if necessary, even to paint only selected areas of the part.

The French automobile manufacturer Renault is already using the new conductive "Noryl" GTX instead of standard material in the manufacture of its Megane Scenic. Press release: The first plastic fender in the world which is mounted during production of this model can now be painted without a conductive primer, thereby eliminating a substantial cost factor. "Renault is currently producing more than 4,500 of this model per week; an increase in capacity to 6,000 per week is planned by the end of the year."

READER SERVICE: Technical information with specifications for "Noryl GTX 974" for automobile fenders (in several languages): PIE-No. 41170.