Grafe (Blankenhain / Germany; www.grafe.com) will be introducing two new PP compounds at the upcoming “Fakuma” trade fair (www.fakuma-messe.de), held in Friedrichshafen / Germany from 13-17 October. The first, an electrically conductive and halogen-free flame-retarded compound is characterised not only by good mechanical features and flow properties, but is also conductive and flame-retardant. The compound’s volume or surface resistivity can be adjusted according to customer needs, with the possibility of settings below 100 Ohm. The PP compound meets the requirements of flammability rating UL94 V-0 for wall thicknesses of up to 1.6 mm, the company said, adding that this makes it particularly suitable for applications requiring fire and explosion protection. Potential end uses include containers used to transport highly inflammable media as well as conveyor belts and storage containers used in explosion and fire protection areas.

The second PP compound is halogen-free and flame-retarded and available in a range of colours. It meets the requirements of flammability rating UL94 V-0 even for thin walls, of up to about 0.8 mm, Grafe said. The grade minimises the loss of mechanical properties that flame retardants might cause, the company said, adding that this is especially important with regard to avoiding the embrittlement of the plastic. The material is said to display good flow properties and is thus suitable for thin-walled parts.