Polyamide specialist Invista (Wichita, Kansas / USA; www.invista.com) has launched a new range of transparent polymers that can also be used as blend additives to improve the performance of traditional nylon. The company said the new “Novadyn” materials are versatile semi-aromatic PAs that are cost effective and have a recycled content of at least 45%.

Novadyn DT/DI is made from “Dytek” A amine, PTA and purified isophthalic acid (PIA), while Novadyn DT is made from Dytek A amine and PTA. Dytek A amine is a monomer that is used in many speciality nylons and is manufactured from recovered and refined materials.

"We designed Novadyn DT/DI PA for transparent applications where PC struggles with chemical resistance or where more costly transparent polymers may be over-specified," said Allen Reihman, director of new business development at Invista. When used as a blend additive for traditional nylons, Novadyn DT/DI PA improves conditioned mechanical properties of PA 6.6 and PA 6, including up to 43% improvement in conditioned flexural strength and stiffness, according to Invista. "In humid environments, Novadyn PAs can boost traditional nylon properties, enable thinner parts and enhance light-weighting initiatives," added Reihman.

Novadyn DT/DI and Novadyn DT PAs can also be used to modify crystallinity and boost glass transition temperature. They are suitable for moulding, film, filament and fibre processing and can be used in applications including automotive, electrical, industrial and consumer products.