US speciality chemicals company Eastman Chemical (Kingsport, Tennessee / USA; www.eastman.com) has launched “Treva”, a new cellulose-based thermoplastic that it claims is both highly durable and environmentally sustainable.

Announcing the development at the recent "Chinaplas" (www.chinaplasonline.com) trade fair in Guangzhou / China – see Plasteurope.com of 24.05.2017 – Burt Capel, vice president and general manager of Eastman’s Specialty Plastics business unit, said Treva offers good chemical resistance and end-use performance, while retaining design and brand flexibility. The material is composed of around 50% cellulose, sourced from trees derived exclusively from sustainably managed forests that are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The new compound is both BPA-free and phthalate-free.

End uses include eyeglass frames, wearable electronics, headphones and many other personal devices that come into direct contact with the skin; electronic display applications, such as lenses and covers; automotive interior components where chemical resistance and aesthetics are desirable; and what Eastman called “other demanding applications with high sustainability and safety requirements”.