Saudi petrochemicals and plastics giant Sabic (Riyadh; www.sabic.com) has launched a PC-based copolymer resin, which, it claims, is suitable for photovoltaic connectors for use in more demanding, 1.5 kilovolt solar panel systems.

The specialty high-performance resin also delivers low-temperature impact down to -40C, good weatherability, dimensional stability, heat resistance and meets the UL94VO standard for flame retardance at 1.2 mm.

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The new grade is an alternative to glass-reinforced polyamide, polyphenylene ether, and standard polycarbonate, where it offers cost-effective design flexibility and the processing efficiency of an injection moulding thermoplastic, said Sabic.

The LNP EXL9334P achieves a high Comparative Tracking Index level of UL PLC0 and meets the International Electrotechnical Commission standard organisation’s Material Group 1 standard for electrotechnology, being able to withstand 1,500-volt systems without breaking down, according to Sabic. Stricter performance and regulatory requirements accompany the transition in PV components from 1.0 to 1.5 Kv systems.