A new IC-105 coating reflects heat from a 600°F heat source, keeping the substrate, Amodel polyphalamide (PPA), at around 400°F. The nearly 200°F differential is significant for plastics such as PPA used in automotive powertrain components. At temperatures approaching 500°F, PPA and other polymers, including nylon, begin to degrade. The coating may let PPA be used in higher-temperature applications, not only as an aluminum replacement, but also as an alternative to other more costly polymers such as polyetheretherkeytone.
Solvay Advanced Polymers LLC, 1200 Harmon Rd., Auburn Hills, MI 48326, (248) 391-9500, solvayadvancedpolymers.com