Covestro AG, Germany’s leading polymer company, and Nanodax Co., Ltd., developer of glass wool reinforced resins, have signed an agreement for the development of innovative polycarbonate composites reinforced with glass wool.

Tokyo-based Nanodax has developed a special process for the manufacture of these products. Conventionally, glass fibres are used for reinforcing thermoplastics such as polycarbonate. However, the new technology developed by Nanodax and their know-how enabled the use of glass wool as reinforcing filler for plastics. It has a small diameter and is more flexible than glass fibres. Covestro has comprehensive expertise in their processing and application. Both companies see good prospects for future use of the reinforced plastics in automotive, IT and electronics applications, according to a press release.

The joint development work will be performed primarily at Covestro’s Polymer Research & Development Centre (PRDC) in Shanghai, China.

Dr. Michael Schmidt, head of business development for polycarbonates Asia Pacific at Covestro said, “We welcome the opportunity to work with Nanodax to advance such an exciting compound technology. Our development cooperation is targeting diverse application areas for polycarbonates reinforced with glass wool, and will open up new prospects for both companies. In particular, we are aiming at advantages in surface appearance and material processing. Cost reductions for customers are expected through an optimised injection moulding manufacturing process.”

Nanodax chairman and executive director Masanori Fujita said, “Together with Covestro, we aim to introduce our new materials and new technology to the global market. We value the global presence and technical expertise of our partner.” (GK)