Huntsman Unveils Innovative Polyurethane Material

Innovative Polyurethane Material from Huntsman Huntsman announced the development of innovative polyurethane, carbon nanotube and epoxy materials, all designed to improve the integration of batteries into electric vehicles and to enhance battery protection and performance. Huntsman has built a portfolio consisting of customizable, fast-curing, high-strength polyurethane and epoxy resins that can be used to create underbody and top cover battery structures, in a move that helps deliver high-performance composite battery structures alongside design and manufacturing flexibility. These products can reduce total component weight and increase strength and structural performance. Targeting underbody battery protection, Huntsman introduced the RIMLINE® WCM system, a low-viscosity liquid resin that enables molding of high fiber volume fraction composites under low pressure. Balancing short cure times with long working life and easy mold separation, this system can help reduce overall cycle times and is formulated for use in high-pressure mixing machines. Targeting underbody battery protection, Huntsman developed three products: RIMLINE® FC, RIMLINE® LFI and ARALDITE® 3031 / 3032 WCM.   The RIMLINE® FC (foam core) system offers a cost-effective solution for the production of sandwich composites. This lightweight system has excellent flow properties that can help create complex 3D shapes. This system also typically adheres well to different top molding materials and cures quickly for rapid cycle times. The RIMLINE® LFI (long fiber injection) resin system can be molded into strong rigid parts with a density of 1100 kg/m3, including 30% glass fiber reinforcement. The ARALDITE® 3031 / 3032 WCM system has proven to combine exceptional mechanical properties and hardness with the fastest processing cure time. Targeting top cover applications, the VITROX® WCM system enables the development of composite cover structures that can help achieve thermal resistance while reducing weight compared to metallic cover alternatives; and ARALDITE® SMC solutions provide part design freedom for semi-structural applications and requirements. Huntsman has also developed a range of materials in electric vehicle battery cells that help with thermal, vibration and structural protection alongside lightweighting and improved conductivity. Irina Bolshakova, Global Strategic Marketing Leader, Automotive Polyurethanes at Huntsman, said: "As demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, we are continuously innovating to make it easier for battery manufacturers, automotive OEMs and suppliers to achieve new gains in drivetrain performance." Source