Solvay and Zotefoams Collaborate
Solvay and Zotefoams sign long-term supply agreement for advanced cellular material solutions in aerospace based on Solef® PVDF. Collaboration opens exciting new perspectives in weight reduction and noise & vibration management for aircraft cabin interiors.
Solvay, a leading global provider of polymer and composite materials, and Zotefoams, the largest manufacturer of lightweight cross-linked polyolefin block foams and a specialist in technical foams, have entered into a long-term supply agreement for Solef® polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), an advanced cellular material solution for aerospace applications.
This collaboration aims to explore new possibilities in weight reduction and noise and vibration management for aircraft cabin interiors.
Under the agreement, Solvay will supply Zotefoams with Solef® PVDF, which will be used in the production of Zotefoams' ZOTEK® F high-performance closed-cell crosslinked aerospace foam range.
The collaboration will focus on various interior applications in the aerospace industry, including ducting, carpet underlay, environmental control systems, and insulation. These applications require materials that are lightweight, highly flame retardant, and cost-effective to process.
"This agreement marks the beginning of a collaborative partnership centered around supply security, quality, and innovation," says Marc Doyle, Executive Vice President for Aerospace & Defense of Solvay Materials Business.
"By leveraging Solef® PVDF, this collaboration opens up exciting possibilities for reducing weight and managing noise and vibration in aircraft interior components. It expands the reach of our polymers into yet another demanding market segment. We are thrilled to partner with Zotefoams to help the aircraft industry achieve its ambitious environmental and sustainability goals."
Solef® PVDF is inherently flame retardant and offers a high level of purity, robust mechanical properties, electrochemical stability, and broad chemical resistance at high temperatures.
This specialty polymer has already demonstrated its success in various markets, including the rapidly growing automotive lithium-ion battery sector. As a lightweight closed-cell cross-linked foam, it can deliver weight savings of up to 70% in aircraft interiors while meeting stringent aerospace standards.
"PVDF foam is an ideal material for a wide range of air and spacecraft interior applications, and we are pleased that this agreement ensures a secure supply for our customers, particularly during uncertain times," comments James Bridges, Director of High-Performance Products at Zotefoams.
"With the commercial aviation sector striving to meet stringent carbon reduction targets, the lightweighting capabilities of ZOTEK F are in high demand. Therefore, the timing of our partnership announcement with Solvay couldn't be better. We look forward to collaborating and exploring new possibilities with cellular materials based on Solef® PVDF."
Solef® PVDF is manufactured to the same standards of purity and consistency at Solvay's facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia, ensuring a high level of global supply security. It is available worldwide, supporting the needs of customers across the globe.
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