Solvay Advanced Polymers Llc today announced the introduction of a new low colour grade of Udel polysulphone.

This new grade, designated Udel P-1700 HC, is nearly water white in colour and approaches the clarity of polycarbonate. The material's low colour combined with its hydrolytic stability and resistance to heat and chemicals provides a level of performance that was previously unavailable with high-clarity plastics.

Polysulphone has long been known for its transparency and clarity, but has been somewhat limited by a slight yellowness that is characteristic of the material. Udel P-1700 HC virtually eliminates the yellow cast and provides improved aesthetics for applications where yellowness is undesirable. It also allows for more flexibility in designs that require high clarity or bright colours, which previously were not possible with polysulph one.

Typical applications for Udel P-1700 HC include face shields, protective eye wear, dairy equipment, sight glasses, appliance components, food and beverage service, tableware, and lighting components, such as lenses and covers for residential or commercial applications where temperature requirements approach 149C (300F).

Udel P-1700 HC is the lowest colour grade of polysulphone produced commercially today, according to Doug Brademeyer, sulphone polymers global business manager for Solvay Advanced Polymers. 'About three years ago, we saw a rising unmet need for a higher performing, high-clarity polymer,' added Brademeyer. 'Solvay Advanced Polymers developed Udel P-1700 HC to meet that need.'

Udel polysulphone is a tough, rigid, high-strength thermoplastic with a heat deflection temperature of 174C (345F). It is suitable for continuous use up to 149C (300F) and maintains its properties over a wide temperature range. The material is resistant to oxidation and hydrolysis and withstands prolonged exposure to high temperature and repeated sterilisation.

In addition, it is highly resistant to mineral acids, alkali and salt solutions. Udel polysulphone can be processed using standard methods for injection moulding, extrusion, and blow moulding. Film and sheet can be thermoformed on conventional equipment. It works well with most post-fabrication operations such as ultrasonic welding, adhesive bonding, laser marking, heat staking, threading and machining.

In general, Udel polysulphone complies with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifications and European Economic Community (EEC) directives concerning the use of plastics in direct food contact. The material is approved by the NSF and by the 3-A Sanitary Standards of the Dairy Association.