BASF SE has presented prototypes of the world’s first particle foam based on polyethersulfone (PESU), after two years of intensive research. The foam is characterized by its unique combination of properties: high-temperature resistance, inherent flame retardancy – and its extreme light weight coupled with great stiffness and strength. It is therefore particularly well suited for complex-shaped components in cars, airplanes and trains, which require excellent mechanical properties together with the ability to withstand high operating temperatures or to meet stringent flame-retardant requirements. The expandable PESU granulate is pre-foamed into beads with low densities between 40 and 120 g/L… Read More
Phosphoric Acid, also known as orthophosphoric acid, is a mineral and weak acid with chemical formula H3PO4. In terms of production value, Phosphoric Acid is the inorganic acid produced and consumed in the highest amount. In terms of volume, it is the second-most produced and consumed inorganic acid, after sulfuric acid. The leading use of phosphoric acid is in the manufacture of phosphate chemicals. Phosphoric acid can be produced by two commercial methods: wet process and thermal process. Wet process phosphoric acid is used in fertilizer production. Thermal process phosphoric acid is of higher purity and it is used in the manufacture of high-grade chemicals, pharmaceuticals, detergents, food products, beverages and other non-fertilizer products. Read More
Industry Insights: The India polyurethane (PU) synthetic (artificial) leather market size was valued at $3.97 billion in 2016. It is witnessing augmented demand from applications in automotive and footwear industries. It is also used as an alternative to genuine leather, a factor that is significantly propelling its demand. Certain drawbacks of genuine leather, such as sticky feel and texture, are restraining its demand, paving the way for PU artificial leather. Surge in middle-class population, coupled with rising disposable income, is likely to present favorable opportunities for players in the local market. Another factor propelling its growth is low manufacturing cost as compared to natural leather. Read More
Isopropanol has gained immense significance as an effective solvent across various industrial sectors in light of its complete miscibility in most of the solvents including water. Isopropanol has been deemed as an accurate solvent for compounds such as natural & epoxy resins, alkaloids, ethyl cellulose, and essential oils. Fast evaporating property of isopropanol that leaves zero oil traces, and its lower toxicity, coupled with the estimated future phase out of ethanol will continue to augur well for its market growth in the near future. On account of its miscibility in non-polar solvents, isopropanol has gained traction as an essential prerequisite for cleaning pores present in electronic components. Read More
