BP To Launch Next Generation Self-Reinforced Composites
19-Mar-2001
BP is to launch a new generation of formable, self-reinforced
thermoplastic sheet composites under the trademark “Curv”.
Curv self-reinforced polypropylene can be thermoformed, stamped or
compression moulded to make parts with exceptional mechanical
properties including unprecedented impact resistance and cold
weather performance. In combination with other materials, such as
polypropylene foams and honeycombs, ultra-lightweight laminates
can also be produced which demonstrate high levels of stiffness and
the added advantage of total recyclability
Curv is produced by a unique technology, known as hot compaction
and originally developed at the University of Leeds, whereby highly
oriented, high modulus thermoplastic fibres are heat-treated to melt a
small fraction of the skin from each individual fibre. On cooling, the
melted material bonds the fibres into a thick homogeneous sheet
which retains the high mechanical performance of the original fibres
and can be thermoformed into parts over a wide temperature range.
First production of Curv self-reinforced polypropylene sheet is
expected to be fully commissioned in 2001 at BP’s site at Gronau,
Germany. BP is now making samples of the new material available
for application testing.
Applications for Curv include automotive parts, personal protective
equipment, sports goods, audio equipment, consumer goods and
appliances as well as building materials.
Work recently completed with automotive manufacturers suggests
Curv has great potential in a range of automotive applications with an
emphasis on improved mechanical properties, reduced weight and
enhanced recyclability. Manufacturers and suppliers are now
evaluating Curv in a number of upcoming models.
Paul Dejonckheere, head of BP’s plastics Fabrication Group said:
“Curv represents a new generation of versatile, formable, lightweight
composites with superior impact strength and recyclability. It will
enable users to redefine composite design capabilities. The
production of Curv at our facility in Gronau represents a significant
capital investment, demonstrating our commitment to the site’s core
competencies and our determination to remain at the forefront of new
technologies.”
In January 2001, BP announced that it intends to seek offers for the
Plastic Fabrications Group, including the Gronau site. Commenting on
this, Dejonckheere said: “BP’s strategic decision to sell our
fabrications portfolio in no way undermines the launch of Curv. We
believe the potential of this first class technology will be rapidly
fulfilled, with BP and also under new ownership.”
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