Long fiber thermoplastic (LFT) compound supplier PlastiComp (Winona, MN) has developed what it describes as a breakthrough product in the form of a long-fiber reinforced compound that is translucent.
The new compound is based on a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). “Molded structural parts with translucent qualities lead to unique applications that require strength and optical transparency,” notes Raj Mathur, Vice President & Director, Technology & Business Development at PlastiComp.
This patent-pending TPU based product can revolutionize structural parts where see-through quality or contact transparency imparts added functionality, according to PlastiComp. When molded, compounds containing 20-40 weight % long glass-fibers, are reportedly smooth and translucent, while still maintaining the mechanical properties of astandard long glass reinforced thermoplastic compounds.
These translucent TPU compounds reportedly offer advantages in medical devices, pumps, filters, power tools, sporting equipment, or anything requiring a see-through part-section.
SOURCE : http://www.plasticstoday.com/articles/lft-compound-transparent
