Eastman launches new Reactol polymer for aerospace industry
24 Aug 2000
Eastman Chemical Company has launched Reactol PE125, a polyester resin with high impact and chemical resistance designed for two-component aerospace coatings.
Developed specifically to meet the requirements of the aerospace industry, Reactol PE125 combines the flexibility of polyester with the impact and chemical resistance found in Reactol acrylic resins.
According to Jon Lawniczak, market manager of coatings specialty polymers, the aerospace coatings market requires polymers that are strong and resistant to chemicals. Aircraft and space vehicles, subject to extreme temperature fluctuations, require a flexible polymer, such as polyester, that also demonstrates high resistance to lubricating fluids and other commonly used aerospace chemicals.
Reactol PE125 is the first polyester-based resin in the Reactol product line that resulted from Eastman's acquisition of Lawter International, Inc. in June of 1999. Lawter manufactures specialty polymers that enhance the performance of coatings and inks. Lawter, which established the Reactol brand, had developed and tested these high performance polymers that Eastman now commercialises, thus bringing new business opportunities for premium polymers.
Lawniczak points out that the characteristics of Reactol PE125 can be used in other industries where coatings are exposed to fluctuating environmental conditions such as the appliance industry.
Reactol will be available worldwide this autumn. Initial production is underway in the US with anticipated expansion to North America and Europe.
On the web at www.eastman.com
