A "smart molecule" for self-reinforcement

At K 2016 Solvay launched Technyl REDx, a new heat performance polyamide 6.6 (PA66) integrating a unique “smart molecule” self-reinforcement technology. This innovative material, which builds on Solvay Engineering Plastics’ proven heat performance expertise, outperforms conventional specialty polymers in demanding thermal management systems, especially in the automotive industry.

“Today, more than 12 million engines use Technyl heat performance technologies. Our materials enable car manufacturers to overcome engine downsizing constraints, such as greatly increased temperatures and pressures”, says James Mitchell, Global Automotive Market director for Solvay Engineering Plastics. “There is a need for new material solutions which resist the higher continuous heat stress of new generation engines without compromising on costs and performance”.

To address this challenge, Solvay developed Technyl REDx, a smart molecule material including a patented self-strengthening technology present in the polymer chain without affecting its structure. This brand new technology remains inactive during injection moulding of car parts, leaving the material behaving like a high-flow PA66. During the vehicle’s use, the elevated temperatures activate the smart technology, leading to rapid cross-linking that boosts the mechanical properties far beyond their initial values.

Technyl REDx can be processed at energy-saving mould temperatures below 100°C, allowing simple and cost efficient manufacturing. Ageing tests over 3,000 hours at 220°C demonstrate very high retention property as well as tensile property gain of more than 50 percent, without degradation of elongation at break.

“By providing long-term thermal stability, superior processability and excellent surface aspect, Technyl REDx opens up completely new possibilities for high-heat applications with lower material and manufacturing costs”, explains Antoine Guiu, Technyl REDx project leader. “Intrinsically heat-friendly, Technyl REDx eliminates the need for heat shields that may be required when using conventional materials”.

Solvay’s Technyl product range helps meet growing demand for downsized engines that continue to offer lightweighting performance and power output. Its metal replacement capabilities, offering fire, thermal and chemical protection, help the automotive industry to continuously reduce vehicle’s ecological footprint and CO2 emissions.

The company supports customers with a complete array of technical services designed to speed the time to market of new applications, from advanced material characterization to application validation. This offering includes 3D printing of PA6-based functional prototypes in Sinterline PA6 powders, predictive simulation with MMI Technyl Design as well as part testing at fully equipped APT Technyl validation centres.