DSM Engineering Plastics (DSM) has launched Arnitel® Eco in 2010. This innovative thermoplastic elastomer is partially made from rapeseed oil. By switching over to Arnitel Eco from petrochemical-based TPC elastomers that helps end-users reduce their carbon footprint. Innovation and environmental performance has been noticed and the Frost & Sullivan Green Excellence in Product Innovation Award was granted.“This innovative and more sustainable partly bio-based thermoplastic copolyester elastomer (TPC) offers superior performance characteristics,” notes Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Deepan Kannan. “It is set to meet the increasing demand for more environment-friendly materials in a range of end-user applications.”
Although designed for several applications including automotive interiors, food packaging, sports and leisure, furniture, consumer electronics and alternative energy, Arnitel Eco is currently used commercially for high temperature ovenable pan liners. A carbon footprint reduction of nearly 65 per cent was achieved after Arnitel® Eco application in M&Q Packaging Corporation’s PanSaver ECO®.
In addition to offering a more sustainable solution through Arnitel Eco, DSM has gone the extra mile to design a product that overcomes some of the challenges associated with conventional equivalents. For instance, TPC elastomers possess low UV resistance. In contrast, Arnitel Eco exhibits higher UV resistance, owing to its unique formulation. It also offers better heat resistance.
“The resultant plastic thus possesses a high melting point and is suitable for applications at temperatures of even 200 degrees celsius,” elaborates Kannan. “Arnitel Eco can also be used at high temperatures for an extended period of time as it possesses superior thermo-oxidative resistance.”
Achieving a reduced carbon footprint through its bio-based products is an integral part of DSM’s business strategies. In the past, the company has revolutionised the engineering plastics and composite resins market by launching more eco-friendly products such as EcoPaXX™ and Palapreg® ECO.
DSM is also engaged in the manufacture of bio-based alternatives for the basic chemicals sector. The joint venture with Roquette to produce bio-succinic acid is aimed at producing environment-friendly, bio- based base chemicals. The company also has a leading position in second generation bio-fuels.
“The company’s ‘green’ commitment is exhibited not only by its bio-based products, but also by its range of more eco-efficient solutions, its drive to reduce the use of hazardous substances and its commitment to recycling and Cradle-to-Cradle,” remarks Kannan. “Arnitel Eco, in addition to being partly bio-based, has received the Cradle to Cradle® Silver certification from McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry.”
As recipient of the Frost & Sullivan Green Excellence in Product Innovation Award, DSM is acknowledged for its exceptionally environment-friendly product profile and business commitment as well as its demonstration of environmental accountability.
Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognise companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research in order to identify best practices in the industry.
