Major ABS specialist to make its K debut

Elix Polymers will make its first appearance at the triennial K show in Düsseldorf this October (19-26). But while the name is new, the company's heritage is measured in decades. A specialist in production of ABS and SAN polymers, high performance compounds, polymer blends and also polymer modifiers, its lineage includes such illustrious names as Bayer, Lanxess and Ineos.

Now owned by Sun Capital Partners, Elix Polymers has since gone through a radical reorganisation to emerge as a highly successful supplier to major customers around the world. The company operates out of the largest chemical park in Spain (in Tarragona), with the third largest ABS production site in Europe, and with five ABS compounding lines producing over 40 specialty grades with more than 300 colour options.

Elix Polymers also has an unmatched service portfolio, highly appreciated by customers for its short lead times, comprehensive problem-solving capabilities, flexibility and reliability. The company sells into multiple end-user markets, notably automotive, healthcare devices, appliances, household appliances, consumer goods, and building & construction.

At K 2016, Elix Polymers will put the spotlight on new material innovations and markets. With a strong emphasis on product differentiation that makes it stand out from suppliers of commodity ABS products, R&D projects ongoing or in completion at Elix Polymers cover, among others:

• grades with extra-low volatiles (already commercial);
• high-heat ABS for automotive applications (currently being launched onto the European market);
• a new generation of metal platable grades of ABS that will reinforce the company's market leading position in this market (introduced at this year’s VDI-K Plastics in Automotive Engineering congress in Mannheim, Germany);
• blends of ABS with biopolymers and natural fibres (advanced development).

Development work that Elix Polymers has carried out on ABS compounds containing natural fibres was recognized earlier this year by industry consultant Frost & Sullivan, who honoured the company with its New Product Innovation Award. Elix Eco ABS-NF fulfils some of the most demanding requirements of the automotive industry, and offers mechanical properties that are equal to or better than traditional glass fibre reinforced ABS.

Elix Polymers is now looking to expand its presence abroad. A new subsidiary, Elix Americas LLC, has just been established and speedy delivery of materials across the continent is ensured via new warehousing. North American plastics processors can now obtain its advanced ABS locally, backed by local commercial support.