Solvay has unveiled a new high-performance polyester compound that delivers higher heat and light stability than competitive materials for light-emitting diode (LED) televisions. The new class of compounds – offered under the Lavanta tradename – is an extension of Solvay’s high-performance polyester line which includes materials like Xydar liquid crystal polymer (LCP) for electronic components such as connectors.“Our new class of high-performance polyesters are a unique alternative that meets increasingly stricter industry requirements including higher heat resistance, greater light stability, and longer life,” said Glenn Cupta, global business development manager for electrical/electronics for Solvay Specialty Polymers. Solvay has more than 20 years of compound formulation experience for the LED market. “This new material is a natural progression for our company due to our broad understanding of industry requirements and how polymers and additives interact to meet evolving needs,” explained Cupta.
Cupta noted the growing trend among television manufacturers to use fewer LEDs to reduce cost. This is accomplished by sending higher amperage (current) through the LED, resulting in significantly higher junction temperatures above 100°C (212°F) and greater brightness. Previously used materials are unable to withstand the higher heat and light output, discoloring prematurely in applications such as reflector cups.
The first grade in the series, Lavanta 5115 WH 011, is a 15% glass fiber-reinforced injection molding compound developed specifically for LED electronic packaging applications that utilize surface mount technology. The material has high reflectivity (greater than 95%) with excellent whiteness retention even after thermal and light aging. This gives it excellent reliability for LEDs that operate at high junction temperatures.
Lavanta 5115 WH 011 can fill very thin-walled sections required for low-profile, side-view LEDs. It also has excellent dimensional stability due to its low moisture absorption and exceptional weld line strength.
In the near future, Solvay plans to expand the Lavanta product series with an enhanced version with even greater heat and light stability for longer product life and reliability. In addition to LED TV applications, the material is targeted for general lighting for indoor and outdoor applications.
