Adhesives & Sealants Industry January 2012

January 2012 • Volume 19, Issue 1 • www.adhesivesmag.com

❯ Self-Adhesive Electronics ❯ Hydrogenated Resins

Scan the mobile tag for direct access to all of ASI’s content online! Get the free mobile app at http://gettag.mobi

A Simple Suggestion to Help You Squeeze More Profit Out of Every Cartridge

Get Rid of the Cartridge Poly-clip introduces a low-cost alternative to expensive cans and pre-formed single-use cartridges. The Poly-clip foil-pack tube for lubricants, adhesives and sealants. And, because one roll of film makes thousands of tubes it offers a consistently better seal with lower equipment, materials and maintenance costs than vertical tube forming systems and heat seal closures.

Environmentally conscious consumers will appreciate the fact that an empty tube is less than 8% the size of an empty cartridge

Poly-Clip System 1000 Tower Road, Mundelein, IL 6006 s Phone (847) 949-280 s Fax (847) 949-2815 Email: [email protected] s 1-800-usa-clip (800)872-2547 s Visit our website: www.polyclip.com

% &"!&#&% &%$&#$!#&"$& %&#&"&#!$"# &&!%&&""%&$!"%" $

Breaking the viscosity barrier – with our patented HV Blades. A Ross Double Planetary Mixer with HV Blades can handle viscosities far beyond the limits of any ordinary planetary mixer – and often eliminates the need for a costly double-arm mixer.

Scan to learn more. Free Tag Reader: http://gettag.mobi

& #
$&&!%& &%&!$&% !& %&#&%$ #&"$

$!&#"%#$&%$&!&!$&#%"% &!%$ #" & "%# %$&$ %$
&& #+'%*'+)&+  %#$+$&+ +(""&#'+&''+&*)'+!%! *)&)(# *+"(#*$()+%*)'+#*(*)+ $)*)' %' !()*+'$*'+(# &)$(
"*+*''*"'+&) %)$(""+(""+!%!%' &'%$ ("% ($%&#'

&"!&#" &#% *()#+!&+$&+(*+&)+!%!%' &'%$+%%#+)& *''+ &)*+*% %*#$+ (""+#&+$&+())(#*+(+#& !()*+$*'$+&)+$)%(" )*#$("+%#+&)+"(#$  &&&&%$!

Learning opportunities include: Dynamic speakers and specialized sessions focus on a broader range of functional expertise.

t

,FZOPUF
4FTTJPOT
XJUI
JOEVTUSZ
FYQFSUT
BOE
DVTUPNFS
JOTJHIUT t

&EVDBUJPOBM
USBDLT

UPQJDT
UBSHFUJOH
TQFDJýD
NBSLFU
ESJWFST

#VTJOFTT
%FWFMPQNFOU
BOE
.BSLFU
5SFOET

3BX
.BUFSJBM
%FWFMPQNFOU

/PO8PWFOT
.BSLFU
GPS
"EIFTJWFT

5FDIOJDBM(PWFSONFOU
3FHVMBUJPOT

&OE
6TFST
'PDVT

(SFFO
$IFNJTUSZ
(MPCBM
0JM
$POEJUJPOT
BOE
/FX
5FDIOPMPHZ"QQMJDBUJPO t

8BUFSCPSOF
"EIFTJWFT
4IPSU
$PVSTF
"QSJM
UI


-FBSO
GSPN
FYQFSUT
JO
UIF
ýFME
BCPVU
8BUFSCPSOF
"EIFTJWFT
NBSLFUT
SBX
NBUFSJBMT
EJTQFSTJPOT

IBSEFOFST
UBDLJýFST
QMBTUJDJ[FST
IZCSJET
QSPEVDUJPO
FRVJQNFOU

BOE
FOE
VTFS
PQQPSUVOJUJFT
BOE
JTTVFT


%FTJHOFE
GPS
UFDIOJDBM
BOE
TBMFTNBSLFUJOH
TUBGG
JO
UIF
JOEVTUSZ

OP
BEWBODFE
LOPXMFEHF
JT
SFRVJSFE

Discover the latest products, services and innovations at the ASC EXPO on April 16th.

Attendees consistently rank the ASC Convention & EXPO as their PRIMARY place to meet and network with industry professionals.

t

7JTJU
XJUI
SBX
NBUFSJBMT
BOE
TFSWJDF
TVQQMJFST
EFWFMPQNFOU
QBSUOFST
BOE
EJTUSJCVUPST t


4QFBL
XJUI
FYIJCJUPST
BCPVU
ZPVS
TQFDJýD
OFFET
BOE
DIBMMFOHFT t

7JFX
QSPEVDU
TBNQMFT
EJTDPWFS
OFX
TFSWJDFT
BOE
DPMMFDU
JOGPSNBUJPO
GPS
DVSSFOU
BOE
GVUVSF
QSPKFDUT

&YQBOE
ZPVS
OFUXPSL
BOE
NFFU
IVOESFET
PG
JOEVTUSZ

FYQFSUT

DPMMFBHVFT
BU
UIFTF
OFUXPSLJOH
PQQPSUVOJUJFT t

"4$T
HSPVQ
PVUJOH
JO
%FOWFS t


'JSTUUJNF
BUUFOEFFT
BOE
OFX
NFNCFST
SFDFQUJPOT t

4VOEBZ
XFMDPNF
SFDFQUJPO
BOE
5VFTEBZ
DMPTJOH
SFDFQUJPO t


-VODI
BOE
TJEF
NFFUJOHT
XJUI
DPMMFBHVFT t

"4$
&910
BOE
&910
SFDFQUJPO

IN THIS ISSUE ADHESIVES & SEALANTS INDUSTRY, VOLUME 19, NUMBER 1

17 20 24

28

DEPARTMENTS

RECYCLE OR REPLACE? Reusing disposable syringes and accessories can have negative effects.

6

Editor’s Memo

8

Company News

A NEW BUSINESS APPROACH

11

People

13

Calendar

HYDROGENATED DCPD-BASED RESINS FOR SBC-BASED HOT-MELT PSAs

14

Advancing Adhesives: BASF

Hydrogenated dicyclopentadiene resins affect adhesive performance used as tackifiers in styrene block copolymer-based hot-melt pressure-sensitive adhesives.

15

Advancing Adhesives: National Science Foundation

23

Focus On: Wacker

42

Product Spotlight: APS

43

What’s New

44

Services Marketplace

The America Invents Act will drastically change the way patents and trade secrets are handled.

45

Classifieds

46

Ask Dr. Dave

NATIONAL STANDARDS: HELPING TO GREEN COMPANIES AND PRODUCTS

46

Ad Index

A changing economy, new industry regulations and globalization trends require a new way of doing business.

20

FIBER GLASS-REINFORCED POLYCARBONATE COMPOUNDS Fiber glass-filled formulations of HFD copolymers result in improved visual appearance and higher surface gloss in injection molded parts.

33 36

KEEP THAT LABORATORY NOTEBOOK!

An independent public health and environmental organization is helping to set the sustainability standard.

38

36

PLANNING FOR PRODUCTIVITY Manufacturers can use technology to help weather the economic downturn. January 2012 • Volume 19, Issue 1 • www.adhesivesmag.com

40

PREVENTING HEARING LOSS Occupational hearing loss costs workplaces an average of $242 million a year in workers’ compensation claims alone.

❯ Self-Adhesive Electronics ❯ Hydrogenated Resins

Scan the mobile tag for direct access to all of ASI’s content online! Get the free mobile app at http://gettag.mobi

Cover.indd 1

12/14/11 11:29 AM

ON THE COVER: Photo courtesy of Techcon Systems.

FOR SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS, CONTACT: Customer Service: (847) 763-9534 ADHESIVES & SEALANTS INDUSTRY (ISSN 1070-9592) is published 12 times annually, monthly, by BNP Media, 2401 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 700, Troy, MI 48084-3333. Telephone: (248) 362-3700, Fax: (248) 362-0317. No charge for subscriptions to qualified individuals. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in the U.S.A.: $178.00 USD. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in Canada: $216.00 USD (includes GST & postage); all other countries: $228.00 (Int’l mail) payable in U.S. funds. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright 2012, by BNP Media. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for product claims and representations. Periodicals Postage Paid at Troy, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: ADHESIVES & SEALANTS INDUSTRY, P.O. Box 2148, Skokie, IL 60076. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. GST account: 131263923. Send returns (Canada) to Pitney Bowes, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON, N6C 6B2.Change of address: Send old address label along with new address to ADHESIVES & SEALANTS INDUSTRY, P.O. Box 2148, Skokie, IL 60076. For single copies or back issues: contact Ann Kalb at (248) 244-6499 or [email protected].

January 2012

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

Audited by BPA Worldwide.

|

5

®

EDITOR'S MEMO www.adhesivesmag.com

PERSISTENCE I’m a huge fan of professional soccer, particularly the Barclay’s Premier League (BPL) in England. I follow a couple of Major League Soccer teams here in the U.S., but the amazing pace and skill of the players in the BPL makes those matches particularly exciting and fascinating to watch. The BPL season runs from August to May, and it’s around this time of year that the sheer persistence of the players is impressive. It’s mid-season, legs are tired, injuries are niggling, and it’s cold. Watching the players slog it out in the frigid and often snowy, wet conditions is truly inspiring. Even if the match isn’t going their way, it’s rare that any of these top-flight players actually give up—or even slow down. As Manchester United’s stalwart defender Rio Ferdinand has said on multiple occasions, “We never know when we’re beaten.” He’s not claiming ignorance; he means that the players work as hard as they can for the entire game, regardless of the numbers on the scoreboard. I would love to be able to say that we’re at least halfway through the economic downturn that has plagued most of the world since 2008. It seems like every time we see some good news, bad news follows right behind it. Indeed, the ongoing European debt crisis provides ups and downs on nearly a daily basis. What I can say—definitively—is that it’s truly an honor to be part of an industry that does not give up, despite harsh conditions and uncertain results. It’s inspiring to hear continued news of technology innovations, facility expansions and personnel development. And it’s exciting for all of us at ASI to be able to share this great information with you. Here’s to a great 2012!

For subscription information or service, please contact Customer Service at: Tel. (847) 763-9534 or Fax (847) 763-9538 or email [email protected] 6075 B Glick Rd., Powell, OH 43065 • 281-556-8492

PUBLISHING STAFF John Schrei, Publishing Director — 248-786-1637, [email protected] Tom Esposito, Senior Group Publisher — 610-436-4220, [email protected] Amy Vallance, Publisher — 281-256-8492, [email protected] Susan Sutton, Editor-in-Chief, Integrated Media — 330-336-4098, [email protected] Teresa McPherson, Managing Editor — 734-332-0541, [email protected] Kelsey Seidler, Associate Editor — 614-789-1881, [email protected] Lindsay Leusby, Art Director — 248-244-1735, [email protected] Kelly Southard, Production Manager — 248-244-6409, [email protected]

SALES STAFF Amy Vallance, Sales Representative Midwest, West and Southwest U.S., and Western Canada 281-256-8492, [email protected] Brandon Miller, East Coast Sales Manager Eastern U.S. and Canada, Latin America 610-436-4220 x8513, [email protected] Patrick Connolly, Sales Representative, Europe Patco Media-London, 99 Kings Road, Westcliff on Sea, Essex SSO 8PH, England 44-1702-477341, FAX 44-1702-477559, [email protected] Peg Van Winkle, Inside Sales 614-760-4222, [email protected] Christopher Wilson, BNP Custom Media Group 248-244-8264, [email protected] Kevin Collopy, Postal List Rental Manager 800-223-2194 x684, [email protected] Michael Costantino, Email List Rental Account Manager 800-223-2194 x748, [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Dave Dunn, bms North America Dan Murad, The ChemQuest Group Inc. David P. Nick, DPNA International Inc. Susan Sutton is Editor-in-Chief, Integrated Media for Adhesives & Sealants Industry and Ceramic Industry magazines. If you wish to send a letter to the editor, please email [email protected]. Letters must include the sender’s address, phone number and email address, when possible. Letters may be edited for space and clarity.

THIS MONTH ON www.adhesivesmag.com... ASI E-News Our primary goal is to help you stay informed. Toward that end, we’re increasing the frequency of the popular ASI E-News e-newsletter to twice per week. Existing subscribers will automatically begin receiving both editions each week. To sign up for a new subscription (it’s free!), simply visit www.adhesivesmag.com. Daily Updates The latest industry and company news, personnel announcements, new products, and more are updated daily. Digital Edition ASI’s digital editions are easy to read, search and download. This month’s edition is sponsored by Emerald Performance Materials.

6

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Steven Gailbreath, Arizona Chemical Richard P. Muny, Chemsultants International Network Larry Owen, Franklin International Lex Reynolds, Reynolds Glue Deborah Chrzanowski, Intertape Polymer Group and PSTC Technical Steering Committee Chair

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Kristine Wyatt , Audience Development Manager Kelly Carlson, Multimedia Specialist Catherine M. Ronan, Corporate Audience Audit Coordinator

CORPORATE DIRECTORS Publishing: John R. Schrei Corporate Strategy: Rita M. Foumia Information Technology: Scott Krywko Production: Vincent M. Miconi Finance: Lisa L. Paulus

Creative: Michael T. Powell Directories: Nikki Smith Human Resources: Marlene J. Witthoft Events: Scott Wolters Clear Seas Research: Beth A. Surowiec

BNP Media Helps People Succeed in Business with Superior Information January 2012

Semco® Packaging & Applciations Systems now offers a complete packaging system for all your solder paste needs.

Semco® Solder Paste Jars Semco® Packaging and Application Systems is proud to introduce the new Semco® Solder Paste Jar. The Semco® Solder Paste Jar is the final product to meet all your needs of Solder Paste packaging requirements and includes unique features and benefits such as:

Quarter turn lid thread design that reduces assembly labor and assures an air tight seal Lid that provides tactile feedback to signify the jar has been assembled properly Specialized rounded bottom jar design minimizes solde Compatible with industry standard viscometers and mix A variety of specialized color options Custom designs (company logos or brand identifiers) for the lid of jar are available

COMPANY NEWS A R K E M A C O AT I N G R E S I N S h a s announced the formation of a new business function dedicated to building more proactive relationships with coatings formulators and other customers. The Customer Experience Group will be responsible for quality management, as well as customer and business services. “Following the recent acquisition of coatings assets from TOTAL, we found ourselves in a more varied and complex business environment,” said Richard Jenkins, global group president. “We have more products, we have a larger customer base and we have more global presence. The Customer Experience Group is tasked with making sure we use those assets to best meet the needs of all of our customers through proactive communication and deeper relationships with formulators.” Karen Fearrington, previously Business Services manager, will lead the group in her new position as director of Customer Experience. Fearrington is responsible for developing goals and expanding resources to meet the needs outlined by both Arkema and customers. Visit www.arkemacoatingresins.com for more information. ATLAS announced that a new, oneday workshop, Sample Preparation and Evaluation, will be launched this year at the Atlas offices in Linsengericht Germany. Dates will be posted on the Atlas website. The workshop is a course designed for those who prepare, test and evaluate test samples. It will address the importance of sample selection and preparation, as well as sample replication. In addition, the workshop intends to guide laboratory staff through cleaning and visual evaluation methods. For more information, visit www.atlas-mts.com. BAYER MATERIALSCIENCE AG has signed a contract for the sale of its Viverso GmbH subsidiary to Nuplex Industries Ltd. for @75 million (~ $105 million). Viverso is a leading manufacturer of polymer resins based in New Zealand and Australia. Bayer MaterialScience will divest part of its conventional coating resins business, which does not fit the company’s current growth strategy. Bayer MaterialScience reports it is concentrating on products and areas of 8

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

APPLAUSE AVERY DENNISON RECEIVES ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP AWARD Avery Dennison’s Label and Packaging Materials Business Unit announced it has received the 2011 Environmental Leadership Award from the Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI). The award, given by the TLMI Environmental Committee, recognizes the leadership efforts of member companies that consistently demonstrate a commitment to worthy environmental practices. Avery Dennison was recognized for its environmental efforts, including reducing waste across the value chain through enterprise lean sigma (ELS); obtaining measurable environmental and economic benefits by applying lifecycle assessment (LCA) to products; creating low-waste, pressuresensitive labeling and packaging products that use thinner liner and facestock materials; developing new products that help reduce waste and enable recycling; and its next-generation adhesives and facestocks, which are compatible with both polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and glass recycling, allowing labels to be fully removed from the packaging material during the recycling process. For more information, www.averydennison.com or www.tlmi.com.

APPLAUSE NORDSON ASYMTEK RECEIVES GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY AWARD Nordson ASYMTEK announced it has received the 2011 Global Technology Award in the category of LED Production Equipment for its Spectrum™ S-922 LED jetting system for dispensing silicone. The award, presented in November at the Productronica Trade Fair in Munich, Germany, recognizes the best new innovations in the printed circuit assembly and packaging industries. This was the fourth time Nordson ASYMTEK has won a Global Technology award. Nordson ASYMTEK’s jet dispenser can enable sticky silicone phosphor to be dispensed into extremely small and hard-to-reach cavities for side-view LEDs. Silicone phosphor dispensing is critical for LED color quality. The system uses a jet for non-contact dispensing, jetting 0.1-0.2 mm dots through windows as small as 0.4 mm into LED cavities. Unlike a needle, the jet retracts much less for silicone break-off, reportedly dispensing multiple shots faster, thus increasing speed and throughput. For more information, visit www.nordson.com.

application characterized by a more pronounced innovation focus. The transaction is subject to approval by the relevant antitrust authorities. The transaction includes Viverso GmbH, including all associated plants and assets and selected product groups that Viverso currently manufactures for companies of Bayer MaterialScience under a toll manufacturing agreement. Also included in the sale are the Viverso, Roskydal ®, Alkydal ®, Tungophen ® and Resistherm ® brands. All 165 employees will transfer with the business under the same conditions. For more information, visit www.bayermaterialscience.com or www.nuplex.co.nz. CAS-MI recently announced it has been renamed EAG Coatings Solutions. This rebranding reportedly emphasizes the company’s strong commitment to coatings product development and analytical prob-

lem solving, while also reflecting its recent inclusion as one of Evans Analytical Group’s 20 worldwide laboratories. “EAG Coatings Solutions has successfully assisted entrepreneurs and international companies in product development for innovative paint and coating technologies for many years,” said Stephen C. Hall, vice president and general manager of EAG Coatings Solutions. “Our new name emphasizes both our development capabilities and our analytical support services.” For further details, visit www.eaglabs.com. CRAY VALLEY has passed all of the requirements for full certification under the American Chemistry Council’s (ACC) Responsible Care Management S y s t e m ® Te c h n i c a l S p e c i f i c a t i o n RC101.03. The independent audit was performed by Midland Engineering Ltd. Cray Valley initiated the process to January 2012

obtain its own certification after it was restructured into Cray Valley USA LLC as part of a reorganization by parent company Total in 2010. For more information, visit www.crayvalley.com.

Go to www.adhesivepackaging.com

The Performance Monomers business of THE DOW CHEMICAL CO. has announced that an incremental expansion strategy has unlocked an additional 15% of crude acrylic acid (CAA) capacity at its Deer Park, TX, facility. This capacity increase is a result of various improvement projects implemented in the CAA oxidation facility. These projects not only increased capacity, but also reportedly enhanced process safety and improved technology and reliability. For further details, visit www.dow.com. DOW CORNING CORP. announced sales of $4.91 billion and net income of $547 million through the first three quarters of 2011. Sales in the third quarter increased 10% compared to last year’s third quarter as demand continued to grow despite global economic volatility. The company reported sales of $1.66 billion for the third quarter of 2011, an increase of 10% compared to $1.51 billion in last year’s third quarter. Net income was $177 million, 1% higher than last year’s third quarter income of $176 million. Year-to-date sales were $4.91 billion, an 11% increase compared to $4.41 billion in the same period last year. Net income was $547 million, 11% lower than last year’s $615 million. For additional information, visit www. dowcorning.com. DSM COATING RESINS , a business unit of Royal DSM N.V., has outlined plans to align the organization with a sharpened strategic focus on its core coating and graphic arts resins markets. As part of these plans, the business unit aims to capture additional synergies from the merger of two business units (formerly known as DSM Powder Coating Resins and DSM NeoResins+) announced earlier this year. DSM also plans to further improve the financial performance of this newly formed business unit, which is also necessary due to the challenging economic circumstances and weak building and construction markets, especially in Europe and North America. As a result of the alignment, the number of worldwide positions at DSM Coating Resins will be reduced by 150 January 2012

We Package Quality into Every Adhesive Delivery System For 30 years, the adhesive industry has turned to APS for the highest quality in custom packaging of both single and multi-component materials. APS’ reputation and experience has set performance standards of excellence utilizing the most cost-effective solutions from one gram to a thousand grams. So, when it comes to packaging to reach a global market on time and safely, rely on APS.

APS...We Package Quality Call today for a FREE sample using your supplied material.

Corporate Headquarters

103 Foster St. Peabody, MA 01960 (800) 222-1117 (978) 531-3300 Fax: (978) 532-8901 [email protected] www.adhesivepackaging.com ISO 9001: 2000 CERTIFIED © Adhesive Packaging Specialties, 2006

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

9

COMPANY NEWS full-time employees. According to the company, this will allow it to effectively and efficiently continue to grow its position as the leading coating resins supplier for developing innovative building blocks for sustainable coating systems. Visit www.dsm.com for details. EASTMAN CHEMICAL CO. announced it has completed the expansion of its hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins facility in Middelburg, the Netherlands. The Middelburg expansion, which is the third expansion of the company’s Regalite™ hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins, has doubled capacity at the site since 2006. “We continue to see the demand of our hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins grow around the world,” said Brad Lich, vice president and general manager of the Coatings, Adhesives, Specialty Polymers and Inks business. “This expansion, in combination with our debottlenecking of Eastotac™ hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins capacity in Longview, TX, and our expansion of hydrocarbon capacity in Jefferson, PA, demonstrates our commitment to growing with our customers and to meeting demand in developing regions.” Visit www.eastman.com for more information. HENKEL announced that its third quarter sales increased 1.7% compared with the prior-year quarter to @4,028 million (~ $5,469 million). After adjusting for foreign exchange, sales improved by 5.7%. At 6.5%, organic sales, which exclude the impact of foreign exchange and acquisitions/divestments, again increased. In the first nine months of fiscal 2011, sales increased by 3.9% to @11,804 million (~ $16,027 million). After adjusting for foreign exchange, sales improved by 6.2%. At 6.6%, organic sales also rose compared to the prior-year period. The Adhesive Technologies business sector reported an increase in organic sales of 8.7% vs. the prior-year quarter, reportedly driven by both volume increases and successfully implemented price increases. Sales rose by 3.9% to @2,020 million (~ $2,742 million), thus exceeding the @2 billion mark for the first time in a quarter. For more information, visit www.henkel.com. HUNTSMAN CORP. announced that its Advanced Materials division completed 10

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

ANNOUNCEMENT UV LED CURING ASSOCIATION FORMED Phoseon Technology, Integration Technology Ltd. and Lumen Dynamics have joined together to form the UV LED Curing Association. The new association was established to address a growing need within the market for current and potential researchers, suppliers, integrators, and end users to gain a better understanding about UV LED technology and the significant benefits it brings to numerous applications. The new association is focused on providing greater insight into the various UV LED solutions currently in the marketplace, as well as developing suitable applications for the technology. The organization intends to demonstrate how system developers around the world can effectively integrate UV LED technology into applications and, where possible, achieve better efficiencies while saving costs. For more information, visit www.uvledcuring.org.

the sale of its stereolithography resin and Digitalis ® machine manufacturing businesses to 3D Systems Corp. for $41 million in cash. The stereolithography business had revenues of $7 million in 2010. Its products are used primarily in 3-D part building systems. The Digitalis business is a stereolithography rapid manufacturing system previously under development by Huntsman. For additional information, visit www. huntsman.com or www.3dsystems.com. KURARAY AMERICA INC. announced the approval of a project to increase its EVAL™ (ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer resin) production capacity by more than 17 million lbs (8,000 tons) per year at a cost of $49 million. The debottleneck of facilities at the Pasadena, TX, plant raises production capacity to 104 million lbs (47,000 tons) annually. The project will be completed by January 2014. Kuraray has manufacturing plants for EVAL resin located in Pasadena, TX; Okayama, Japan; and Antwerp, Belgium. Following the expansion, the company’s combined global capacity will reportedly be 180 million lbs (81,000 tons) per year. For more details, visit www.kuraray.com. THE LUBRIZOL CORP. recently announced it has signed an agreement to purchase Merquinsa, a leader in specialty thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs). It is expected that the acquisition will expand Lubrizol’s Engineered Polymers business and strengthen its ability to meet the needs of its global customers. Located in Barcelona, Spain, Merquinsa serves technically demanding segments of the specialty polymer market. Its products are used in applica-

tions that serve a variety of industries, including automotive, sports and leisure, furniture, and textile coatings. For more information, visit www.lubrizol.com or www.merquinsa.com. PANASONIC CORP. recently announced plans to establish a company in Malaysia that will serve as its new solar manufacturing base. Panasonic Energy Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., will operate a vertically integrated solar manufacturing facility producing wafers, cells and modules. Panasonic will invest ¥45 billion (~ $578 million) in the facility, which is expected to begin operations in December 2012 with an annual production capacity of 300 MW. Panasonic reports it will sell its solar modules as an individual product, as well as part of a system combined with storage batteries. In addition, as part of its comprehensive solutions business, which is built on capacities brought together across the Panasonic group, the company will reportedly accelerate its solar business development globally. For more details, visit www.panasonic.net. PPG INDUSTRIES recently announced that its glass and coatings were used in the headquarters building of Bioconstrucci n y Energìa Alternativa, Monterrey, Mexico, which is reportedly the first building in Latin America to earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification for New Construction, version 2.2 (LEED-NC 2.2), from the U.S. Green Building Council. The 5,000-sqft office building, located in suburban San Pedro Garza Garcia, is constructed with SOLARBAN ® 70XL and Solarban 60 glasses, and STARPHIRE® ultra-clear glass. PPG PITTSBURGH PAINTS ® January 2012

brand SPEEDHIDE ® paint was specified for the interior and exterior walls of the building, while PITT-TECH ® DTM industrial enamels were used to coat its metal beams and structures. Bioconstruccin y Energìa Alternativa is a leading company in the development and certification of green buildings in Mexico and throughout Latin America. The company’s owner, Cesar Ulises Trevino, is president of the Mexico Green Building Council. For more information, visit www.ppgideascapes.com. SIKA announced it has joined the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA), thus strengthening its position to take part in shaping European policies for the European PV industry. The EPIA is the world’s largest industry association devoted to the solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity market. The association aims to promote PV at national and European levels and to assist its members in their business development in the European Union. F o r a d d i t i o n a l d e t a i l s , v i s i t w w w. sikausa.com. SPECIALTY COATING SYSTEMS (SCS) plans to expand its parylene coating service operations into the southern U.S. with a new 13,000-sq-ft facility in Austin, TX. “The new Texas facility allows SCS to provide greater support to meet the regional needs of our ever-expanding customer base,” said Tim Bender, executive vice president of Sales and Marketing. The new coating center is expected to begin full production operations in early 2012. For further information, visit www.scscoatings.com. TRICORBRAUN has relocated its Latin American headquarters and Mexico City office to larger quarters. The new facility is more than three times larger and reportedly enables TricorBraun to add sales personnel, expand its technical services and quality assurance departments, and enlarge its customer service center. “The expansion of our Latin American headquarters in Mexico City, and the continued success of our business operations in Mexico and Latin America, is proof-positive that the TricorBraun business model is highly attractive to customers outside of the U.S. and Canada,” said George Dempsey, COO. For more information, visit www.tricorbraun.com. January 2012

APPLAUSE BAYER MATERIALSCIENCE’S MARCUM RECEIVES TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE AWARD The Polyurethane Foam Association (PFA) has awarded Adona Marcum with the Herman Stone Technical Excellence Award for her presentation at the PFA Fall Technical Program in Phoenix, AZ. Her paper was judged “best paper” by attendees. Marcum is a technical specialist with the Flexible Foam Raw Materials Group at Bayer MaterialScience. Her technical paper, “New Chemical Technology for the Production of Super High Air Flow Flexible Foams,” focused on the development of new polyether polyol and formulating technology that enables the direct production of very high air flow foams. This technology can help to significantly enhance the air flow of low-porosity foam types. In addition, the surface characteristics of the foam can be controlled through formulation or through coating processes, thus facilitating use in a wide range of prospective end-use applications such as bedding, seating, and other indoor and outdoor cushioning applications. For more information or to download a copy of the paper, visit www.pfa.org.

PEOPLE Nordson Corp. announced several promotions within its global leadership team. JOHN BYERS has been promoted to chief information officer, with global responsibility for leveraging information technology to support Nordson’s growth and performance goals. PETER BIERHUIS has been named president of Nordson ASYMTEK, succeeding Byers. Since 1999, Bierhuis has served as president of Nordson MARCH, during which time he drove the business to significant global expansion and its current position as an industry leader in plasma processing technology and systems. JAMES E. DEVRIES was elected corporate vice president of the company. DeVries serves as Nordson’s vice president, Global Continuous Improvement, reporting directly to Michael F. Hilton, president and CEO. JAMES GETTY has been promoted to president of Nordson MARCH, succeeding Bierhuis. Getty most recently served as Nordson MARCH’s vice president of Applications and Business Development. The company recently announced the promotion of GREGORY A. THAXTON to the position of corporate senior vice president. Thaxton, previously elected as a Nordson corporate vice president in 2007, serves as vice president, chief Financial officer, reporting to Nordson president and CEO Michael F. Hilton. PHIL VERE has been promoted to president of Nordson DAGE. Vere joined Nordson DAGE in 2007 and most recently served as managing direc-

tor for Bond Testers. Under his guidance, Nordson DAGE expanded its industry-leading position in bond testers for the printed circuit board assembly and semiconductor industries while earning multiple awards for technology and innovation. He succeeds STEVEN KEW , who has decided to pursue other interests after leading Nordson DAGE since 2008. Resinall Corp. recently announced several executive management changes. KEN COOLEY , Ph.D., has been named chief operations officer, with the title of vice president and COO. He is responsible for global operations, including manufacturing, technology, engineering and supply chain management. JOE LEVINE has been named chief commercial officer, with the title of vice president and CCO. In this position, he is responsible for sales, marketing and business development. He will continue as managing director of Resinall Europe bvba and has joined the board of Resinall Rutgers Resins GmbH. JERRY JOHNSON has been named vice president of Manufacturing and a managing director in Resinall Rutgers Resins GmbH. In this position, he is responsible for Resinall’s global manufacturing activities. S i k a ’s I n d u s t r y a n d A u t o m o t i v e Divisions have announced the appointment of new personnel in the customer service team and sales key account management function. SHALEEN FREEMAN has been appointed Customer Service representative, responsible for the Transportation, A&C, and FFI Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

11

COMPANY NEWS Business Unit. Freeman was formerly an assistant promotions manager for Metro Times Newspaper, and held positions with both Moochie and Co. and Sports Tech. M AT T H E W B L A I N j o i n s S i k a Automotive as key account manager, OES Sales Group. Blain has extensive knowledge of the automotive tier business, having held account management roles with Nitto-Denko and Grand Rapids Plastics. He also worked for 11

years with Dow Automotive in various sales, engineering and technical service roles. The Polyurethane Foam Association ( P F A ) a n n o u n c e d t h a t LY N N KNUDTSON was elected to serve as its president. “Lynn has a deep understanding of the industry and has made significant contributions to the PFA as a member of the executive committee

T

®

H E Patented blending/dispersing blade design makes radical improvement over old saw tooth designs

since 2008 and as technical counsel to the association,” said Robert Luedeka, executive director. “Lynn’s experience providing technical information to related organizations and regulatory groups will be invaluable during his tenure as president. He has played a key role in helping PFA maintain its position as the authoritative resource for scientific information related to flexible polyurethane foam.” The Adhesive and Sealant Council Inc. (ASC) recently announced that JOHN J. MCLAUGHLIN has joined its Board of Directors. McLaughlin has served as president and CEO of the DAP Group, a division of RPM International, since 1994. Av e r y D e n n i s o n C o r p . r e c e n t l y announced that its board of directors has elected CHARLES H. NOSKI a director of the company. Noski is currently vice chairman of Bank of America Corp., where he served previously as executive vice president and chief financial officer.

POLY

STAINLESS

*

Most efficient and aggressive blending/dispersing blade available.

*

Provides proper combination of pumping action and shear/ dispersion essential for fast consistent results.

* * * * *

Built in pumping action cuts processing time.

*

Longer life due to heavier gauge construction. Less heat due to shorter required running time. Excellent for high or low speed and high or low viscosity. Supplied with hubs or mounting holes required to retrofit and upgrade present equipment. Pumping blades without teeth are available and are excellent for gentle blending and agitation. DESIGNERS AND MANUFACTURES OF INDUSTRIAL MIXING EQUIPMENT

Since 1948

CONN

AND

CO., L.L.C.

www.connblade.com

Stirrers Or Complete Units For: PAINTS URETHANE FOAMS ADHESIVES SLURRIES INKS GROUTS CEMENTS ETC. . . .

11 SOUTH MARION STREET • WARREN, PENNA. 16365 • PHONE 814/723-7980 FAX (814) 723-8502

12

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

s r

r

Fusion UV Systems Inc. recently announced that MARK TILLEY , Ph.D., will become its vice president for Business Development. Tilley previously served as president and CEO of Unidym Inc., a California-based company that developed electronic applications of carbon nanotube-based inks and films.

HAVE NEWS TO SHARE? Please send press releases to Teresa McPherson at mcphersont@ bnpmedia.com.

TM

January 2012

CALENDAR FEBRUARY

JULY

OCTOBER

14-16 Green Manufacturing Expo West; Anaheim, CA; www.canontradeshows.com/expo/gmx11/ ana_event.html

10-12 SEMICON® West; San Francisco, CA; www.semiconwest.org

7-9

21-23 Composites 2012; Las Vegas, NV; www.acmashow.org 26-29 Adhesion Society Annual Meeting and Expo; New Orleans, LA; www.adhesionsociety.org

SEPTEMBER 12-14 GlassBuild America, Las Vegas; www.glassbuildamerica.com/ 18-21 8th World Adhesives & Sealants Conference (WAC2012); Paris; www.feica.eu.

ASC Fall Convention; Louisville, KY; www.ascouncil.org

11-14 Turkchem Chem Show Eurasia; Istanbul, Turkey; www.turkchem.net 28-31 PackExpo/CPP; Chicago; www.packexpo.com For a more detailed listing, visit www.adhesivesmag.com.

28-29 RadTech Annual Winter Meeting 2012; Miami Beach, FL; www.radtech.org

MARCH 1-3

Graphics of the Americas; Miami Beach, FL; www.graphicsoftheamericas.com

11-16 Pittcon 2012; Orlando, FL; (800) 825-3221, ext. 203; www.pittcon.org 20-22 Green Polymer Chemistry 2012; Cologne, Germany; http://www2.amiplastics.com/Events/ Event.aspx?code=C412&sec=1853 27-29 Westec; Los Angeles, CA; www.westeconline.com

APRIL 15-17 ASC Spring Convention; Denver, CO; www.ascouncil.org 18-19 NanoManufacturing Conference & Exhibits; Boston, MA; www.sme.org/cgi-bin/get-event.pl?-002081-000007-home--SME30-5/2 RadTech UV&EB Technology Expo and Conference; Chicago, IL; www.radtech2012.com 30-5/4 PSTC Week of Learning; Boston, MA; www.pstc.org

MAY 2-3

Green Manufacturing Expo; Charlotte, NC; www. canontradeshows.com/expo/gmx11/tx_event.html

7-9

TAPPI European PLACE Conference; Seattle, WA; www.tappi.org

7-10 American Coatings Show 2012; Indianapolis, IN; www.american-coatings-show.com 8-10 Powder & Bulk Solids; Rosemont, IL; www. canontradeshows.com/expo/ptxi12/ 15-17 CISILE 2012; Beijing, China; www.cisile.com.cn/en

Custom packaging in days, not weeks. Late deliveries cost you money and maybe customers. Why risk it when Merlin can turn around a typical order in 7 days or less? Merlin’s trained professionals provide accurate filling of dual cartridges, syringes, pouches, mixed frozen, and many other packaging options. Services include order fulfillment, inventory warehousing, bar coding, field repair and demo kits, and free samples with your material. For fast delivery of big or small orders of quality custom packaging, call Merlin Packaging Technologies today.

21-24 PPS Americas Conference 2012; Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada; www.pps2012.mie.utoronto.ca/ Home/Home.html

JUNE 19-21 AAT Expo; Rosemont, IL; www.aatexpo.com 21-24 Energy Efficiency Conference & Exhibit 2012; Orlando, FL; http://eece.us/index.html

January 2012

Gahanna, OH 43230 Toll-free: 888-648-7878 [email protected] www.merlinpackaging.com

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

13

ADVANCING ADHESIVES

RENEWABLE CARPET ADHESIVE INTRODUCED STYROFAN ® ECO 4810 latex adhesive offers renewable content for the carpet industry. ASF has developed what is reportedly the first latex for carpet backing adhesives to be made with a minimum of 10% renewable materials. “STYROFAN ECO 4810 will enable carpet manufacturers to develop new, sustainable pro ducts with ingredients that reduce energy and resource consumption, compared to alternative materials,” said Bert Te m p l e t o n , b u s i n e s s d i r e c t o r o f Carpet for BASF in North America. “ I m p o r t a n t l y, S T Y R O F A N E C O 4810 performs as well as traditional petroleum-based products.” B A S F ’s t e s t d a t a i n d i c a t e t h a t STYROFAN ECO 4810 latex achieves key product performance levels targeted by both residential and commercial carpet manufacturers. “STYROFAN

B

14

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

ECO 4810 latex creates value for our customers and demonstrates our commitment to developing innovative products to meet our customers’ needs. We continually look for ways to bring technologically advanced, sustainable products to the marketplace,” said Templeton. The carpet industry has a strong commitment to developing sustainable products. STYROFAN ECO 4810 latex will help carpet manufacturers meet the ANSI/NSF 140-2007 standards of the American National Standards Institute and NSF International. The ANSI/ NSF 140-2007 standards are used to identify certified carpets with a reduced environmental impact across multiple lifecycle and environmental categories. In its most recent report, the Carpet

and Rug Institute (CRI) noted that manufacturers are increasing their use of bio-based and recycled materials in the manufacture of carpet and backing. The use of carpet with STYROFAN ECO 4810 latex may also contribute toward Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) points for builders and contractors.

ABOUT BASF BASF Corp., headquartered in Florham Park, NJ, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, which is based in Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 16,400 employees in North America, and achieved sales of $17.7 billion in 2010. For more information about BASF’s North American operations, visit www.basf.us. STYROFAN is a registered trademark in the U.S., and a trademark in Canada of BASF SE (used with permission).

January 2012

ADVANCING ADHESIVES The newly developed device, an epidermal electronic system.

STICK-ON TATTOOS GO HIGH-TECH Micro-electronics, elegant design and existing tattoo technology combine to create a complex device that is far more than a novelty. hrough a combination of careful theoretical modeling and precise micro-manufacturing, a team of engineers and scientists has developed a new type of ultra-thin, self-adhesive electronics device that can effectively measure data about the human heart, brain waves and muscle activity—all without the use of bulky equipment, conductive fluids, or glues. The researchers have created a new class of micro-electronics with a technology that they call an epidermal electronic system (EES). They have incorporated miniature sensors, lightemitting diodes, tiny transmitters and receivers, and networks of carefully crafted wire filaments into the initial designs. The technology is presented—along with initial measurements that researchers captured using the EES—in a paper by

T

January 2012

lead author Dae-Hyeong Kim of the University of Illinois and colleagues in the Aug. 12, 2011, issue of Science. The EES device was developed by collaborators from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, Northwestern University, Tufts University, the Institute of High Performance Computing in Singapore, and Dalian University of Technology in China. “Our goal was to develop an electronic technology that could integrate with the skin in a way that is mechanically and physiologically i n v i s i b l e t o t h e u s e r, ” s a y s corresponding author John Rogers, a professor in the materials science and engineering department at the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign. “We found a solution that involves devices we designed to

achieve physical properties that match to the epidermis itself. It’s a technology that blurs the distinction between electronics and biology.” While existing technologies accurately measure heart rate, brain waves and muscle activity, EES devices offer the opportunity to seamlessly apply sensors that have almost no weight, no external wires and require negligible power. Because of the small power requirements, the devices can draw power from stray (or transmitted) electromagnetic radiation through the process of induction, and can harvest a portion of their energy requirements from miniature solar collectors. The EES designs yield flat devices that are less than 50 microns thick—thinner than the diameter of a human hair— Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

15

ADVANCING ADHESIVES

 Peel, Release and Friction Testers

In  and for All Sizes, Speeds and Budgets  

TL-2300

1(:

  

ϲƚŽϭϱϬϬŝŶͬŵŝŶ͘ͶϭϴŝŶ͘ƉůĂƚĞŶƚƌĂǀĞů

  SP-2100

Ϭ͘ϮƚŽϯϬϬŝŶͬŵŝŶ͘ͶϭϮŝŶ͘ƉůĂƚĞŶƚƌĂǀĞů

All 3 Models Have: Precision Drive Screws Strain Gage Load Cells

SPEC-1

Metric, English & SI Units COF sled accessory Standard PC Interfaces Other Peel Geometries

ϲ͕ϭϮ͕ϭϳŝŶͬŵŝŶ͘ͶϲŝŶ͘ƉůĂƚĞŶƚƌĂǀĞů

EŽƚƐŚŽǁŶŝƐƚŚĞWͲϭϭϬϬtǁŝƚŚƐƉĞĞĚƐƚŽϭϮ͕ϬϬϬŝŶͬŵŝŶ IMASS INC. Box 134 Accord MA 02018 Phone: 781-834-3063 FAX: 781-834-3064 www.imass.com

and are integrated onto a polyester backing similar to that used with stick-on tattoos. The devices are so thin that close-contact forces called van der Waals interactions dominate the adhesion at the molecular level, so the electronic tattoos adhere to the skin without any glues and stay in place for hours. The study demonstrated device lifetimes of up to 24 hours under ideal conditions. “The mechanics behind the design for our serpentineshaped electronics makes the device as soft as the human skin,” says Northwestern University engineer Yonggang Huang, also a lead researcher on the project. “The design enables brittle, inorganic semiconductors to achieve extremely vast stretchability and flexibility. Plus, the serpentine design is very useful for self adhesion to any surface without using glues.” While some areas of the body are ill-suited to adhesive electronics, such as the elbow, most regions commonly targeted for medical and experimental studies are ideal, including the forehead, extremities and the chest. Regions of the body that previously proved difficult to fit with sensors may now be monitored, including the throat, which the researchers studied to observe muscle activity during speech. The throat experiment yielded enough precision for the research team to differentiate words in vocabulary and even control a voice-activated video game interface with greater than 90% accuracy. “This type of device might provide utility for those who suffer from certain diseases of the larynx,” adds Rogers. “It could also form the basis of a sub-vocal communication capability, suitable for covert or other uses.” The current innovation builds upon six years of collaboration between Rogers and Huang, who had earlier partnered to develop flexible electronics for hemispherical camera sensors and other devices that conform to complex shapes. “This work is really just beginning,” Rogers says. “On the technology side, our focus is on wireless communication and improved solutions for power, such as batteries, storage capacitors and mechanical energy harvesters, to complement the inductive and solar concepts that we demonstrate in the present paper.” The researchers are also exploring clinical approaches, particularly for ailments where sensor size is critical, such as sleep apnea and neonatal care. Much further into the future, the researchers hope to incorporate microfluidic devices into their technology, opening up a new arena of electronic bandages and enhanced-functioning skin, potentially accelerating wound healing or treating burns and other skin conditions. The research was supported by the National Science Foundation through OISE-1043143, CMMI-0749028 and ECCS-0824129 grants, as well as the U.S. Air Force, Department of Energy, and Beckman Institute.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION The NSF is an independent federal agency that supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering. In fiscal year 2011, its budget was about $6.9 billion. NSF funds reach all 50 states through grants to nearly 2,000 universities and institutions. Each year, the NSF receives over 45,000 competitive requests for funding, and makes over 11,500 new funding awards. The NSF also awards over $400 million in professional and service contracts yearly. For more information, visit www.nsf.gov.

16

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

ASI01104Dynasol.indd 1

January 2012 12/15/09 3:08:47 PM

OR

Reusing disposable syringes and accessories can have negative effects. By Can La, Product Manager, OEM Products Division, Techcon Systems he most popular dispensing technique used in the manufacturing process is time and pressure dispensing (TPD) from a syringe barrel. This method became popular because of the low-cost, simple setup and lack of required maintenance. In addition, the dispensing repeatability rate produced by the TDP method is acceptable for a range of applications. A typical TPD system includes a dispenser, a disposable syringe assembly (barrel and piston), a syringe air adapter, and a disposable dispensing tip. The syringe barrel can be either mounted on an XYX table for automatic dispensing or handheld for manual processes. Every component in the TPD system plays an important role in controlling the accuracy and repeatability of the dispensing process. The dispenser provides a timed air signal to the syringe barrel/piston assembly. The repeatability rate of the dispenser timing system can be as accurate as ± 0.001% for a digital unit, so a dispenser with a reliable timer can ensure that a consistent air signal is delivered to the syringe barrel/piston assembly during the entire dispensing process. The next important component in the TPD system is the syringe barrel/piston assembly. A high-quality syringe barrel and piston provide consistent material output from start to finish while preventing material leakage around the piston wall. Finally, the dispense tip is the deciding factor in maintaining a steady material flow rate without clogging. Once the dispensing process has been dialed in to achieve

T

January 2012

the desirable results, the operator does not have to make any changes unless one or more of the components in the TPD system have been changed. To meet a high accuracy and repeatability rate along with cleanliness requirements, the syringe barrel, piston, and dispense tip are designed for one-time use. During the global recession, many companies have tried to reduce manufacturing costs by reusing syringe barrels, pistons and dispense tips. However, this decision can create a negative outcome, eventually adding more costs and reducing quality. A close examination of the critical features of these components provides a better understanding of the issues.

SYRINGE BARREL The syringe barrel includes three critical features: the inside diameter (ID), the luer lock outlet and the syringe barrel ear (where the air adapter is attached). A high-quality syringe barrel is designed with zero draft on the ID, meaning that the syringe barrel ID is consistently straight from the top to the bottom. This feature allows the mating piston to travel smoothly down the syringe barrel and consistently push out the material. The syringe barrel ID is also designed with a tight tolerance to ensure repeatable dispensing results from part to part. During the dispensing process, the syringe barrel is under pressure. If it is re-used, the ID can therefore be stretched out of round and expand by a few microns. This effect creates issues such as material blow-by if the material Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

17

RECYCLE OR REPLACE is not too viscous. Eventually, the leaked material will migrate back to the dispenser if no filter is connected to the air adapter. Secondly, air can drift around the piston and entrap the dispense material, causing moisturesensitive material to cure prematurely. Finally, if the syringe barrel is out of round, the dispensing output will be inaccurate and inconsistent. The luer lock outlet function secures the dispensing tip during the dispensing process. It is comprised of a luer taper post and luer lock threads. The luer taper post is designed with a close tolerance to provide a tight seal connection with the dispensing tip. The luer lock threads keep the needle in place when under pressure. After the syringe barrel is used more than once, both areas of the luer lock post and threads will have residual material buildup. It is difficult to completely clean out this area because of the many small gaps. There also is the possibility of the luer lock thread becoming damaged or worn out as a result of installing a dispensing tip. The combination of these problems can cause the material to leak at the joint or, even worse, cause the dispense tip to separate from the syringe barrel. The syringe barrel ear provides a secure connection for the receiver head (syringe barrel air adapter). To work properly, the ear should not be bent or damaged. During the dispensing process, the syringe barrel ear is constantly under pressure. For applications that require more than 90 psi of pressure, the ear can be deformed permanently after use. In a mild case, the bent ear can cause an air leak; in the worst-case scenario, the ear will break. Another issue caused by reused syringe barrels is cracking or shattering. Typically during the cleaning process, the syringe barrel is cleaned with a solvent. Some solvents could have a negative reaction with the syringe barrel, causing the plastic to become brittle. When the brittle syringe barrel is used again under pressure, it can crack or shatter.

PISTON The piston has three functions: push material out of the syringe barrel, prevent material blow-by, and keep air from coming in contact with the dispense material. Two critical parts of the piston are the 18

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

A typical TPD system includes a dispenser, a disposable syringe assembly (barrel and piston), a syringe air adapter, and a disposable dispensing tip.

front and back wiper seals. Wiper seals are designed with very tight tolerances. When inserted into the syringe barrel, the wiper seals are in contact with the syringe barrel’s inner wall. After the piston has completed one full travel from the top to the bottom of the syringe barrel, both wiper seals are worn out. If the piston is reused, worn-out wiper seals cannot do their job effectively. The first noticeable negative effect is leaking material. For applications that require a vacuum suck-back, leaking material can migrate back into the dispenser and eventually damage the unit. Another negative consequence of reusing a piston is excessive material waste. Worn wiper seals cannot completely wipe all of the material as the piston travels downward and, as a result, can leave material on the syringe barrel wall.

DISPENSE TIP The dispense tip consists of two parts: the plastic hub and the stainless steel cannula (tubing). Similar to the syringe barrel luer lock post, the ID of the plastic hub is designed with a close tolerance to provide a tight seal fit. Once the material flows through the needle, it leaves residue in the hub. The accumulation of this residue prevents the hub from fitting properly with the syringe barrel, resulting in material leakage. If the double-helix thread on the hub is worn out, the combined effect is needle separation. The inside surface of the stainless steel cannula must be clean

and smooth to ensure consistent flow and repeatable shot size. During use, material residue builds up on the inside surface and is difficult (if not impossible) to remove. In a mild case, residue creates a turbulent flow that can generate minuscule air bubbles. Eventually, the residue will completely obstruct the material path, impacting quality.

ADDITIONAL ISSUES While these issues are easily recognizable, one hidden issue may not be obvious to the operators—material contamination. High-quality syringe barrels, pistons and dispensing tips are manufactured in a clean room environment to ensure that parts meet cleanliness requirements. During the reuse process, foreign particles or residues from cleaning chemicals are introduced onto the surface of the consumable parts. Once the contaminants blend in with the dispensing material, they can interfere with the adhesive curing process and weaken the bonding structure. The issue of contamination is especially critical in the medical device m a n u f a c t u r i n g i n d u s t r y. M e d i c a l device manufacturers must comply with stringent and comprehensive regulations. For most device classes, contamination control is achieved through the use of a clean room environment. Recycled syringes and dispense tips may have contaminants that are not suitable for use in a clean room facility. January 2012

Another consequence of reusing barrels, pistons and dispense tips that may take some time for the operator to recognize is a deteriorated dispensing repeatability rate. As previously mentioned, the piston will be worn out and, when coupled with the expansion of the syringe barrel, the resulting negative effect will be a fluctuation in material output. For assembly processes that do not rely on a vision system or closed-loop weight check process, small dispense variations may not be detected until the problem becomes severe, causing product defects and expensive product rework or rejection.

Before recycling consumable parts, manufacturing managers should thoroughly research if the practice is worth the risk.

As mentioned previously, the main reason that companies decide to use recycled consumable parts is to reduce manufacturing costs. But is that logic really sound? Following is a sample calculation to see how much it actually costs to recycle one set of 10 cc syringe barrels, pistons and dispense tips:

January 2012

• Total time to clean = 5 minutes • Labor rate = $7.25 per hour ($0.12 per minute) • Labor cost to recycle one set of these parts ($0.12 x 5 minutes) = $0.60 • Cost of cleaning solvent = $0.05 • Total cost = $0.60 + $0.05 = $0.65 The average cost to buy one set of 10 cc syringe barrels, pistons and dispense tips is approximately $0.63. This calculation shows that recycled consumable parts actually do not provide a cost savings. Instead of using recycled syringes and dispense tips to reduce manufacturing costs, companies should look to other alternatives. Optimizing the manufacturing process to improve production efficiency and reduce rejection rates are two factors that will drive down cost while using high-quality dispensing components.

THE BIG PICTURE Before recycling consumable parts, manufacturing managers should thoroughly research if the practice is worth the risk. While some manufacturing processes do not require good process control or dispensing repeatability and contamination control, most manufacturing processes are designed to address these issues. Many managers agree that replacing barrels, pistons, and dispense tips after one use reduces rework and quality issues, which, in turn, reduces material waste and overall process cost. For more information, contact the author at 12151 Monarch St., Garden Grove, CA 92841; phone (714) 230-2398; fax (714) 799-9533; email [email protected]; or visit www.techconsystems.com.

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

19

A changing economy, new industry regulations and globalization trends require a new way of doing business. By Anita LaFond, Senior Editorial Manager, Constructive Communication, Inc. istorically, managers have developed business strategies based on past performance and forecasted trends. In today’s adhesives and sealants industry, however, simply knowing the trends is no longer adequate. Changing performance requirements, regulatory impact, rapid globalization, and material and supplier consolidations are a few of the key trends driving the marketplace and affecting adhesive customers. Suppliers who recognize these trends and are willing to collaborate with customers to proactively (not reactively) develop solutions will continue to have the most success.

H

EVOLVING CUSTOMER REQUIREMENTS The only constant in today’s marketplace is change. The oil and gas market is a case in point. Drilling companies are operating in environments that not too long ago were considered “off limits.” New technologies to extract petroleum create the need for different types of equipment. At the same time, deeper undersea, well and high-pressure drilling environments put tremendous stress on equipment. Heat and pressure can be extreme, and equipment must perform reliably. Equipment failures can have significant financial and environmental consequences for drilling companies. New high-performance adhesives are critical to safe and successful exploration and drilling in extreme environments. The oil and gas industry is not alone. The demand for higher performance adhesives and sealants required by new types of 20

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

elastomers and other materials is a common theme for a wide spectrum of sectors in both the automotive and industrial markets. Customers are looking for breakthrough adhesives and sealants that can meet both design requirements and regulatory standards. While the traditional means of meeting new design requirements is for suppliers to develop and market new materials, today’s adhesive and sealant companies need a more progressive approach. It is now critical for suppliers to partner with customers. “It is important to not simply supply a product to meet a described need,” said Todd Wallis, automotive market manager, Americas, for LORD Corp. “Rather, adhesives and sealants suppliers must really help their customers identify the gaps that their customers have and partner with them to develop solutions. This allows you to go beyond merely specifying something that meets the customer requirements and instead enables you to test, qualify, and implement new product solutions.” A good example involves the evolving adhesive performance needs for automotive noise, vibration and hardness (NVH) components. As cars continue to decrease in size, engine compartments are increasingly smaller, operate at higher temperatures and use more aggressive fluids to deliver improved ride performance at higher temperatures. It is critical that adhesive suppliers work closely with their customers and their customers’ customer to develop products that meet their demanding requirements. January 2012

Application experts work to optimize processes.

REGULATORY IMPACT Keeping up with changing environmental regulations is another challenge that customers and suppliers face, and this is especially true for the automotive industry. As auto emission standards become more stringent, they increasingly affect the products auto manufacturers and raw materials suppliers can use. Suppliers must understand these regulations and anticipate customers’ needs. For example, Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) regulations are impacting vehicle design. CAFE, first enacted by Congress in 1975, requires auto manufacturers to reduce energy consumption by increasing the fuel economy of cars and light trucks. Significant fines are levied against auto companies that do not meet CAFE standards. Revised CAFE standards, recently approved by the Obama administration, are driving the need for new and lighter weight composite materials, and shrinking the size of autos. Adhesive and sealant suppliers must develop products with different chemicals and fluid performance that will meet higher performance characteristics. A need also exists for adhesives that will bond these new and different substrates and elastomers. The industry is also affected by new emissions standards at the state and federal level. Many of the new state regulations limit solvent content in adhesives and coatings, and prohibit the use of specific raw materials. Adhesive suppliers must manage emissions and regulatory guidelines while supplying products for use in customers’ existing application processes. It is therefore important January 2012

Example of chain-on-edge line used to develop and refine product applications.

for suppliers to develop adhesives and coatings that meet both current and anticipated regulatory requirements. “We recognized that it was not enough to wait for customers to understand the implications of these regulations and then try to respond with a product solution,” said Karen Sy-Laughner, industrial market manager, Americas, for LORD. “Rather, we invested heavily and developed aqueous and low-HAPs systems to help customers proactively meet these new and evolving requirements. As an industry, it is imperative that we help our customers not only understand, but meet these regulations in the most efficient manner possible.”

GLOBAL MARKET Another major trend our industry faces is globalization, as many customers continue to build manufacturing facilities throughout the world. As part of their expansion efforts, customers expect to have the same products available at all of their manufacturing locations. They want to buy the same products from the same supplier anywhere in the world, because they need to manufacture the same product and ensure consistent quality.

To support global customers, it is critical that companies operate globally; this goes beyond the ability to ship products around the world. True global suppliers invest in local infrastructure to provide technical service, manufacturing and support wherever key customers are located. “Think global and act local” is more than just a slogan; it is a sound business strategy. Manufacturers must also be aware of legislation and regulations in the countries in which customers use their products. These regulations can cover environmental concerns, packaging, pro duct formulations and disposal methods. Hence, it is important to have local personnel in place in the countries where products are shipped. Local personnel can keep current on changing regulatory standards and communicate critical information back through an organization, allowing for product formulation and design adjustments as necessary.

RAW MATERIALS CONSOLIDATION Since the 2008 recession, raw materials suppliers have gone through significant material consolidation efforts, resulting Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

21

Experts in Custom Packaging

in raw material stock-outs and eliminations. As the raw materials suppliers work to optimize profitability, their consolidations have put a strain on customers and suppliers alike—sometimes forcing suppliers to make changes when products are no longer available. This is an ongoing challenge in the adhesives and sealants industry, and the trend is likely to continue. It is important for manufacturers to maintain close relationships with raw materials suppliers in order to ensure the long-term viability of the supply chain, for both the manufacturers’ requirements and the customers’ needs. Building strong relationships with both customers and suppliers allows a company to maintain material consistency and ensure the long-term viability of the supply chain. Therefore, it is crucial to continually monitor suppliers and work with them to understand what products are or may become at risk.

Kitpackers is a premier packager of one and two component industrial chemicals. Custom Packaging Advantages: t
t
t
t
t


A NEW BUSINESS APPROACH

Reduce Production Costs Precision Dispensing Improved Process Control Accurate Mix Ratio & Proper Mix Minimize Chemical Exposure

Value Added Services: t
Extensive In-House Testing Capabilities t
Experienced Chemists On Staff t
Toll Blending & Custom Modification Specialists t
Premixed & Frozen Packaging Leaders t
Expert Documentation: t
CERT’s, COA’s, MSDS’s & TDS’s t
Highest Quality & Service: ISO 9001:2008 Registered

A company can help ensure its success by focusing on

Request a Free Products brochure online or call.

the success of its customers. 1-866-322-8322 www.kitpackers.com

Series 540 Sealant Tester Computer Controlled Test Frame

• Designed to perform reliable cyclic testing of sealants, adhesives, and coating to various specifications. • Ask about the optional heat/cool chamber with control system! • PC with Windows ™ based software.

screen shot of software

Applied Testing Systems, Inc. has been supplying quality test equipment for the industry for more than 40 years. Call one of our sales engineers today to set up your custom model or to request a catalog.

Another challenge is presented by the fact that many companies have had to reduce their staff. Preferred suppliers may use this as an opportunity to help customers optimize their processes and reduce costs by providing access to expert technical teams. Companies can also take advantage of a great opportunity to stay in the forefront of customers’ minds by keeping them educated on industry changes and providing solutions that resolve problems and save money.

LISTENING TO THE CUSTOMER To be successful today, it takes more than just developing and selling new products. A company can help ensure its success by focusing on the success of its customers. Partnering with your customers is important, and this means engaging them at all levels in their organization. From the plant floor to the boardroom, companies need to listen in order to understand customers’ requirements and learn how they want to develop their businesses. As customers invest in global operations and demand higher performance product requirements, suppliers must contend with a changing world of regulatory requirements while striving to reduce costs. To meet these challenges, suppliers must invest in technology, people and infrastructure to support global customer growth. Developing strategies that align with industry trends and customer needs will create success.

ABOUT LORD CORP. Founded in 1924, LORD is a privately held company that designs, manufactures, and markets mechanical devices and electromechanical systems to control vibration, motion and noise; formulates, produces, and sells general-purpose and specialty adhesives, coatings and electronic materials; and develops products and systems using magnetically responsive technologies. With headquarters in Cary, NC, and sales in excess of $720 million, LORD has manufacturing facilities in nine countries and offices

(724) 283-1212 www.atspa.com [email protected]

in more than 15 major business centers. LORD employs more than 2,700 worldwide.

Series 510 and 520 horizontal sealant testers also available! 22

|

Visit www.lord.com for more information.

www.adhesivesmag.com

ASI12064Applied.indd 1

January 2012 10/24/06 9:52:42 AM

FOCUS ON

WACKER RECEIVES INNOVATION AWARD GENIOSIL can enable the formulation of fast-curing adhesives and sealants. ACKER has received Frost & Sullivan’s New Product Innovation Award for its novel GENIOSIL® product class. According to Frost & Sullivan, the GENIOSIL product class was reportedly chosen because it incorporates advanced alpha-silane technologies, offers superior performance during processing, delivers high value to customers, and provides a fast return on investment. GENIOSIL can enable the formulation of fast-curing adhesives and sealants, with applications ranging from highly flexible, paintable sealants to high-strength assembly adhesives, and crystal-clear cabinet sealants. Fr ost & Sullivan tested several construction adhesives and sealants before presenting the award. Assessment criteria included innovative element, leverage, value- added features, return on investment and penetration potential. GENIOSIL received top points in all categories. “WACKER’s GENIOSIL products incorporate a special silane structure that equips them with high reactivity, which enables them to be interlinked with polymers, leading to a wide range of possible formulations,” said Macaulay Iyayi, Best Practices account manager with Frost & Sullivan. “GENIOSIL is able to successfully eliminate crosslinking problems associated with polyurethanes and enhance the properties of silicones. Frost & Sullivan is therefore proud to present the 2011 New Product Innovation Award in the Construction Sealants Market to Wacker Chemie AG.” Rudolf Hager, Ph.D., supply chain director and head of WACKER SILICONES’ alpha-silane project, accepted the award. “We are very proud of this award, because it shows that even analysts and market experts are enthusiastic about our innovative silane and hybrid technologies.” The alpha effect is a phenomenon that has been known for some time. In the 1960s, scientists discovered that substitution

W

January 2012

GENIOSIL alpha-silanes are used to formulate high-performance adhesives and sealants for the construction and assembly industries.

of certain structural elements led to higher organo-functional silane reactivity. This discovery, however, was slowly forgotten. In the end, WACKER chemists recognized the alpha effect’s potential and how to use it, Hager said. “Highly reactive alphasilanes enable the production of rapid-curing adhesives and sealants, isocyanate-free construction and installation foams, scratchproof coatings, abrasion-resistant composites, and lowtin or even tin-free silicone sealants. That’s what makes alphasilanes quite unique.” Sealants and adhesives formulated with GENIOSIL reportedly offer outstanding mechanical properties. They do not require labeling, since the formulations are free of plasticizers and solvents. GENIOSIL is used in numerous sophisticated adhesive formulations for applications in the automotive sector, container construction, and for parquet floor bonding. WACKER also offers a new range of ready-to-use adhesives called GENIOSIL N, which includes several products for the adhesive and sealants industry. For more information, visit www.wacker.com.

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

23

Hydrogenated DCPD-Based Resins for SBC-Based Hot-Melt PSAs Hydrogenated dicyclopentadiene resins affect adhesive performance when used as tackifiers in styrene-blockcopolymer-based hot-melt pressuresensitive adhesives. By Jungjoon Lee, Ph.D., Technical Team Manager, Kolon Industries., Ltd.

icyclopentadiene (DCPD)-based hydrocarbon resins are widely used as tackifiers in many applications. In particular, hydrogenated DCPD-based hydrocarbon resins are frequently used in premium hot-melt adhesives (HMAs) and hot-melt pressure-sensitive adhesives (HMPSAs) because of their water-white color and excellent stability to light and heat. Such resins are characterized by their softening point, degree of modification with aromatic olefins and degree of hydrogenation. When the tackifiers are formulated with an elastomeric polymer, these characteristics have a bearing on the adhesive performance.

D

HYDROGENATED DCPD RESINS There are two main types of DCPD-based hydrocarbon resins: DCPD resins, which predominantly contain DCPD; and DCPD-C9 resins, which contain substantial amounts of aromatic unsaturated components such as styrene, ␣-methylstyrene, vinyl-

Table 1. Tackifier Characteristics Grades

Softening Point (°C)

Molecular Weight (Mz)

Aromatic H (wt% by 1H NMR)

Hydrogenation Level of Non-Aromatic C=C

SU-90

90

810

0

Full

SU-100

105

970

0

Full

SU-120

120

1370

0

Full

SU-500

103

1050

0

Perfect

SU-525

125

1250

0

Perfect

SU-100S

103

1050

1

Full

SU-210

110

1130

1

Partial

SU-230

130

1500

1

Partial

H-2120

120

1270

1

Partial

H-2300

100

1080

3

Partial

SU-420

120

1300

4

Full

SU-490

90

940

8

Full

SU-400

103

1150

8

Full

24

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

January 2012

Figure 1. Adhesive Performance of SIS-Based HMPSAs Containing Different Tackifiers

Figure 2. Temperature Ranges as Calculated from Rheological Analysis of SIS-Based HMPSAs

toluene, or aromatic fractions. The hydrogenation of hydrocarbon resins affords resins that are very light or water-white in color and that possess remarkable stability to light and heat. In this study, various hydrogenated DCPD resins were used as tackifiers to afford styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS)- and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS)-based HMPSAs. Details about the characteristics of the tackifiers are listed in Table 1. The adhesives tested in this study were SIS- and SBS-based HMPSA formulations. The SBC/tackifier/ plasticizer blend ratio was 25/57/18 by weight. These adhesives were formulated at 180°C over the course of two hours using a laboratory internal mixer. They January 2012

were then evaluated under controlled temperature and humidity conditions (23°C and 65%, respectively). The adhesives were coated on 40-μm PET film. A ChemInstruments LT-1000 loop tack tester was used to measure the loop tack. The 180° peel adhesion test method (PSTC-1, peel adhesion for single-coated tapes at 180° angle) was used to measure the adhesion strength of the PSAs. A TA instruments AR 2000 was used to measure the rheological properties of the HMPSAs. Specimens with a thickness and diameter of 2 and 8 mm, respectively, were prepared and measured at a shear rate of 1 Hz. Testing temperatures ranged from -50 to 120°C, and the heating rate was 7°C/min.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Every tackifier used in this study can easily tackify SIS and be used to formulate HMPSAs. Figure 1 shows comparative test results of the adhesive performance of SIS-based HMPSAs containing different tackifiers. From the viewpoint of being PSAs, all adhesives have sufficient peel strength adhesion and tackiness; however, some trends were identified. Among tackifiers having the same softening point, those with higher aromatic content had higher peel strength and loop tack compared to those with low or no aromatic content. For example, SU-400, SU-100, SU-100S, and SU-500 have the same softening point; however, SU-400, which has the highest aromatic content, has relatively higher peel strength and loop tack. In addition, tackifiers having a high softening point increase the peel strength and loop tack of SIS-based HMPSAs. Rheological measurements can be used to describe the characteristics of adhesives and to clarify the tack and high-temperature performance. The glasstransition temperature (Tg) indicates the point at which a polymer changes from a glassy to a rubbery material. The T g is considered to be the point at which the tan ␦ curve is maximum; hence, the adhesives have different glass-transition temperatures depending on the tackifiers used in their formulation. Rheological analysis such as a temperature sweep test also provides information about the adhesive’s holding power at high temperatures. Generally, the magnitude of the crossover temperature (where G’ = G” and tan ␦ = 1) of PSAs correlates very well to the actual experimental shear adhesion failure temperature (SAFT). The characteristics of tackifiers and the properties of PSAs were statistically analyzed using Minitab Version 14. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) was used to compare variables. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Table 2 (p. 26) shows the results of Pearson’s statistics, correlating softening point, molecular weight Mz, and aromatic H wt% of tackifiers with Tg, crossover temperature, and softening point of SIS-based HMPSAs. The softening point of the tackifier affected the low-temperature properties (e.g., Tg of PSAs) and high-temperature properties (e.g., crossover temperature and softening point of PSAs). The molecular weight of the tackifier mainly affected the low-temperature properties. The aromatic H wt% affected only high-temperature properties. Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

25

HYDROGENATED DCPD-BASED RESINS Table 2. Tackifier Characteristics vs. Properties of SIS-Based HMPSAs Softening Point of Tackifier vs. Tg of PSAs Crossover temperature of PSAs Softening point of PSAs Molecular Weight (Mz) of Tackifier vs. Tg of PSAs Crossover temperature of PSAs Softening point of PSAs Aromatic H (wt%) of Tackifier vs. Tg of PSAs Crossover temperature of PSAs Softening point of PSAs

r

P

0.922 0.760 0.718

0.000 0.004 0.009

0.839 0.521 0.493

0.001 0.082 0.104

-0.281 -0.831 -0.791

0.376 0.001 0.002

Figure 3. Adhesive Performance of SBS-Based HMPSAs Containing Different Tackifiers

Figure 2 (p. 25) shows the temperature ranges from Tg to the crossover temperature, as calculated from the rheological analysis of SIS-based HMPSAs. Depending on the characteristics of the constituent tackifiers, the formulated adhesives have different workable temperatures as PSAs. SU-500, a tackifier with no aromatic content, has wider range of workable temperatures than SU-400, a tackifier with high aromatic H wt%, even though both have the same softening point. In tackifiers with higher softening points, the workable temperature range of the PSA shifts to a higher temperature. Figure 3 shows comparative test results of the adhesive performance of SBS-based HMPSAs using different tackifiers. In these results, only some of the tackifiers exhibit tackiness at room temperature. Tackifiers having an aromatic H wt% higher than 3% and/or a softening point lower than 110°C have significant loop tack strength at room temperature; SU-490, SU-400, H-2300 and SU-90 are examples of such tackifiers. Figure 4 shows the temperature ranges from Tg to the crossover temperature, as calculated from the rheological analysis of SBS-based HMPSAs. The patterns observed are similar to those shown in Figure 2, in that a tackifier with no aromatic content has wider range of workable temperatures than one with high aromatic H wt% content, and the workable temperature range of PSAs containing a tackifier with high softening point is shifted to a higher temperature. However, SBS-based HMPSAs have higher glass-transition temperatures than SIS-based HMPSAs. This may be caused by a smaller content of rubbery region to be swelled with tackifier in the former than in the latter.

Figure 4. Temperature Ranges as Calculated from Rheological Analysis of SBS-Based HMPSAs

CONCLUSION This article shows the correlation between the characteristics of tackifiers and the adhesive performance of styrene-block-copolymer-based HMPSAs. The higher the softening point of the tackifier, the higher the Tg, softening point and crossover temperature of the PSAs. High aromatic H wt% content reduces the hightemperature resistance of PSAs, as suggested by the decrease in the crossover temperature and softening point of the PSAs. Only some tackifiers that have high aromatic H wt% content and/or low softening point exhibit tackiness at room temperature when they are used to formulate SBS-based HMPSAs. For additional information, contact Kolon Industries, Ltd., 10th Fl., Kolon Tower 1-23, Byulyang-dong, Kwacheon City, Kyunggi-do, Korea; phone (82) 23677-6105; fax (82) 23677-6191; email [email protected]; or visit www.kolonindustries.com.

26

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

January 2012

Discover the Latest Innovations in UV/EB Technology

Technology Expo & Conference April 30-May 2, 2012 | Hyatt Regency Chicago | Chicago, Ill. Technical Conference 2.0 Micro-sessions delivering cutting-edge information.

More End-Users There are more end-users than ever at RadTech conferences.

Where UV/EB Is Going New markets, ideas and connections to keep your company competitive.

Adhesives, Sealants & Release Coating Session Special conference session covering the latest technology available for UV & EB-curable adhesives, sealants and release coatings.

WIll you be joining industry leaders like these and many more in Chicago? Just a few of our recent RadTech Event attendees: Apple Inc. Crayola Delphi Corporation Ford Motor Company General Motors Intel

Kraft Foods Lockheed Martin Masco Corporation Northrop Grumman Panasonic PepsiCo

Procter and Gamble Reebok International Samsung The Boeing Company The Coca-Cola Company The Hershey Company

Toyota U.S. Air Force U.S. Army Whirlpool Corporation

Presented by

Register Online at www.radtech2012.com

Fiber GlassReinforced Polycarbonate

COMPOUNDS Fiber glass-filled formulations of HFD copolymers result in improved visual appearance and higher surface gloss in injection molded parts. hermoplastic compositions derived from bisphenol-A (BPA) polycarbonate (PC) are used in a variety of applications that leverage the inherent ductility, clarity, heat and chemical resistance, and dimensional stability of polycarbonate resins.1 Chopped glass fiber is often added to polycarbonate formulations at loadings ranging from 5-50 wt % in order to increase stiffness and improve certain mechanical properties. It has been documented that the addition of short-fiber glass to polycarbonate materials results in an increase in modulus, improved dimensional stability and enhanced flame resistance.2-4 However, several disadvantages are involved when adding fiber glass to polycarbonate materials, particularly loss of transparency, decrease in ductility and toughness, and increase in melt viscosity. Numerous studies have focused on investigating the affect of glass fiber surface coating, fiber aspect ratio, and fiber orientation on the mechanical properties of thermoplastic compositions.5-7 A new range of polycarbonate copolymers composed of BPA and a bio-sourced co-monomer derived from castor bean oil has recently been introduced.8-14 These materials, designated LEXAN™ high-flow

T

ductile (HFD) resins,* show an improved flow and ductility balance compared to standard PC while retaining similar optical clarity and light transmission properties. Some demonstrated advantages of the HFD copolymer resins compared to standard BPA polycarbonate include improved molding capability for long flow-length or thin-wall parts, lower temperature processing capability, improved low-temperature ductility, and superior mold release performance. In addition, preliminary studies have shown that fiber glass-filled formulations of HFD copolymers result in improved visual appearance and higher surface gloss in injection molded parts.14

STUDY SPECIFICS A study was undertaken to examine the physical and mechanical properties of fiber glass-filled HFD copolymer compositions at 10, 20, and 30% glass loadings, and to compare the performance of these materials to comparable glass-filled standard polycarbonate products. The comparison covers typical ASTM testing parameters such as melt flow rate (MFR), heat deflection temperature (HDT), izod and multi-axial impact, as well as tensile and flexural modulus. In addition, the

By Jon Malinoski, SABIC Innovative Plastics

melt viscosity and spiral flow molding performance of the glass-filled HFD and standard PC materials are presented. Injection molding studies using a polished square plaque tool were performed in order to evaluate the effect of resin melt temperature, mold temperature, and injection speed on surface gloss for the glass-filled HFD and PC materials. Finally, the influence of melt viscosity, as well as formulation heat deflection temperature on molded plaque surface gloss, was evaluated by screening a range of HFD copolymer compositions with varying HDT and melt viscosity rate (MVR) properties. The materials used in this study are standard glass-filled LEXAN polycarbonate and LEXAN HFD resins. The standard polycarbonate samples are commercially available LEXAN 500R resin (10% glass), LEXAN 3412R resin (20% glass), and LEXAN 3413R resin (30% glass). The LEXAN resin HFD materials used in this study are LEXAN resin HFD3211 (10% glass), LEXAN resin HFD3412 (20% glass), and LEXAN resin HFD3413 (30% glass) grades. The test materials in this study are coded according to their composition followed by their fiber glass content: Standard polycarbonate exam-

*LEXAN is a registered trademark of SABIC Innovative Plastics IP B.V. SABIC

28

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

Innovative Plastics is a trademark of SABIC Holding Europe B.V.

January 2012

Figure 1. Viscosity vs. Shear Rate for GFPC-20 and GFHFD-20

Figure 2. Viscosity at 1500 s-1 for GFPC and GFHFD

Figure 3. Spiral Flow Molding for GFPC and GFHFD (Tmelt 310°C, Tmold 85°C)

Figure 4. Molded Plaque Surface Gloss (Tmelt 320°C, Tmold 115°C)

ples are labeled GFPC and the HFD copolymer examples are labeled GFHFD. Thus, standard polycarbonate at 10% glass loading is coded as GFPC-10. All formulations were thoroughly compounded in a 30 mm co-rotating twin screw (Werner & Pfleiderer, ZSK30) extruder using a melt temperature of 300°C with a rate of 20 kgs/hr, 20 in. of mercury vacuum and a screw speed of 400 rpm. Chopped fiber glass was added during the compounding step via a downstream feeder. The extrudate was cooled under water, pelletized and dried at 120°C for four hours with a desiccant bed dryer. To make test specimens, the dried pellets were injection molded using a Van Dorn 80T molding machine at 300°C melt temperature to form test parts for impact and mechanical testing. Physical and mechanical properties of the test materials in this study were measured using ASTM and ISO test standards. Viscosity vs. shear rate measurements were performed using a Kayeness capillary rheometer. Spiral January 2012

flow molding studies were performed at a melt temperature of 310°C; mold temperature of 95°C; and channel depths of 1.5, 2.3, and 3.0 mm. The surface gloss for glass fiber-filled PC and HFD samples was measured on 100 mm square plaques at 2.5 mm thickness; 60° gloss measurements were recorded using a BYK Microgloss gloss meter.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The physical and mechanical properties of fiber glass-filled HFD copolymer and standard PC materials were screened using a battery of standard ASTM and ISO test methods. The results of this comparative study are listed in Table 1 (p. 30). The HFD copolymer samples show significantly higher MFR and MVR compared to the standard polycarbonate examples for 10, 20 and 30 wt % glass loadings. The increase in melt flow between HFD and standard PC materials becomes larger as glass content increases. For example, GFHFD-10 shows 2.5 times

higher MVR compared to GFPC-10. However, GFHFD-30 shows four times higher MVR compared to GFPC-30. (The relative differences in melt viscosity between the glass-filled HFD and PC materials will be further evaluated using capillary rheology and spiral flow molding in upcoming sections.) As was previously reported for unfilled HFD copolymer resins, the glass-filled HFD samples consistently show lower HDT values compared to the glass-filled standard PC materials.14 As is expected with fiber glass-filled systems, the glassfilled HFD and PC materials show roughly 5-10°C higher HDT values compared to their unfilled counterparts. The difference in HDT between GFPC and GFHFD examples increases with increasing fiber glass content; at 10% glass the delta is 11-12°C, whereas at 30% glass content the difference is 17-18°C. The impact and mechanical properties of the fiber glass-filled HFD copolymer Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

29

FIBER GLASS-REINFORCED POLYCARBONATE COMPOUNDS Table 1. Comparison of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Glass-Filled PC and HFD Test

Test Method

Melt flow rate, 300°C, 1.2 kfg (g/10 min)

ASTM D 1238

7.5

ISO 1133

6.5

Melt volume rate, 300°C,

GFPC-10

GFHFD-10

GFPC-20

GFHFD-20

GFPC-30

GFHFD-30

18

5

15.5

4

16

16

4

13

3

14

1.2 kgf (cm3/10 min) HDT, 0.45 MPa, 3.2 mm, unannealed (°C)

ASTM D 648

142

130

146

130

146

129

HDT, 1.82 MPa, 3.2 mm, unannealed (°C)

ASTM D 648

134

123

141

125

143

125

Izod impact, notched 23°C (J/m)

ASTM D 256

106

87

116

130

134

140

Izod impact, unnotched 23°C (J/m)

ASTM D 256

2020

1390

880

860

840

890

45

39

25

19

22

21

Instrumented impact total energy 23°C (J) ASTM D 3763 Flexural modulus, 1.3 mm/min (MPa)

ASTM D 790

3500

3500

5210

5060

7840

7500

Tensile modulus, 5 mm/min (MPa)

ASTM D 638

4530

4000

6630

6370

9100

8800

Tensile strength, 5 mm/min (MPa)

ASTM D 638

49

46

86

82

102

101

3

Density (g/cm ) Mold shrinkage, flow, 3.2 mm (%) CTE -40°C to 95°C, flow (1/°C)

ASTM D 792

1.25

1.25

1.35

1.35

1.44

1.44

SABIC Method

0.2-0.4

0.2-0.4

0.1-0.3

0.1-0.3

0.1-0.3

0.1-0.3

ASTM E 831

3.2 x 10-5

3.3 x 10-5

2.7 x 10-5

2.8 x 10-5

2.1 x 10-5

2.2 x 10-5

UL 94

V-0 at 1.5mm

HB at 0.75mm

V-0 at 3.0mm

HB at 0.75mm

V-0 at 3.0mm

HB at 0.75mm

UL 94 flame rating

Figure 5. 50x Optical Microscopy of Plaque Surface for GFPC-10 and GFHFD-10

and standard PC materials were analyzed using 23°C notched and un-notched izod, as well as multi-axial impact test methods. The GFHFD and GFPC materials do not show any significant differences in impact energy for notched izod impact across the range of fiber glass loadings. At 10% glass content, the GFPC-10 sample did demonstrate higher impact energy for un-notched izod impact (2020 J/m) compared to GFHFD-10 (1390 J/m). At 20 and 30% glass loadings, the difference between GFPC and GFHFD un-notched izod impact becomes negligible. The GFPC-10 and GFPC-20 samples show 10-20% higher instrumented impact energies compared to GFHFD-10 and GFHFD-20, while GFPC-30 and GFHFD30 materials displayed nearly equivalent performance. It is important to note that the GFPC-10 and GFHFD-10 samples both showed 100% ductility in the 23°C instrumented impact testing, whereas the 30

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

20 and 30% glass PC and HFD samples all showed 0% ductility. A comparison of the mechanical properties of glass-filled polycarbonate and glass-filled HFD copolymer materials shows very similar flexural and tensile modulus values. As expected, the modulus or stiffness of these materials increases with increasing fiber glass content. Tensile strength results were also nearly identical between the GFPC and GFHFD samples. These results indicate that there are no significant differences in resin-glass adhesion, and no significant differences occur in glass attrition during processing between the HFD copolymer and standard PC materials. Density, mold shrinkage performance, and thermal expansion properties were nearly identical between the PC and HFD samples across the 10-30% fiber glass content range. It is important to note that the glassfilled PC samples in this study are capable

of achieving a UL94 V-0 rating, whereas the glass-filled HFD copolymer samples are only formulated to achieve an HB rating. Future studies on the glass-filled HFD materials will focus on evaluating various formulation options for improving flame resistance capability. In order to further examine the differences in melt viscosity between the GFPC and GFHFD materials, a capillary rheometer was used to measure viscosity over a range of shear rates and melt temperatures. The results of this analysis for 20% glass-filled PC and HFD samples are shown in Figure 1 (p. 29). In the shear rate range that is most typical of injection molding processes (in general, between 1000-5000 s-1), the GFHFD20 material shows around 50% lower melt viscosity compared to GFPC-20 at 300°C melt temperature. The viscosity vs. shear rate curve for GFHFD-20 at 260°C overlaps almost perfectly with the curve for GFPC-20 at 300°C. From a practical perspective, this data indicates that in an injection molding application the GFHFD-20 material should process similar to the GFPC-20 sample, but at around a 40°C lower melt temperature. Molding at lower melt temperatures can have several advantages, including lower energy costs, reduced degradation of the polymer matrix, and reduced visual defects such as mold deposits or splay. The capillary melt viscosity at a constant shear rate of 1500 s-1 for 10, 20, and 30% glass-filled HFD and PC materials is shown in Figure 2 (p. 29). At a melt temperature of January 2012

Figure 6. Surface Gloss vs. MVR for GFHFD-20 Compositions (Tmelt 320°C, Tmold 115°C)

300°C, the glass-filled HFD materials show 40-65% lower melt viscosity compared to the GFPC samples. As is expected based on the MFR and MVR data, the difference in melt viscosity between HFD and PC materials is larger at higher glass content. Spiral flow molding is a tool often used to compare the practical flow length of materials under similar processing conditions. The spiral flow tool used in this study has a fixed channel width of 16 mm and a channel depth that can be varied from 1.5-3.0 mm. The results of spiral flow molding at a melt temperature of 310°C and a mold temperature of 85°C are shown in Figure 3 (p. 29). Based on this data, the GFHFD materials show 50-130% longer flow lengths compared to their GFPC counterparts at similar fiber glass loading. The magnitude of increased flow length for GFHFD vs. GFPC increases with increasing glass content. It is possible to make an estimate of potential part thickness reduction by measuring spiral flow molding over a range of channel depths and comparing the GFHFD and GFPC materials at a given spiral flow. For example, the spiral flow value of GFHFD-20 at ~ 2 mm thickness is equal to the spiral flow of GFPC-20 at 3.0 mm, which corresponds to a roughly 33% reduction in part thickness. Longer flow lengths and the opportunity for part thickness reduction are desirable attributes for GFHFD materials, particularly for applications such as mobile phone housings and frames. In addition, the higher flow properties of glass-filled HFD materials enable the use of higher fiber glass loadings for a given part geomJanuary 2012

Figure 7. Surface Gloss vs. HDT for GFHFD-20 Compositions (Tmelt 320°C, Tmold 115°C, inject speed 75 mm/s)

etry compared to standard glass-filled PC, which results in increased part stiffness and dimensional stability. It has been previously documented that fiber glass-filled compositions of HFD polycarbonate copolymer show higher surface gloss in injection molded plaques compared to comparable glass-filled standard polycarbonate materials.10,14 An example of this is shown in Figure 4 (p. 29), where, under a given set of molding conditions, the GFHFD materials show 30-50% higher 60° gloss compared to the GFPC samples. When the surfaces of the plaques

compares results for the 20% glass-filled GFHFD and GFPC materials, are shown in Table 2 (p. 32). From the data, it is clear that increasing resin melt temperature, increasing mold temperature, and increasing injection speed all result in an increase in surface gloss. In all cases, the GFHFD-20 material showed higher surface gloss than the GFPC-20 samples. The ability to achieve higher surface gloss is particularly important for parts requiring a good aesthetic appearance or applications where multiple coats of paint are normally required to hide any exposed glass fibers. In addi-

The glass-filled HFD materials offer a broader processing window to achieve a higher gloss finish compared to a standard glass-filled PC. generated in this study are analyzed by optical microscopy, it is clear that the reduction in gloss for glass-filled materials (compared to an unfilled sample) is caused by exposed glass fibers at the part surface (see Figure 5). In the case of the GFHFD-10 example, the glass fibers are buried underneath a thin layer of resin, resulting in higher gloss and overall improved surface aesthetics. An injection molding study was completed using a polished-surface square plaque tool to illustrate the effects of melt temperature, mold temperature, and molding injection speed on surface gloss. The results of this study, which

tion, certain part geometries or designs do not allow for extremely high melt or mold temperatures to achieve a high surface gloss. The glass-filled HFD materials therefore offer a broader processing window to achieve a higher gloss finish compared to a standard glass-filled PC. As stated previously, the two major physical property differences between the GFPC and GFHFD compositions are melt flow and HDT. It is conceivable that either or both properties could contribute to producing higher gloss surface appearance for the GFHFD materials. Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

31

FIBER GLASS-REINFORCED POLYCARBONATE COMPOUNDS Table 2. Surface Gloss Molding Study, GFHFD-20 and GFPC-20 Condition Melt temperature (°C) Mold temperature (°C) Inject speed (mm/s) GFHFD-20 60° gloss GFPC-20 60° gloss

1 300 80 75 90 61

In order to isolate and evaluate these properties, two separate experiments were performed. In the first experiment, a range of 20% glass-filled HFD compositions was compounded at the same HDT target (130°C at 0.45 MPa), but with varying melt flow targets. The results of injection molding studies with these materials are shown in Figure 6 (p. 31). Based on the gloss data at slower injection speeds (25 mm/s), it is evident that surface gloss decreases with decreasing melt viscosity (increasing MVR). However, it was noted during these experiments that, as MVR increases, the pressure inside the mold decreases accord-

2 325 80 75 94 77

3 300 115 75 97 70

4 325 115 20 87 70

decreasing surface gloss with increasing formulation HDT (see Figure 7, p. 31). From these results, it is clear that, at a given processing condition, the GFHFD materials with lower HDT remain in a molten state for a longer time during injection molding, which allows the resin to flow around the glass fibers and yield a more resin-rich surface. Therefore, the combination of lower HDT and higher melt flow (ability to mold at faster injection speeds) enables the glass-filled HFD copolymer compositions to yield a higher gloss surface compared to an equivalent glass-filled standard polycarbonate material.

In general, increasing resin melt temperature, mold temperature, and injection speed results in an increase in surface gloss and improved aesthetic appearance.

5 325 115 75 101 78

6 325 115 125 103 91

injection speed results in an increase in surface gloss and improved aesthetic appearance. Due to their higher flow and lower HDT properties, the glassfilled HFD copolymer materials offer a broader injection molding process window to achieve a higher gloss surface. For more information, contact SABIC Innovative Plastics at One Plastics Ave., Pittsfield, MA 01201; call (413) 448-7110; or visit the website at www.sabic-ip.com.

AUTHOR’S NOTES The author would like to acknowledge Don Wedding and Mike Oeth for their work in formulating/compounding the test materials and performing the injection molding studies. Figures and tables are provided for general information only and are not for the purpose of warranty or specification. In all applications, testing of a part in end use conditions is strongly recommended.

REFERENCES 1. LeGrand, D. G., Bendler, J. T., Handbook of Polycarbonate Science and Technology, 2000, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York.

ingly. When the injection speed was raised (125 mm/s), a consistently high surface gloss was observed across the entire MVR range. These results indicate that the in-mold pressure, which is a function of both resin melt viscosity as well as injection molding speed, is a key contributor to achieving higher surface gloss. A material with a higher MVR, such as the glass-filled HFD compositions, allows for larger/thinner wall parts and faster injection speeds, which can potentially improve molding cycle time and productivity. In the second set of experiments, a range of 20% glass-filled HFD copolymer compositions were compounded at the same MVR target (11 cm3/10 min at 300°C/1.2 kg) but with varying HDT targets. Injection molding studies on these materials at a fixed set of process conditions resulted in a clear trend, showing 32

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

CONCLUSION In summary, the fiber glass-filled HFD polycarbonate copolymer materials are characterized by significantly higher melt flow compared to their equivalent glass-filled standard polycarbonate samples. The GFHFD compounds show 11-18°C lower HDT compared to the GFPC products, but have relatively similar impact, mechanical, and dimensional stability properties. The glass-filled HFD copolymer materials allow for longer practical injection molding flow lengths and part thickness reduction. In addition, the glass-filled HFD samples yield improved surface gloss in injection molded plaques compared to the standard glassfilled PC materials. In general, increasing resin melt temperature, mold temperature, and

2. Schweizer, R. A., Winterman, A. W., Thermoplastic Polymer Additives, 1989, Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York. 3. Ramsteiner, F., Theysohn, R., Composites Sci. and Tech., 1985, 24, 231-240. 4. Gallucci, R. R, “Short Fiber Glass Reinforcement of Ductile Resins,” ANTEC 2004. 5. Parkar, A., Nunn, R. E., Orroth, S. A., “Fiber Length Degradation in the Feed Zone During Injection Molding,” ANTEC, 1994. 6. Wolf, H. J., Kunstoffe, 1993, 83, 69-72. 7. Gemmell, L. M., Tennant, O. W., Gallucci, R. R., U.S. Patent 5,384,353. 8. Goldberg, E. P., U.S. Patent 3,169,121. 9. Fontana, L. P., Buckley, P. W., U.S. Patent 5,025,081. 10. Fontana, L. P., Morioka, M., U.S. Patent 5,106,904. 11. Fontana, L. P., Reed, R. A., U.S. Patent 5,455,323. 12. Hoover, J. F., Fontana, L. P., U.S. Patent 5,608,026. 13. Dan, W. H., Patterson, D. J., Boutni, O. M., Fontana, L. P., U.S. Patent 5,777,009. 14. Malinoski, J. M, “Physical and Mechanical Properties of New High-Flow Polycarbonate Copolymers,” ANTEC, 2010.

January 2012

Keep That Laboratory Notebook! The America Invents Act will drastically change the way patents and trade secrets are handled. By Paul Dalley, J.D., President, Dalley Patent Services n September 16, 2011, President Obama signed the America Invents Act into law. The act is the most sweeping reform to the existing Patent Act since 1952. Many legal commentators state that the new act is merely a codification of current practice under the old act and the judicial decisions that have further defined the law. Nonetheless, the changes are dramatic: the U.S. now grants patents to the first inventor to file, rather than the first to invent, and trade secret holders now have a defense against infringement.

O

FIRST TO FILE Until the passage of the act, America was a “first-to-invent” country. That is, the first individual to invent something was the person entitled to patent the invention. If another person filed first, the original inventor could overcome the other’s patent by antedating the patent. Antedating was established by proving that the original inventor conceived of the invention and diligently reduced the invention to practice before the filing date of the other person’s patent. Antedating required an inventor to keep a detailed laboratory notebook. Many of the common practices of keeping a laboratory notebook are a result of the former patent statute. Some of these common practices include signing and dating each page of the notebook, having a space for a witness to sign, and including one project per page. A detailed laboratory notebook was a key piece of evidence used to antedate a patent. Another common practice was the invention record report, which was a separate document used to describe an invention deemed to be of particular importance that should be reviewed for patenting. In the end, the two methods served the same purpose—to document when the invention was made. January 2012

The U.S. is now a “first-to-file” country, so antedating is no longer available. Only the first inventor to file will receive the patent. Thus, an inventor should file first—and often. This does not mean that inventors should dispense with their carefully written notebooks or invention record reports. As in the old statute, only the inventor (or his assignee) is entitled to a patent. The inventor’s identity must be established. Laboratory notebooks and invention record reports are necessary to determine this information. The act also provides for prior user rights. Prior use is a defense against infringement for those inventions kept as trade secrets. Laboratory notebooks and invention record reports are also helpful for that defense.

NOVELTY, THEN AND NOW Under the act, an inventor shall be granted a patent “unless the claimed invention was patented, described in a printed publication, or in public use, on sale, or otherwise available to the public before the effective filing date of the claimed invention.” The former list describes the “novelty” requirements for an invention. Better yet, these considerations should be thought of as bars to obtaining a patent. Thus, if your invention was published in a printed publication, or on sale, or in public use before you file, you cannot obtain a patent. Under the old statute, inventors had one year to file after publishing, selling or using their invention publicly. The same grace periods appear to be available under the act. However, specific grace periods for each bar are not given. Rather, there is a grace period for disclosures made by the inventor or by others derived from the inventor. But what does “disclosure” entail? Under the old statute, “on sale” and “public use” are mentioned specifically with respect to the 12-month grace period. According to legal Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

33

KEEP THAT LABORATORY NOTEBOOK! PRIOR USE: A DEFENSE FOR TRADE SECRET OWNERS

commentators, it appears that Congress has lumped the former bars together under the new act and called them disclosures. In the end, it will be up to

om

mag.c

sives

2007

• ww

U End g atin

rpor

Inco

SUBSCRIBE

•

ser

he w.ad

ary

Janu

cts

du

ro dp

oo n/w

o cti

tru

s on

the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit or the Supreme Court to decide. With a first-to-file system, then, the best advice is to file.

I’ve previously written that a patent owner could sue a holder of a trade secret for the same invention for infringement (“Shhh… It’s a Secret,” ASI July 2011). Until passage of the America Invents Act, trade secret holders had little protection to keep practicing their trade secret once it was patented. Unless the trade secret was a method of doing business, the holder’s options were to pay a license fee to the patent owner to keep using their trade secret (which is no longer a secret); or to pursue litigation to invalidate the patent for lack of novelty. Either way, the patenting of a trade secret was a big loss for the trade secret holder. In addition to being forced to pay a license fee (or pay for a legal defense), the trade secret is no longer a secret. Patenting a trade secret puts the trade secret into the public domain. Only the patent holder may exploit the nowdefunct trade secret for the term patent; however, the “trade secret” is no longer a secret. Loss of secrecy devalues a trade secret as a business interest, because it is

c

try

N mis E e h E RC

g agin Pack and sinng iivvves ssi ess s aper P Proc f Adhesi rd a o t Aw lquis Dahlq PSTCC

G

online

at www.adhesivesmag.com/subscribe

Adhesives & Sealants Industry is a FREE magazine serving global manufacturers, formulators and end users of adhesives and sealants, pressure sensitives, and other adhesive/sealant products.

June 2006 • www.adhesivesmag.com •

Sep tem

ber 2006

• ww w.a

dhe sive

sma g.co

m•

Start your FREE subscription to today! Don’t forget to sign up to ASI’s free eNewsletter. www.adhesivesmag.com/subscribe

34

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

asi subscribe-.5H.indd 1

January 2012 9/9/11 1:28 PM

no longer a protectable interest. Once an interest is no longer protectable, employees are free to leave and practice the former secret at a competitor’s business. Any term of non-compete or non-disclosure agreement covering the former trade secret is void by an act of law (i.e., the patent statute). Moreover, only the patent owner can defend the patent. If the patent owner chooses not to do so in that specific instance, the former employer is out of luck. The choices are much better after the passage of the act. Using the trade secret in commerce is a defense to infringement, so the trade secret holder can continue to practice their secret without having to pay a license fee or be forced into expensive litigation. Although the invention may be in the public domain, the patent holder may at least prevent former employees from practicing the trade secret with his competitors. It might be a good idea to negotiate a license with the patent that allows the trade secret holder to defend the patent. In this way, the trade secret holder can protect their former “secret” without relying on the patent holder.

However, the prior use defense is not a gift. First, it is personal to the trade secret owner and cannot be transferred to another by a license. The defense can only be transferred if the entire concern or the entire line of business is transferred. In addition, the defense can only be raised “if such person, acting in good faith, commercially used the subject matter in the U.S. ... and the commercial use occurred at least one year before the earlier of (a) the effective filing date of the invention; or (b) the date when the invention was first disclosed to the public.” Under the act, it is best to both file first and commercialize first. The defense is limited to those sites where the commercial use was being practiced at the time of filing or at the time of the sale of the business or business line. In addition to maintaining good laboratory notebooks and invention record reports, it is important to keep records documenting commercial use. The prior use defense is an affirmative defense, which means that the burden is on the defendant infringer to establish

Over 25 years I have attended or exhibited at trade shows in many sectors around the world. I never thought that there could be a virtual equivalent to a physical show until Tech ManufactureXPO. I made a good number of contacts and had some very interesting discussions. The content, quality of exhibitors and the mechanics of navigating the show were excellent. It was well worth my time. Congratulations on an innovative event! Zito, W.E.S.T. Forwarding Services - D.Paul Zit

prior use through “clear and convincing evidence.” Thus, the mere assertion of commercial use is insufficient. All patent infringement cases are document cases. They are won and lost on the written record. Good documentation that clearly establishes the first date of commercialization and the sites at which commercialization occurred will go a long way toward successfully asserting a prior use defense and allowing the trade secret holder to continue reaping the benefit of their trade secret.

FIRST, FIRST AND FIRST For the adhesive and sealants industry, the takeaway is: Do it first. File your patent application first. If you want to protect your trade secret, commercialize it first. Remember that the lynchpin of patent litigation—then and now—is the filing date of the patent. What you do before the effective filing date is protected, but after is infringement. So file first and commercialize first. For more information, contact the author at paul@ dalleylaw.com.

E E R F

t!

n l eve a u t r i

v

Media Sponsors:

An educational virtual event covering trends in manufacturing from design to delivery. No travel or registration fees so you can attend with your whole team No time spent out of the office Reach multiple suppliers with the click of a button (more than ten are already signed up!)

Chat one-on-one with your manufacturing peers Download free whitepapers, case studies and new product information Live Presentations Listen to How-To Podcasts from manufacturing experts

SAVE THE DATE: Wednesday, May 2, 2012 | 8:30am – 3:30pm EDT www.TechManufactureXPO.com Get show announcements! Snap the tag to follow @AssemblyMag1 on

January 2012

Event Sponsor:

Exhibitors:

DELTA REGIS Tools Inc.

Interested in Exhibiting? Sarah Gorajek, Online Events Manager Tech ManufactureXPO (248) 786 - 1671• [email protected]

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

35

An independent public health and environmental organization is helping to set the sustainability standard. By Greta Houlahan, Senior Communications Manager; Mindy Costello, Standards Specialist; Diane Haworth, Marketing Manager; and Jane Wilson, Director of Standards, NSF International he number of “green” products in the marketplace continues to increase, yet consumer confidence in green marketing claims is declining due to confusion regarding multiple eco-labels, unsubstantiated claims, and a lack of consensus regarding how to evaluate green or sustainable products and services. According to a study by BBMG in New York, nearly one in four U.S. consumers report having “no way of knowing” if a product is green or actually does what it claims. This finding is consistent with a study from Ipsos Public Affairs, which states “a perceived lack of information and credible resources are holding U.S. businesses back from becoming environmentally responsible.” However, the Ipsos survey finds that 85% of respondents are interested in obtaining knowledge and resources about how their business can be more environmentally responsible. Several national sustainability standards have been developed to help businesses become greener and restore confidence in green claims. These lifecycle-based, multi-attribute sustainability standards have been developed for carpet, resilient flooring, wallcoverings, roofing membranes, commercial furnishing fabrics and business furniture, among other products.

T

CARPET The American National Standard for Carpet (NSF/ANSI 140 Sustainability Assessment for Carpet) is designed to help architects, designers and end users identify carpets that have a reduced environmental impact. The standard defines environmental, social, and economic performance requirements, and provides benchmarks for continual improvement and innovation within the building industry. This is important because all broadloom and carpet tile purchased by the U.S. government must now be certified to the standard, according to the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). Current GSA carpet suppliers have until January 1, 2012, 36

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

to certify their products to NSF/ANSI 140 Gold level in order for their carpets to be considered for purchase through the GSA.

RESILIENT FLOORING Complementing the standard for carpet, NSF/ANSI 332 Sustainability Assessment for Resilient Floor Coverings evaluates the sustainability of resilient flooring products across their entire product lifecycle. The standard employs an easy-to-use point system to evaluate resilient flooring against established prerequisite requirements, performance criteria, and quantifiable metrics in six key areas: product design, product manufacturing, long-term value, end-of-life management, corporate governance, and innovation. Certification is based on point totals to achieve a Conformant, Silver, Gold or Platinum level.

WALLCOVERINGS In addition to resilient flooring and carpets, NSF International also has developed an American National Standard for Sustainable Wallcoverings (NSF/ANSI 342 Sustainability Assessment for Wallcovering Products). Like the sustainable carpet standard, the wallcovering standard evaluates the environmental performance and sustainability attributes of wallcoverings. The standard contains criteria across the product lifecycle, from raw material extraction through manufacturing, distribution, use and end-of-life management, including: • Raw material inputs (fibers, resins, additives, colorants and process chemicals) • Fabric or sheet formation (textiles) • Finishing treatments (flame resistance) • Attachment systems (adhesives) • Product distribution • Recycling • Indoor air quality January 2012

SINGLE-PLY ROOFING MEMBRANES NSF 347 Sustainability Assessment for Single-Ply Roofing Membranes, a standard to evaluate the sustainability of singleply roofing membranes across their entire product lifecycle, is currently under development. According to the draft standard, single-ply roofing membrane includes membranes produced from ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), ketone ethylene ester (KEE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), and polyisobutylene (PIB) products.

Companies that integrate sustainability into their product offerings and operations can capitalize on the rapidly changing purchasing preferences of industry, government, and consumers. NSF 347 uses an easy-to-use weighted point system. Roofing membrane products are evaluated against established prerequisite requirements, performance criteria and quantifiable metrics in five key areas: product design, product manufacturing, membrane durability, corporate governance, and innovation. Criteria examples in product manufacturing include reducing the environmental impact of the energy used to manufacture the product, waste minimization, water conservation and greenhouse gas reductions.

COMMERCIAL FURNISHINGS FABRIC NSF/ANSI 336: Sustainability Assessment for Commercial Furnishings Fabric addresses the environmental, economic and social aspects of furnishing fabric products, including woven, nonwoven, bonded and knitted fabrics used for upholstery (e.g., office and hotel furniture), vertical (e.g., drapery or panel systems fabric) and decorative top-of-bed applications (e.g., bedspreads) that are commonly used in institutional, hospitality, and office settings. The standard incorporates lifecycle assessment criteria, which measures inputs, outputs and environmental impacts of textile products across their entire lifespan. January 2012

The NSF/ANSI 336 criteria are divided into categories (e.g., fiber sourcing, water and energy use, recycling practices) with a weighted point system applied to each. For example, fiber sourcing criteria include points for the use of fibers with renewable, recycled or organic content, and fibers with reduced toxic chemical inputs. Certification is based on point totals to achieve a Compliant, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. Manufacturers certified by NSF are authorized to use the NSF Sustainability Certified Mark on their products and in their advertising.

BUSINESS FURNITURE In order to help move the business/institutional furniture industry toward more sustainable practices, BIFMA International and NSF International partnered to develop a national standard for the production of sustainable office/institutional furniture. The BIFMA e3 sustainability standard establishes performance requirements that address the triple bottom line—economic-environment-social equity—throughout the supply chain. The standard includes prerequisite requirements, performance requirements and quantifiable metrics in four key areas: • Material utilization • Energy and atmosphere impacts • Human and ecosystem health • Social responsibility B I F M A’s l e v e l ™ i s a p r o d u c t certification program modeled after

LEED, with specific prerequisites, optional credits, and three conformance levels defined by BIFMA e3, with level™ 3 certification being the highest certification that offers buyers confidence and credibility in a market awash with green claims.

STANDARDIZED EXCELLENCE By providing science-based verifiable claim substantiation and product differentiation, multi-attribute standards are changing the marketplace and will continue to do so. In addition, standards certified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) are consensus-based, transparent standards that enable the comparison of products against common criteria. Standardized, objective methods of measuring sustainability claims reduce investment risk, instill marketplace confidence, and promote the acceptance of green products and services. Companies that integrate sustainability into their product offerings and operations can capitalize on the rapidly changing purchasing preferences of industry, government, and consumers. Additional benefits to the manufacturer accrue from the lifecycle focus, which can help identify areas for cost savings, quality improvement and even risk management. For additional information, visit www.nsfsustainability.org.

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

37

Manufacturers can use technology to help weather the economic downturn. By Alison Falco, President, Dynamic Systems Inc. anufacturers implementing technology for financial reporting purposes often overlook efficiencies that can generate cash flow and reduce costs on the manufacturing floor. Accurate information that provides a business owner with the ability to make immediate, profit-boosting decisions about their operation is crucial during an economic downturn. If revenue is down and the market mood does

nue. Your business cannot survive unless you know where your assets are and how they can be used efficiently. Imagine being able to view the location of your tools and equipment at any moment so you can plan to transfer them to the next job. The ability to locate a unique asset when it is required on another active job helps to avoid downtime. What if you knew exactly how many hours were spent on each

Making employees’ jobs easier by ensuring that they have what they need to perform at their best reduces stress.

Barcode technology has been actively used for over 20 years in manufacturing, distribution, and retail to track inventory and jobs.

not permit price increases, then profitability can only be realized by reducing costs. You must ask yourself, “What prevents me from 100% efficiency?”

step in the assembly process and where the bottlenecks were? Inefficient situations can cause accelerated costs and reduced productivity. Take a proactive approach by developing a plan. Under normal circumstances, a business owner/manager reviews financial information, overhead and direct operating margin at the end of a month or quarter. But this economy does not constitute “normal” circum-

M

DEVELOPING A PLAN Focus on “faster and better.” Every asset, machine, tool, and person you have must be accountable and cycle more quickly. An airline cannot survive when planes are not in the air producing reve38

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

stances. “Companies must plan their destiny and not look in the rearview mirror,” says Bill Allen of W.A. Allen Consulting. “Instead of flying blind until a work order is completed, it’s time to operate from a plan. Understand what prevents you from 100% efficiency.” Buy-in happens from the top down. Start by developing a culture that compels events to conform to your plan. Anything that deviates from the plan is an opportunity for cost savings and efficiencies. Do you have too much time loss in non-direct labor areas (i.e., idle or downtime)? By evaluating what interrupts the workflow on a daily basis, you can uncover areas that, with improvement, will provide an increased bottom line. It is up to the company to make a conscious decision to manage from a plan—and hold all employees accountable for following the plan—rather than react to circumstances. This transition will be easier with the adoption of the appropriate technological tools.

IDENTIFYING PROBLEM AREAS Evaluate your operations to determine where your technology dollars are best spent. For instance, can you reduce or minimize the time spent looking for machines, tools and other assets? Is it possible to plan maintenance and calibration to avoid machine downtime? A barcode tracking system can show where assets are at the time they are needed by tracing which job they were checked out for and by whom. In addition, an integrated maintenance scheduler flags January 2012

required maintenance as it is due and ensures OSHA compliance. Proper control of tools and inventory prevents costs that result from hoarding, irresponsibility or downright theft. It is up to the company management to declare that shrinkage is unacceptable and hold employees accountable for losses that are under their control. This policy is given “teeth” when assets and inventories can be effectively tracked using technology. Bottlenecks in the production process slow down productivity. Although you may not be aware of all the bottlenecks in production, these are probably the most important variables. What are your capacities for output, and what is the optimal load of people, machines and tools to meet 100% capacity? How do you route the work to prevent downtime? A computerized system that tracks labor hours to a specific function within the assembly process and on the fly will help prevent these costly issues by identifying those points where workflow gets interrupted. Does your staff spend unproductive minutes (or hours) manually recording transactions? Work hours devoted to manual recording and recordkeeping do nothing to increase revenue or control costs. Technology can provide the integrated systems control over asset use, capacity, maintenance, and location— and do it 24/7.

the scheduler and production manager the stage of each work order in the production process at any moment. An inventory control software package accounts for stock parts and produces alerts when it’s time to reorder. It can issue parts to a work order or job and confirm that the correct items have been pulled. The software keeps track of finished goods inventories and reports replenishment requirements. Barcoded inventory makes it quick and easy to take an inventory count. Barcode technology has been actively used for over 20 years in manufacturing, distribution, and retail to track inventory and jobs. The barcode terminals are similar to PDAs and provide immediate and accurate information. Barcode labels can be designed to withstand the dirt, grease and rough use experienced in many harsh environments, while other labels can be printed on a laser printer. Barcodes can easily be added to work orders in the form of a laser “font,” which allows parts, jobs, etc. to be barcoded on the work order.

ing that they have what they need to perform at their best reduces stress. Showing employees that you are taking steps to increase profitability will provide them with more confidence in the company. “Our…ability to readily locate critical tools, monitor routine maintenance schedules, and track broken equipment has saved countless labor hours and lowered the frustration level of our shop employees,” says Thomas Hortman, Project Manager for AAI Services Corp., a Division of Textron Systems. “By providing our employees with an efficient method for obtaining, maintaining, and tracking tools and equipment, the CheckMate Tool Tracking System has effectively helped lower our operating costs.” While technology won’t cure the credit crunch manufacturers are facing, automated processes that improve cash flow and keep lenders in the loop demonstrate that a business “has its act together” and can go a long way in convincing lenders that their risk is low.

SIMPLIFYING THE JOB

For additional information, contact Dynamic Systems Inc. at

Making employees’ jobs easier by ensur-

(800) 342-3999, ext. 208, or visit www.a-barcode.com.

CONSULTING BY “DR. DAVE” Adhesives and Sealants-Technology, Applications and Markets

IMPLEMENTING NEW TECHNOLOGY You don’t have to be one of the “big guys” to afford technology. Today, reasonably priced systems are available to help avoid many of the costs consumed by inefficiencies in operations. Such systems can be purchased as stand-alone entities that are focused on one aspect of the business. Deciding where to start depends on which areas are losing the most money. A time and attendance software package helps identify who is working when, on what job, and for how long, and can produce reports for payroll. It can be set up to account automatically for start and end times, breaks, lunch, etc. to reduce the time employees spend recording their time. Barcode scanning makes the input fast and easy. Job costing software adds the ability to track inventory costs plus the labor hours consumed against the specific job while the job is in progress. Similarly, work in process (WIP) software is a subset of job costing and tracks a specific work order through the production process. It tells January 2012

Dr. Dave Dunn writes the monthly “Questions and Answers” column in Adhesives & Sealants Industry magazine, and is a unique source of both technical and management consulting for the adhesives and sealants industry. Technical Consulting • Formulation advice • Sourcing information • New developments • Application development • Application troubleshooting • Problem solving Market Research • Opportunity analysis • Customer surveys • Mergers and acquisitions • New developments • Market analysis • Industry structure • Competitive intelligence • Key trends

Technology Focus • Anaerobics • Cyanoacrylates • Reactive acrylics • Epoxies • Hot melts • Gasketing Market Focus • Industrial • Automotive OEM • Automotive aftermarket • Medical • Construction Management Consulting Innovation can be planned and managed to meet the strategic goals of a company. We have concentrated on integrating the R&D functions of companies into their strategic plans and putting systems in place to continuously measure the effectiveness of investments in R&D.

About the principal… Dr. Dave Dunn is President of F.L.D. Enterprises, which is located near Akron, Ohio, USA. He is a former Vice President and Director of Loctite Corporation and has consulted for many adhesives and sealants manufacturers and users in both North America and Europe. He is the author of several books and many articles, including the recent book Adhesives and Sealants-Technology, Applications and Markets, published by Rapra Technology Ltd. (www.polymer-books.com). F.L.D. Enterprises Inc. 242 Trails End Aurora OH 44202 Tel. 330-562-2930 FAX 330-247-1690 e-mail [email protected] web site www.fldenterprises.com

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

39

Occupational hearing loss costs workplaces an average of $242 million a year in workers’ compensation claims alone. By Mike Rich, Marketing, Safety Services Co. ne of the largest safety risks for the North American manufacturing industry is occupational hearing loss, which accounts for roughly one in every nine illnesses reported through Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) forms. In order for a person’s hearing loss to be recorded by OSHA, however, it must be determined to be work related, and the hearing loss must be severe enough that the worker has become hearing impaired. This means the true number of employees suffering hearing loss is actually much higher.

O

FINANCIAL IMPACT While the number of employees suffering from hearing loss is staggering, the financial impact of the illness is even greater. Occupational hearing loss costs workplaces an average of $242 million a year in workers’ compensation claims alone. Yet this figure does not include medical or personal costs, which can cause the true financial impact of hearing loss to more than double. One example of the true impact of hearing loss is illustrated by a five-year study conducted in British Columbia. During this timeframe, the workers’ compensation board paid $18 million in disability awards to workers suffering hearing loss. An additional $36 million was paid out for hearing aids. In another example, the U.S. Army saved $504.3 million by reducing hearing loss among combat arms personnel between 1974 and 1994. The good news is that these costs and injuries are a preventable phenomenon.

SECURING PROTECTION

Earmuffs consist of sound-attenuating material and soft ear cushions that fit around the ear inside hard outer cups.

40

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

Studies by OSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that occupational hearing loss occurs when employees are exposed to noise 85 decibels and above for a timeframe of eight hours. (Table 1 lists decibel levels for some common noises.) Signs that noise may be a problem in the workplace include: • Employees hear ringing or humming in their ears when they leave work. • Employees have to shout to be heard by a coworker an arm’s length away. • Employees experience temporary hearing loss when leaving work. January 2012

The rate of hearing loss for employees exposed to these conditions is highest during the first 10 years of exposure, which means that hearing loss prevention is especially important for new workers. However, with continued exposure, the hearing loss spreads into those frequencies most needed to understand speech, so preventing occupational hearing loss is also important for workers in their middle and late careers. To protect both new and existing employees from hearing loss, it is important to have a hearing conservation program in place that addresses administrative controls, engineering controls, hearing protection, and education.

ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS Administrative controls are changes in the workplace that reduce or eliminate worker exposure to noise. Examples include: • Operating noisy machines during shifts when fewer people are exposed. • Limiting the amount of time a person spends at a noise source. • Providing quiet areas where workers can gain relief from hazardous noise sources. For example, a soundproof or enclosed break room can keep noise significantly below hazardous levels. • Restricting worker presence to a suitable distance away from noisy equipment. This effective (yet simple and inexpensive) administrative control is applicable when workers are present but are not actually working with a noise source or equipment. In open space, for each doubling of the distance between the source of noise and the worker, the noise is decreased by 6 dBA.

ENGINEERING CONTROLS Engineering controls involve modifying or replacing equipment or making related physical changes at the noise source (or along the transmission path) to reduce the noise level at the worker’s ear. In some instances, the application of a relatively simple engineering noise control solution reduces the noise to the point that no further noise protection is necessary. Examples of inexpensive yet effective engineering controls include some of the following: • Choosing low-noise tools and machinery. • Maintaining and lubricating machinery and equipment (e.g., oil bearings). • Placing a barrier between the noise source and employee (e.g., sound walls or curtains). • Enclosing or isolating the noise source.

HEARING PROTECTION DEVICES Hearing protection devices (HPDs), such as earmuffs and plugs, are considered an acceptable but less desirable option to control exposures to noise. These options are generally used when administrative controls are not feasible or not suitable alone to reduce noise to acceptable limits. Ear plugs are inserted to block the ear canal. They may be premolded (preformed) or moldable (foam ear plugs). Ear plugs are sold as disposable products or reusable plugs. Custom molded ear plugs are also available. Semi-insert ear plugs consist of two ear plugs held over the ends of the ear canal by a rigid headband. Earmuffs consist of sound-attenuating material and soft ear cushions that fit around the ear inside hard outer cups. They are held together by a headband. The effectiveness of hearing protection is greatly reduced if the hearing protectors do not fit properly or if they are worn only during periods of noise exposure. To maintain the effectiveness of hearing protection devices, they should not be modified. January 2012

EAR PROCTECTION Employees should know which noises can cause damage and wear ear plugs when they are involved in a loud activity. 110 Decibels: Regular exposure of more than 1 minute risks permanent hearing loss. 100 Decibels: No more than 15 minutes of unprotected exposure recommended. 85 Decibels: Prolonged exposure to any noise at or above 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing loss. Ear plugs may be premolded (preformed) or moldable (foam ear plugs).

Selecting an HPD involves a number of factors, including the level of noise, comfort, and the suitability of the hearing protector for both the worker and their environment. Most importantly, the hearing protector should provide the desired noise reduction. The product’s noise reduction rating (NRR) is based on the amount of noise the device will eliminate. NIOSH recommends that the labeled noise reduction value be de-rated as follows: • Earmuffs: subtract 25% from the manufacturer’s labeled NRR • Formable earplugs: subtract 50% from the manufacturer’s labeled NRR • All other earplugs: subtract 70% from the manufacturer’s labeled NRR For example, a set of earmuffs rated to reduce noise by 100 dB would be viewed as reducing noise by 75 dB.

EDUCATION Education is one of the most important aspects of a hearing conservation program. During the educational component of the program, employees must be taught administrative controls, engineering controls and the proper use of hearing protection equipment. In addition to these three topics, it is important to discuss the potential for hearing loss in the workplace, signs of hearing loss and any other pertinent information. This training should be provided upon hire and then again a minimum of once per year to remind employees of the importance of hearing protection. Manufacturers should document every time employee training is conducted, and post notices in areas that have high levels of noise to remind employees to wear hearing protection equipment. Beyond these hearing conservation program requirements, employers must conduct workplace noise sampling, which includes personal noise monitoring to identify those employees who are at risk from hazardous levels of noise. Employers also need to maintain a worker audiometric testing program (hearing tests) in order to professionally evaluate the health effects of noise upon individual worker’s hearing and implement comprehensive hearing protection follow-up procedures for workers who show a loss of hearing (standard threshold shift) after completing baseline (first) and yearly audiometric testing. The entire program should be in writing and updated annually. For additional information, contact the author at [email protected].

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

41

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT • Lowers application costs • Pre-measured components assure precise, accurate, consistent proportions • Safe, reliable and easy one-shot usage Additional benefits include reduced material costs, greater workplace safety, protection against moisture and fast turnaround.

The A-PAK with needle adaptor is being introduced to help fill a

PRECISE CONTROL

need in the electronics market with high-end

A-PAK with needle adaptor improves accuracy and lowers costs.

dhesive Packaging Specialties Inc. (APS) recently introduced the new A-PAK® with needle adaptor, which reportedly offers the advantages of a syringe applicator to allow for pin-point accuracy. As a result, the A-PAK provides an environmentally friendly alternative. Initially designed for high-end optical/conductive materials, it is offered in sizes from 2-9 g. The syringe has been combined with the advanced packaging technique, using a “burst” seal for instant mixing/ dispensing of two-part resin systems. The A-PAK burst seal pouch is a versatile package designed to hold pre-measured amounts of unmixed resin and catalyst in quantities ranging from 1-500 g in

A

any ratio. Materials typically packaged include adhesives, epoxies, greases, inks, lubricants, sealants, silicones and more. A-PAK features include: • Materials can be packaged in any ratio • Easily handles wide range of viscosities • Self-contained package • Mixes and dispenses reactive resin systems • Disposable packages (no messy cleanup) • Eliminates measuring and handling of materials • Eliminates mess and waste • Improved shelf life for reactive and moisture-sensitive materials • Industrial and consumer use

materials.

“The A-PAK with needle adaptor is being introduced to help fill a need in the electronics market with high-end materials,” said Stephen Buchanan, president. “Small amounts of materials are dispensed with precision and control, which gives the operator an easy mix and use from a pre-measured kit for production and repair work. In addition, there are no spent syringes or cartridges to dispose of after use. We feel that there is a definite need with an application this precise.” For more information, phone (800) 222-1117; fax (978) 532-8901; email [email protected]; or visit www.adhesivepackaging.com.

SHARE THE NEWS Has your company introduced a new product or developed a technology upgrade? Send product news releases to Teresa McPherson, managing editor, at [email protected]. 42

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

January 2012

WHAT’S NEW RAW MATERIALS CRODA POLYMERIC DISPERSANT

ZEPHRYM PD 4974 is a low-VOC, high-performance polymeric dispersant designed for iron oxide pigments. The material reportedly offers excellent ability to provide formulation stability in systems containing iron oxide pigments. It shows improved dispersion stability compared to competitive materials. Web: www.crodacoatingsandpolymers.com

DOW COATING MATERIALS RHEOLOGY MODIFIER

ACRYSOL™ DR-110 rheology modifier is a new HASE product that offers architectural paint formulators an alternative to hydrophobically modified hydroxyethyl cellulose (HMHEC). The product is now available for sampling. The rheology modifier is manufactured without added solvent or the use of APEO surfactants. It is available in a high-solids, all-liquid form that can be added during any stage of paint making, including the letdown. In many formulations, it reportedly builds viscosity with noticeably better efficiency than either HMHEC or HEC, resulting in notable use-cost savings. Web: www.dowcoatingmaterials.com

EMERALD LATIN AMERICA DEFOAMER

This company, a subsidiary of Emerald Performance Materials, offers ANTAROL™ FJ601, a new defoamer that meets the performance challenges of today’s low-VOC waterborne architectural coatings. The material is reportedly a highly effective, low-VOC defoamer tailored to meet the needs of coatings manufacturers in the Latin America market. Web: www.emeraldmaterials.com

offers enhanced labeling flexibility and the opportunity to differentiate products at a later stage in the packaging process. Web: www.averydennison.com

ELLSWORTH ADHESIVES AND DYMAX CORP. CONFORMAL COATING

These companies recently announced the joint launch of E-MAX 903-E, a new light-cure conformal coating. The coating, which will be distributed worldwide exclusively by Ellsworth Adhesives, was engineered to cure with UV and visible light using DYMAX’s broadspectrum and LED curing equipment. The product also features a secondary moisturecure mechanism for ambient cure in shadowed areas. E-MAX 903-E can reportedly provide high chemical resistance, low viscosity, and a tack-free cure immediately upon cooling after light exposure. Web: www.ellsworth.com

EQUIPMENT FISNAR® INC. DISPENSING ROBOT

The UNITOP™ F5200N is a versatile system that can be used either as a desktop or a gantry system, allowing users to create their workstation. The strength of the dispenser reportedly lies in its ability to create its own working area, enabling the system to be mounted to any work surface. The system can be used for use on any type of platform requiring a gantry-type mounting with open access under the robot. It can also be used for conveyor-fed automation. Phone: (973) 646-5044 Web: www.fisnar.com

CHARLES ROSS & SON CO.

FORMULATED ADHESIVES AVERY DENNISON PRESSURE-SENSITIVE LABELS

A new brand-enhancing pressure-sensitive labeling solution for meat and dairy packaging applications is now available. The patentpending Avery Dennison Shrink PS is engineered to survive the vacuum-shrink process without wrinkling, providing both shelf appeal and production-related benefits. The new labels are applied to shrinkable bags off- or in-line prior to filling and vacuum sealing. Compared with preprinted shrink-bag labeling, the Shrink PS solution reportedly January 2012

VESSELS

This company designs and builds custom fabricated tanks, stirred reactors, and pressure and storage vessels with capacities up to 70,000 gal. The tanks can be constructed for either horizontal or vertical installation and in any material of construction, from carbon steel and stainless steel to aluminum, titanium, Monel, Hastelloy, and Inconel. The following features are available on the fabricated vessels and reactors: • Charge and discharge ports • Vacuum and/or internal pressure design • Agitation system • Heating/cooling jacket or coils • Sheathing and insulation • ASME code stamp, as needed

• Other code requirements such as USFDA, BISSC, ABS, API650, API620 and U142 • Sanitary design • Special polishes and coatings • Mounting frames and brackets • Control systems Phone: (800) 243-7677 Web: www.mixers.com

SEALANT EQUIPMENT & ENGINEERING ROBOTIC DISPENSING SYSTEM

This company’s new dual-station XYZ robotic dispensing system is designed to improve adhesive dispensing and product assembly by eliminating problems such as the need to speed up production; adhesive out of position; too much or not enough adhesive; excess waste, scrap or repairs; and high production costs. The robotic dispensing systems can reportedly dispense one- and two-part adhesives and sealants such as silicone, epoxy, urethane and acrylic for bonding, gasketing, potting, encapsulating, molding, and sealing applications. The robot and dispensing system stores all the dispensing programs created for every different part; programs can be quickly recalled to start a production cycle. Web: www.sealantequipment.com

RESOURCES GABRIEL PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS NEWLY DESIGNED WEBSITE

This company recently announced the release of its newly designed website. The site reportedly reflects Gabriel’s extensive experience and leadership in specialty chemical manufacturing, and provides in-depth information on the company’s products and services. In addition, the site reportedly offers increased functionality and provides customers with access to critical product information. Web: www.gabepro.com

H.B. FULLER CO. MOBILE APP

This company has launched a mobile web app featuring its latest packaging adhesive products in North America. The app can provide access to product information and downloads, mileage performance calculations, and a packaging overview video. The mobile web app is compatible with iPad® tablets, iPhone® smartphones, Android™ phones, and BlackBerry® devices. Web: www.hbfuller.com/web-app Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

43

P R I VAT E L A B E L I N G S E R V I C E S

SERVICES MARKETPLACE D I S T R I B U T I O N S E RV I C E S Heigl Technologies ...................................................................................... 44

L A B O R AT O R Y & T E S T I N G S E R V I C E S Chemsultants International Network ............................................................ 44 Delsen Testing Laboratories .......................................................................... 44

M A N U FA C T U R I N G & P R O C E S S I N G S E R V I C E S Resin Lab .................................................................................................... 45

Seeking Private Label Business • Seeking new Private Label/toll manufacturing for solvent-free adhesives, sealants/coatings. • Leader in North American polyether technology • Multiple packaging configurations • Standard and custom formulations • Excellent turnaround w/newly expanded capacities • Dedicated R&D facility [email protected] 800-826-1681 • www.chemlinkinc.com

P R I VAT E L A B E L I N G S E R V I C E S ChemLink.................................................................................................... 44 Polymeric Systems, Inc. ............................................................................... 44asi0211class-chemlink.indd

1

1/5/11 9:33 AM

This index is a feature maintained for the convenience of the advertiser. It is not part of the advertiser’s contract, and ASI assumes no responsibility for its accuracy.

D I S T R I B U T I O N S E RV I C E S

CUSTOM DISTRIBUTION SERVICES

Heigl Adhesives will provide distribution services tailored to your manufacturing needs. *Epoxies *Hot Melts *Cyanacrylates *Anaerobics *Urethanes *Silicones

*PUR Hotmelt *Methacrylates *Dispensing *Needles and Syringes *UV’s *Potting Compounds

L A B O R AT O R Y & T E S T I N G S E R V I C E S

Please call for a proposal today! p.800.401.1441 www.heigladhesive.com f.952.943.1255 [email protected]

L A B O R AT O R Y & T E S T I N G S E R V I C E S asi1010SMS-Heigl.indd 1

9/7/10 10:28:37 AM

SPECIALISTS IN TESTING ADVANCED COMPOSITES Q Mechanical Testing Q Thermal Analysis Q Thermal Cycling QElectrical Properties

Q Metallography Q Flammability, Smoke Toxicity and OSU Heat Release

1024 Grand Central Avenue • Glendale, CA 91201 Internet: www.delsen.com • Fax: (818) 247-4537

888-433-5736 44

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

Subscribe or renew your ASI subscription online. www.subscribeforfree.com

Non Metallic Materials Testing

January 2012

M A N U FA C T U R I N G & P R O C E S S I N G S E R V I C E S

CLASSIFIEDS EXECUTIVE SEARCH

EXPERTS IN CUSTOM FORMULATION & TOLL MANUFACTURING We specialize in custom formulation of adhesives & encapsulants for electronic & general product assembly applications. t
'VMMZ
TUBòFE

FRVJQQFE

BOBMZUJDBM
MBC
GPS
UFDIOJDBM
TVQQPSU t
'BTU
SFTQPOTF
BOE
'3&&
JOJUJBM
TBNQMFT t
$BQBCMF
PG
QSPWJEJOH
CBUDIFT
GSPN
POF
RVBSU
UP
UPUFT t
&YQFSU
EPDVNFOUBUJPO

JODMVEJOH
$0"T
5%4T


.4%4T
()4

t
2VBMJUZ
FOTVSFE
XJUI
*40
RVBMJUZ
TZTUFN t
.BOZ
TQFDJBMUZ
QBDLBHJOH

PQUJPOT
BWBJMBCMF t
'VMM
QSPUFDUJPO
PG
JOUFMMFDUVBM

QSPQFSUZ
HVBSBOUFFE


1-877-259-1669 www.resinlab.com /
8
.PSTF
%SJWF
(FSNBOUPXO
8*



New & Used Equipent

FOR SALE

NEW 50, 100 & 200 GALLON DUAL SHAFT MIXERS IN STOCK

Hockmeyer

Equipment Corporation

A leader in the grinding and dispersion industries

• • • • • •

Immersion Mills Mixers Tank & Tote Washers Particle Size Analysis Dispersers Vessels

• Stainless Steel Wetted Parts • Constructed For Vacuum • Jacketed For Heating Or Cooling

HIGHEST QUALITY!

Visit Us At: www.hockmeyer.com or Call Us: 252-338-4705

Call Now!

1-800-243-ROSS USA Tel: 631-234-0500 • Fax: 631-234-0691

WANTED TO PURCHASE: Used Dispersers & Mixers

It’s time... ! green5/21/09 asi07091Hockmeyer-class.indd 1 to go

www.dualshaftmixers.com

Stainless IT

Stainless ITT

TM

High Speed Dispersion Blades

January 2012

P O S I T I O N AVA I L A B L E

NEW CAREER POSITIONS Be a part of a dynamic team in a research and product development environment. Share your ideas and concepts; collaborating with others to help solve customers’ problems through innovative solutions. Be trained and taught by generational leaders, and then carrying on that legacy. Chemical Engineer/Lab Chemist with MBA or other advanced degrees. Sales/Account Representatives with related associates degrees. Marketing/Public Relations Experts with social network/internet experience. RS Industrial, Inc., is a growth oriented adhesives company located in Buford, Ga. Recognized as a leader in developing innovative technologies, and for creating and manufacturing unique converted adhesive products. RS is looking for key team members to develop new industrial and retail divisions.

RS Industrial, Inc. is a drug free workplace.

CONN Blade®s

.NET

Find out more at www.quickblades.net new & used 877.618.8304

28052 Camino Capistrano, Suite 209 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 (949) 429-8813 • [email protected]

The Most Efficient & Aggressive Available

patent pending

BLADES

SEARCHLIGHT PARTNERS

If you are interested in finding out more about these new career opportunities, please forward your resume and salary requirement to: [email protected]

9:38:43 AM

‡6SHFLDOO\'HVLJQHG%ODGHDOORZVIRUKLJK HIILFLHQF\JULQGLQJRUGLVSHUVLRQZKLFK VDYHV\RXWLPHDQGHQHUJ\ ‡ 8VLQJ4XLFN%ODGHVGHFUHDVHVWKH QHHGWRXVHDPLOO ‡ :HRIIHU/DERUDWRU\ 3URGXFWLRQEODGHVZLWK VHYHUDOGHVLJQVWRFKRRVHIURP ‡ 6DPHGD\VKLSSLQJPRVWFDVHV

Specializing in adhesives/sealants industry. Seeking passionate, high-impact professionals for nationwide positions. Send your resume in confidence to: Spencer M. Hermann

UHMW Poly

www.connblade.com

(814) 723-7980

Submit Classified Ads Online Visit www.adhesivesmag.com and click on “Classified Ads” to place your ad today!

Adhesives & Sealants Industry

|

45

ASK

AD INDEX

DR.DAVE

QUESTION: What are your recommendations for threadlocking adhesives for titanium, preferably without an activator? What types and curing times are available? ANSWER: You can use all types of anaerobic threadFlexible PVC can lockers on titanium: low strength, medium strength or sometimes cause high strength. Bear in mind, however, that the cure time problems with of anaerobic adhesives is very adhesive bonding much affected by the type of metal being used. because of the Some metals, such as copper and iron, are called different types of “active” metals because they actually promote the curing plasticizers used. reaction, while other metals, such as aluminum and, unfortunately, titanium, are an inactive surface for anaerobic adhesives. Therefore, cure times will be longer with these metals compared to a steel or iron surface. Full cure may take several days, but the joints should cure fully. Surface activators will, of course, speed up the curing, but since you prefer not to use them, try heating the assembled parts to 100°C for two hours to get full cure.

Adhesive Packaging Specialties

www.adhesivepackaging.com

9

Adhesive & Sealant Council, Inc.

www.ascouncil.org/industry/conventions 4

Applied Test Systems, Inc.

www.atspa.com

22

Charles Ross & Son Co.

www.mixers.com

3

Conn & Co.

www.connblade.com

12

Dynasol

www.dynasolelastomers.com

16

F.E.I.C.A

www.wac2012.org

Imass, Inc.

www.imass.com

16

Kitpackers

www.kitpackers.com

22

Merlin Packaging Technologies, Inc.

www.merlinpackaging.com

13

Petro-Canada

http://lubricants.petro-canada.ca/puretol

BC

Poly-Clip Systems

www.polyclip.com

IFC

RadTech

www.radtech2012.com

Semco Packaging & Applications

www.semcopackaging.com

State Mix

www.statemix.com

IBC

QUESTION: We want to attach thin sheets of PVC to canvas fabric. Can you guide us regarding which kind of adhesive to use?

ASK

ANSWER: Flexible PVC can sometimes cause problems with adhesive bonding because of the different types of plasticizers used. (PVC plastic is basically a hard, brittle polymer and plasticizers are used to soften it.) Adhesives sometimes give an initially strong bond that breaks down with time because of migration of the plasticizer into the bond line. I would recommend trying a PVC solvent cement for your PVC-to-canvas application. Neoprene contact adhesives can also be used and are available in spray versions. You may have to try adhesives from more than one supplier to ensure compatibility with your particular flexible PVC.

DR.DAVE

Do You Have a Question for Dr. Dave?

Visit www.adhesivesmag.com and click on Ask Dr. Dave in the left-hand column.

27

7

Dr. Dave Dunn is a former vice president and director of Loctite Corp. and has spent many years troubleshooting adhesive and sealant problems in the adhesives, sealants, specialty rubbers, and plastics fields. Questions for publication

19

should be directed to him at 242 Trails End, Aurora, OH 44202; (330) 562-2930; FAX (330) 247-1690; email [email protected]; or visit www.fldenterprises.com. Any views or opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not represent those of Adhesives & Sealants Industry, its staff, Editorial Advisory Board or BNP Media.

46

|

www.adhesivesmag.com

This index is a feature maintained for the convenience of the advertiser. It is not part of the advertiser’s contract, and ASI assumes no responsibility for its accuracy.

January 2012

W AC 2012 World Adhesive & Sealant Conference Conference 18 – 21 September 2012

Expo 20 September 2012 (12:30 – 17:00h) Marriott Paris Rive Gauche Hotel and Conference Center Paris, France

www.wac2012.org

Official Media Partner of the WAC2012

On the surface all white mineral oils appear to be the same.

With PURETOL white mineral oils, your money goes farther because it’s buying much more than just another ingredient. You’re buying supply (we’re the world’s largest producer of white mineral oils). You’re buying quality (every PURETOL product is produced by us from start to USP/NF-certified finish). You’re buying support (world-class R&D and a dedicated team that knows its business – and yours). Want to go deeper? Purity You Can Count On

Petro-Canada is a Suncor Energy business ™Trademark of Suncor Energy Inc. Used under licence.

call: 1-866-335-3369 | e-mail: [email protected] | visit: lubricants.petro-canada.ca/puretol