More data on new LCP/PPS alloy.

Hoechst Celanese Corp., Chatham, N.J., is introducing Vectra V140, a new 40% glass-filled alloy that combines Vectra liquid-crystal polymer (LCP) with its Fortron polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). The material was unveiled earlier this year at a technology symposium in San Jose, Calif.

Priced at $6.85 lb/tl, the alloy is a less expensive alternative for injection molded electronic parts such as chip carriers, sockets, and coil bobbins that do not require all the performance of a pure LCP, according to Vectra senior product manager Joseph R. Carrizales.

The high cost (typically $8-10/lb) of LCPs has been a barrier to wider utilization of these resins (PT, April '90, p.93). Last year, Amoco Performance Products Inc., Atlanta, addressed this problem by introducing three lower-cost grades in its Xydar LCP line, priced between $5.25 and $6.95/lb (PT, Nov. '91, p. 12).

Hoechst Celanese suggests a melt-temperature range of 580-615 F for the new alloy, mold-temperature range of 140-300 F, and dehumidified drying at 250-275 F for 4 hr.

PROPERTIES OF VECTRA V140 LCP/PPS ALLOY
Specific Gravity                     1.67
Water Absorption, %                  0.02
Flex Modulus, psi                    2,400,000
Flex Strength, psi                   36,000
Tensile Strength, psi                24,000
Tensile Elongation, %                1.4
Notched Izod, ft-lb/in.              1.5
HDT, F(264 psi)                      510
Comparative Tracking Index, volts    175
Dielectric Constant (1 kHz)          3.7
Dielectric Strength, v/mil           600
UL Rating(1/64 in.)                  94V-0

While injection molding is the main emphasis for the new Vectra alloy, additional grades for blow molding and extrusion are being considered. A black version of the current natural-color alloy also is under development.