The new LNP LUBRILOY products can meet customer demands for high-performance alternatives to materials lubricated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which is a per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS). These new grades extend SABIC’s LUBRILOY technology to additional base resins and feature a novel, patented lubrication technology enabling OEMs to help avoid health and regulatory issues associated with materials containing intentionally added PFAS.

“In the face of proposed European and individual U.S. state regulations severely restricting or banning the use of PFAS, customers in the healthcare industry and other markets are seeking self-lubricated solutions that don’t incorporate these chemicals,” noted Ralph R. Buoniconti, SABIC senior specialist, Regulatory. “SABIC has taken the lead in developing multiple new specialty compounds that can serve as alternatives to polymers lubricated with traditional PTFE. By expanding and enhancing our LNP LUBRILOY portfolio, SABIC aims to help customers successfully navigate the changing regulatory landscape for PFAS.”

Materials Deliver High Performance without PTFE

Internally lubricated thermoplastics have been used for years because of their advantages over externally applied greases or oils, which add processing time and costs and can transfer to and contaminate other surfaces. As an internal lubricant, PTFE is known for imparting very low friction and enhancing wear resistance. However, global concerns about PFAS have prompted customers in a wide range of industries to consider more-sustainable lubricants to replace PTFE.

“SABIC continues to add value to LNP specialty compounds in multiple ways – from expanded choice to improved regulatory compliance,” said Ed Williams, senior product manager, LNP Compounds, SABIC’s Specialties business. “Deep knowledge of polymer chemistry enabled our experts to achieve a milestone by developing a novel lubricant technology and incorporating it into multiple new base resins. Our new-generation LUBRILOY compounds offer customers the opportunity to achieve excellent wear and friction performance while easing concerns about anticipated restrictions on PFAS.”  

New Base Resins Offer Broader Choice

The new grades, which include unreinforced and reinforced products with up to 30 percent glass fiber, complement SABIC’s other grades for medical devices. The company’s diverse healthcare materials address a range of performance needs, including withstanding multiple sterilizations, resisting aggressive disinfectants, and improving wear and slip-stick performance in applications like drug delivery pens, gears and bearings.

These new compounds are versatile, with possible use in applications across multiple industries. Besides medical devices, they offer the potential for mobility, industrial and infrastructure applications such as automotive under-hood components and interior parts, water meters, conveyor belt guides and tensioners, and other moving parts.