New technology from Arkema Inc., Philadelphia, allows foaming its Kynar PVDF fluoropolymers, paving the way for new applications for foam-core pipe and sheet in aerospace, aircraft, and automotive. According to Arkema, this is the first technology for foaming any sort of fluoropolymer.

It is based on a patent-pending foam concentrate technology, known as Kynar Flex 2620 FC. In pipe, the technology promises a weight reduction of 50% without any loss of properties. Arkema contends that cost savings through foaming will allow PVDF to compete against low-cost metal, plastic, and composite materials with lower chemical resistance.

The foam-core process has been designed to run on existing coextrusion lines and existing multi-layer die systems specifically with Kynar PVDF homopolymer and Kynar Flex PVDF copolymer, notes Sean Stabler, business development engineer for Kynar foams. He says: “The key for this product is that you get a high-performance material that is lighter in weight and lower in overall cost while maintaining excellent chemical resistance, weatherability, and toughness.”