Solvay and Zotefoams ink new partnership
Solvay and Zotefoams have signed a long-term supply agreement for Solef PVDF to be used in high-performance closed-cell foams for a wide range of lightweighting aircraft interior applications
Solvay and Zotefoams have entered into a long-term agreement for the supply of Solef polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) to produce Zotefoams’ ZOTEK F high-performance closed-cell crosslinked aerospace foam range.
The collaboration will target a wide range of interior applications in aerospace including ducting, carpet underlay, environmental control systems and insulation, where low weight, high flame retardancy and cost-effective processability are paramount.
“This agreement marks the starting point of a collaborative partnership towards supply security, quality and innovation,” said Marc Doyle, Executive Vice President for Aerospace & Defense of Solvay Materials Business, in June 27 press release. “It opens exciting new perspectives for weight reduction as well as noise and vibration management for interior components thanks to Solef PVDF, extending the reach of our polymers into yet another demanding market segment. We are excited to partner with Zotefoams in helping the aircraft industry achieve its ambitious environmental and sustainability targets.”
Solef PVDF has been developed to deliver lightweight closed-cell cross-linked foams, providing weight savings of up to 70% in aircraft interiors while meeting the strictest aerospace standards. It is inherently flame retardant and combines a high degree of purity with robust mechanical properties, electrochemical stability and broad chemical resistance at high temperatures.
“PVDF foam is the ideal material for a multitude of applications in air- and spacecraft interiors and we are delighted that this agreement gives the security of supply for our customers in unpredictable times," stated James Bridges, Director of High-Performance Products at Zotefoams in the same release. "As the commercial aviation sector strives to meet stringent carbon reduction targets, the lightweighting capabilities of ZOTEK F are more in demand than ever, so the announcement of our partnership with Solvay could not be more timely.”
