July 16, 2022
Alphagary, Orbia’s Polymer Solutions brand, introduces EVOPRENE ECO 1000 – TPE compounds built with sustainable ingredients.
Alphagary, a global leader in the design and manufacture of specialty polymer compounds and a division of Orbia’s Polymer Solutions business group, introduced today the first of a new series of SEBS-based thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds, under the brand EVOPRENE, that are formulated with sustainable raw materials.
This new family of EVOPRENE compounds, the ECO 1000 series, underlines Alphagary’s commitment to sustainable development. The EVOPRENE ECO 1000 series is formulated with bio-based raw materials, reducing reliance on traditional fossil-based raw materials. These compounds are designed for both extrusion and molding general-purpose applications. Having a natural base, these materials can be easily colored.
Extensive lab testing was conducted on EVOPRENE ECO 1000. Comparing a compound with twenty-five (25) percent bio-based raw materials against a compound formulated with traditional fossil-based raw materials, Alphagary found consistent mechanical properties (such as specific gravity, durometer, and tensile strength), good heat resistance, and consistent flow characteristics and surface finish compared with traditionally formulated compounds.
Said John Jaddou, Alphagary’s Global Business Development Director, “As part of Orbia’s mission to Advance Life Around the World, Alphagary is expanding our portfolio of sustainable materials as well as investing in new technologies that allow our customers to achieve their own sustainability initiatives. Additionally, we are exploring methods that will allow us to quantify the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from formulation through manufacture of these compounds”. John went on to say, “Our approach is holistic – it goes beyond formulating with bio-based raw material and recycled content. We are carefully listening to our customers’ own business goals and reimagining ways we can work together to advance common sustainability ambitions. Programs that partner with customers to prevent waste to landfill, using alternate materials that have lower carbon footprint, and choosing ingredients that are less harmful to the environment are all ways we are demonstrating our commitment to sustainable development.”
At Orbia, sustainability is deeply embedded in our businesses, is a core component of our growth strategy, and drives our culture. Our purpose-led focus on addressing the world’s most pressing challenges drives our business agenda and our strategic approach to sustainability. In living these values, Alphagary’s sustainability goals include actions at its manufacturing facilities. Said Rick Correia, Alphagary’s Global Operations Director, “The approach we take in our operations is as important as the innovative products we offer. Our investments to contract green energy, upgrade equipment efficiencies, and capture precious resources such as heat back into our facilities all help to reduce our carbon footprint and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protect our environment.”