Arkema has launched a comprehensive range of PEKK (Poly Ether Ketone Ketone) ultra-high performance polymers comprised of three families of products whose properties meet the requirements of aerospace, oil exploration and electronics applications. These new materials significantly expand Arkema's high performance materials offerings to high added value markets, according to the company.

PEKK is a polymer for the extremes; in terms of mechanical resistance, it compares favorably with metals like aluminum. The Kepstan range, developed by researchers at CERDATO, Arkema's technical polymers research center, complements the Group's other advanced materials including Kynar fluoropolymers, Altuglas PMMA, Rilsan and Rilsamid polyamides, Pebax thermoplastic elastomers, as well as Nanostrength and Graphistrength nanostructured materials.

The new Kepstan range stands out from competitive materials; its copolymer structure can be adapted to the requirements of the end-application. Based on the requirements therefore, the main properties in one application might be very high compressive strength, and in another, extreme resistance to aggressive environments, or excellent adhesion to fibers (composites) or to metal (powder coatings).

The Kepstan range comprises three families of products:

    Kepstan 6000: low melting point and amorphous grades aptly suited to extrusion and thermoforming, as well as laser sintering and powder coating on metal.
    Kepstan 7000: optimized grades for the manufacture of thermoplastic carbon fiber composites, like unidirectional tapes and coated fabrics used in aerospace.
    Kepstan 8000: grades featuring top thermo-mechanical and chemical resistance properties, for the extrusion or injection molding of components used in ultra deep well oil exploration.