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[February 2006]
Arkema Opens Carbon Nanotube Pilot Plant
Arkema, which first launched an R&D project in 2003 for the production of carbon nanotubes (as well as research into their applications), has now reaffirmed its commitment to nanomaterials with the inauguration of the first plant in Europe capable of producing some 10 tonnes per annum of carbon nanotubes.Arkema and the Conseil Regional d'Aquitaine have stated their intention of working closely together to develop a nanomaterials activity in the Aquitaine region of France.
At the end of January, Arkema inaugurated a carbon nanotube pilot plant at its Lacq Research Centre (Pyrenees-Atlantiques, SW France). With this unique facility, operating a patented catalysis process, the company says it is now in a position to produce carbon nanotubes in semi-industrial quantities at a cheaper cost than those manufactured to date in laboratory conditions.
With this new facility, Arkema is looking to the genuine commercial development of carbon nanotubes to fulfil the expectations of converters in the thermoplastics, epoxy, elastomer and coating sectors. Progress is also expected in the field of energy, in which the use of carbon nanotubes will play a role in the manufacture of energy efficient batteries and fuel cells.
Arkema said it was currently developing a range of pre-composites based on carbon nanotubes which ensure the latter's good dispersion and thereby make optimum use of their outstanding properties. This new range will be launched officially at the JEC Composites Show (Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles, 28-30 March 2006).
www.arkemagroup.com
ENDS