Trogamid CX, a transparent polyamide family that has been a standby in the optical industry for over 20 years, recently gained a new member with the introduction by Evonik of Trogamid myCX eCO.
The name eCO, said the company, stands for ‘eliminate CO2’. This is achieved on the one hand, through the adoption of a mass-balance approach in replacing a petrochemical-based raw material with one based on biomass and on the other, through the use of renewable energy resources in the production of the material. Through the application of the mass-balance method, the biocontent level of the new polyamide grade has been determined at 40%.
The result is a 50 percent reduction in the material’s carbon footprint of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide compared to its fossil-based counterpart produced using conventional energy sources.
The material has been certified by TÜV Rheinland. The analysis was prepared in accordance with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 and included the Cradle to Gate stage.
The environmental qualifications of the material in no way affect its performance, said Evonik. It continues to provide transparency of over 90 percent, outstanding mechanical properties, stress cracking resistance, and break resistance. Due to its low weight and subsequent wearing comfort, applications include premium lenses or high-quality visors for ski and snowboard goggles.
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