DSM has introduced its latest composite resin – Atlac 5200 FC - developed specifically for use in composite applications that have contact with food and water. Officially launched at last week's JEC show in Paris, this new vinyl ester resin is unique in that it is fully compliant with the European regulations on food contact and made in line with commonly accepted Good Manufacturing Practices for the Food Industry. The resin is therefore suitable for use in a variety of composite applications such as tanks and pipes that are intended for contact with food and potable water.
Typical end use applications include potable water transport networks, water treatment installations, desalination plants, and in-plant piping and storage vessels in food processing industries. Atlac 5200 FC resins can be converted in standard manufacturing processes including filament winding, infusion and hand lay-up. The process-ability is as robust as with conventional vinyl ester resins for making pipes, vessels or tanks.
With the growing global population the demand for safe food and drinking water will increase significantly over the coming decades. More than 20% of the world will be affected by water scarcity in the next 20 years and supply of clean water as well as safe management of waste water will become more and more crucial. Furthermore, health, safety and environmental regulations as well as legislative measures are likely to become more stringent, with the immediate result that the demand for high quality and safe-to-use storage tanks and piping is set to grow.
Through its excellent anti-corrosion and heat resistance properties Atlac® 5200 FC resin enables the manufacture of composite components that are long-lasting, even in hostile environments. For plant operators this means continued process operation, reduction of maintenance, and consequently low cost of ownership. In addition the use of composite materials will allow for optimising design and for integration of individual parts.
Pipes, vessels, and storage tanks operating in direct contact with food stuff or drinking water require compliance with specific European Food and Drinking Water industrial standards and regulations. This assures customers, operators, and end users that the raw materials used in the resin composition have been assessed by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Council for effects on human health and approved for use in food contact articles.
