SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 Polycarbonate Resin
An advanced, high-performance thermoplastic engineered for demanding industrial applications.
Introduction to SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 PC
SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 resin is an advanced, unfilled polycarbonate (PC) thermoplastic, meticulously engineered for high-performance injection molding applications. Manufactured by SABIC Innovative Plastics under the renowned Lexan brand, this resin stands out due to a specific combination of properties that make it suitable for demanding industrial uses.
A defining characteristic of LUX2289 is its Melt Flow Rate (MFR) of 17 g/10 min and Melt Volume Rate (MVR) of 16 cm³/10 min. These values signify good flow characteristics, which are advantageous for achieving intricate designs and thin-walled sections in injection molded parts. The material's flow properties are carefully balanced with its robust mechanical strength, such as a Notched Izod Impact Strength of 648 J/m at 23°C. This allows product designers to create intricate, functional components that are also durable and reliable.
The resin is inherently UV stabilized, providing enhanced resistance to ultraviolet radiation. This feature is critical for maintaining material integrity and aesthetic appeal in applications exposed to direct sunlight. For safety-critical applications, LUX2289 holds a UL94 V2 flame rating at a thickness of 1.5 mm and an HB rating at 1.0 mm.
A prominent performance attribute of this grade is its high light reflectance. This optical property positions LUX2289 as a prime candidate for specialized applications within the lighting sector, particularly for components designed to maximize light output and efficiency. The combination of high light reflectance, UV stabilization, and a UL94 V2 flame rating creates a compelling material solution that allows designers to achieve higher lumen output and energy efficiency in LED systems.
Polymer Type and Manufacturer
SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 is a Polycarbonate (PC), an amorphous engineering thermoplastic celebrated for its exceptional balance of mechanical strength, optical clarity, and thermal stability. The resin is produced by SABIC Innovative Plastics, a global leader in the chemical industry.
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Get in TouchMaterial Properties
The fundamental physical, mechanical, thermal, flammability, and optical characteristics of SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 PC are critical for initial design considerations, material handling, and predicting end-use performance.
Physical Properties
The material's density is reported as 1.34 g/cm³ (ASTM D792) and 1.31 g/cm³ (ISO 1183). The Melt Flow Rate (MFR) is 17 g/10 min and the Melt Volume Rate (MVR) is 16 cm³/10 min. These flow characteristics are crucial for molding complex geometries. The linear mold shrinkage is reported as 0.5 – 0.7 % for a 3.2 mm thickness. The material exhibits low water absorption, suggesting good dimensional stability in varying humidity environments.
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical performance of LUX2289 highlights its suitability for structural and impact-resistant applications. Tensile strength at yield is 60 MPa (ASTM D638), and its elongation at break is 120%, indicative of the material's inherent ductility and toughness. The flexural modulus is 2670 MPa (ASTM D790), demonstrating the material's stiffness. It retains significant toughness even at -30°C, with Notched Izod Impact strength of 165 J/m, making it suitable for outdoor and cold-weather applications.
| Property | Typical Values | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 1.34 / 1.31 | g/cm³ | ASTM D792 / ISO 1183 |
| Melt Flow Rate (MFR) | 17 | g/10 min | ASTM D1238 (300°C/1.2 kgf) |
| Melt Volume Rate (MVR) | 16 | cm³/10 min | ISO 1133 (300°C/1.2 kg) |
| Tensile Stress, yld | 60 / 61 | MPa | ASTM D638 / ISO 527 |
| Flexural Modulus | 2670 / 2500 | MPa | ASTM D790 / ISO 178 |
| Izod Impact, notched, 23°C | 648 / 52 | J/m / kJ/m² | ASTM D256 / ISO 180/1A |
| Izod Impact, notched, -30°C | 165 / 13 | J/m / kJ/m² | ASTM D256 / ISO 180/1A |
Thermal Properties
Understanding the thermal behavior of LUX2289 is crucial for both processing and end-use performance. The Vicat Softening Temperature is 142 °C (ASTM D1525), and the Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) is 136 °C at 0.45 MPa. These values demonstrate good heat resistance, ensuring dimensional stability in environments that generate moderate heat.
Flammability Characteristics
Flammability ratings are vital for safety and regulatory compliance. The UL Recognized Flame Class Rating is 94V-2 at 1.5 mm and 94HB at 1.0 mm. The material passes the Glow Wire Flammability Index (GWFI) test at 960°C, indicating a strong resistance to ignition from a hot wire. The official UL Yellow Card link for certification is E45329-101527188.
Optical Properties
The optical characteristics are a key differentiator for LEXAN™ LUX2289, particularly its "High light reflectance". This property, combined with its UV stabilization, ensures the material's optical performance remains stable over time, preventing yellowing or hazing. The general Lexan LUX resin portfolio is noted for high transmission and can achieve up to ~97% reflectivity, suggesting LUX2289 falls within this high-performance optical range.
Electrical Properties
While specific detailed electrical property data is not provided, the use of general LEXAN™ PC resins in the "Electrical & Electronics" industries implies they possess good electrical insulation capabilities. The provided UL94 flame ratings and Glow Wire tests are themselves crucial electrical safety parameters, indicating the material's performance under electrical fault conditions.
Processing Guidelines
SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 is explicitly engineered as an "Injection moldable" grade. Adhering to the recommended processing parameters is critical for achieving optimal part quality, dimensional accuracy, and maintaining the material's inherent properties.
General Injection Molding Parameters
For optimal results, the following parameters are recommended for injection molding SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289:
-
Drying
Temperature: 120 °C
Time: 3 – 4 hours
Max Moisture: 0.02% -
Melt Temperature
Range: 280 – 305 °C
-
Nozzle Temperature
Range: 275 – 300 °C
-
Barrel Zone Temps
Front: 280 – 305 °C
Middle: 270 – 295 °C
Rear: 260 – 280 °C -
Mold Temperature
Range: 70 – 95 °C
Typical Applications
SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 PC is specifically engineered for applications demanding a unique combination of optical performance, durability, and safety features. Its core properties direct its use towards particular market segments, including:
- Automotive Exterior: The UV stabilization and impact resistance make it ideal for parts like lighting components and exterior mirrors.
- Electrical & Electronics: Its UL94 V2 flame rating and electrical insulation properties make it suitable for housings, connectors, and other critical components.
- Advanced Lighting Systems: Its high light reflectance makes it exceptionally well-suited for reflectors in LED lighting and luminaires, offering a cost-effective and design-flexible alternative to traditional materials.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety Information
For a comprehensive understanding of SABIC LEXAN™ LUX2289 PC's compliance with global regulations and safe handling procedures, official documents are referenced. The Regulatory Data Sheet (RDS) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) are available for download from the SABIC website. These documents provide crucial information on adherence to standards such as RoHS, REACH, and other restricted substance lists, as well as detailed hazard identification and safety measures. Users are advised to actively consult these external, official SABIC resources for complete and legally compliant assessments.