NatureWorks 2500HP Hot Sale PLA Resin

NatureWorks 2500HP is a general-purpose Polylactic Acid (PLA) resin from NatureWorks LLC designed for injection molding and thermoforming of rigid, high-performance parts.

Physical Properties

  • Specific Gravity: Measured according to ASTM D792 standard, the specific gravity is 1.24 g/cc, indicating the material’s density relative to water.
  • Viscosity Measurement: Per ASTM D5225, RV is 4.00 at 1.0 g/dL in chloroform at 30°C, indicating solution flow properties.
  • Linear Mold Shrinkage (Amorphous): At 26°C mold temp, shrinkage is 0.00300–0.00400 cm/cm for amorphous molding, affecting part size.
  • Linear Mold Shrinkage (Crystalline): At 120°C mold temp, crystalline shrinkage is 0.0170–0.0180 cm/cm due to structural changes.
  • Melt Flow: Per ASTM D1238, the melt flow rate at 210°C (410°F) under 2.16 kg (4.76 lb) load is 5.0–8.0 g/10 min, indicating processability during melting.

Polymer Properties:

  1. Base Material: Polylactic Acid (PLA)
  2. Key Features & Characteristics:
    • High Crystallinity and Heat Resistance: High crystallinity can be achieved, which significantly improves heat resistance and dimensional stability after thermal post-treatment.
    • Good Rigidity and Strength: Offers a stiff and strong structure, making it ideal for creating durable, rigid products.
    • Fast Cycle Times: Its flow characteristics are optimized for injection molding, enabling faster cycles and higher productivity.
    • Bio-based and Compostable: As with all Ingeo PLA resins, it is derived from renewable resources and is industrially compostable, providing a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics.

Applications:

The combination of high melt flow, rigidity, and the potential for enhanced heat resistance makes NatureWorks 2500HP a top choice for a variety of rigid, high-performance products.

  • Injection-Molded Tableware: Ideal for producing durable, single-use, or reusable cutlery and cups that can withstand high temperatures after crystallization. 
  • Rigid Food Containers and Lids: Its stiffness and high heat deflection temperature after heat treatment make it suitable for food packaging that may be filled with hot liquids or stored in warm environments.
  • Durable Consumer Goods: Used for manufacturing housings for electronics, cosmetic containers, and other consumer products where rigidity and dimensional stability are important.
  • Industrial Parts: The enhanced thermal and mechanical properties make it suitable for non-load-bearing industrial components.

Processing Guidelines

NatureWorks 2500HP is optimized for injection molding and thermoforming. Proper drying is essential to prevent molecular weight degradation during processing.

  • Recommended Processing Temperature: 190°C – 220°C
  • Drying: The resin must be dried to a moisture content of <250 ppm. Recommended drying conditions are 4 hours at 40°C.
  • Heat Treatment (Post-Processing): For improved heat resistance, molded parts can be baked at a temperature below the melt point (e.g., 100°C to 120°C) to increase crystallinity and boost the HDT.

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