BASF launches nano-POM

The resin is expected to find applications in areas such as automotive fuel systems. It is already being used in a serial application by Bosch, which is using it to produce fuel filter housings for the Audi A4 and A5 at its plant at Budweis in the Czech Republic.

While POM is commonly used in fuel system components, the latest US SAE standards require a maximum specific volume resistance value of 106 ohm.cm to minimise the risk ofstatic spark ignition. The new Ultraform grade provides a value of 30 ohm.cm.

According to BASF, the new grade retains the toughness, dimensional stability and elastic resilience expected of POM while exhibiting higher strength and creep-resistance.