Ultramid^®particle foam – Expand your ideas!

Different bead sizes that fit your requirements: 1-3 mm

Ultramid^® Expand

For the first time, BASF introduces a particle foam based on a combination of several polyamide 6 grades. The particle foam consists of pre-foamed particles with a defined particle size and density, which can be welded into a 3D component without generating foam waste in a molding machine. The component has isotropic foam properties, i.e. the same mechanical properties in all directions. A chemical reaction does not take place in the foam.

The particle foam excels with a wide range of unique characteristics: high temperature-resistance, outstanding stiffness and strength as well as an excellent chemical resistance, e.g. in contact with fuels, oils and lubricants. Additionally, the closed cell foam structure offers an exceptional compressive strength, a requirement for the use in crash relevant components that are exposed to high mechanical demands. Molded part densities can be adjusted across a wide range of 150 to 600 g/L. Because of this versatility, lightweight applications are possible as well.

Key features of the Ultramid^® particle foam

At a glance

Heat deflection temperature – short time up to 230°C and long time up to 215°C
High temperature resistance
Excellent mechanical properties at temperature >130°C
Boards (up to 25 mm thickness tested) with wide density range ~ 150 - 600 g/L
Chemical resistance e.g. fuels, oils and lubricants
Drop-in solution in EPP tooling (stream chest molding)
Recycling of the thermoplastic Ultramid^® particle foam is possible
Simulation models available

BASF continues its long tradition of developing particle foams. We started this project in close co-operation with our customer and now we are able to successfully produce various prototypes. The material can be effortlessly processed on conventional EPP-molding machines as well as with innovative water steam free technologies.

René Holschuh

Segment Manager Powertrain & Chassis, BASF Performance Materials Europe

BASF’s Ultramid^® grades are molding compounds on the basis of PA6, PA66 and various co-polyamides such as PA66/6. The range also includes PA6/10 and semi-aromatic polyamides. The molding compounds are available unreinforced, reinforced with glass fibers or minerals and also reinforced with long-glass fibers for special applications. Ultramid^® is noted for its high mechanical strength, stiffness and thermal stability. In addition, Ultramid^® offers good toughness at low temperatures, favorable sliding friction behavior and can be processed without any problems.