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Saudi Basic Industries Corp. (SABIC) launched Noryl GTX LMX310 resin, the first in a new family of resins with enhanced dimensional stability. This innovative material is well-suited for inline paintable automotive applications, such as service flaps for electric vehicles (EVs). In particular, this new grade addresses the challenges of larger, asymmetrically shaped service flaps that are common in hybrid and fully electric vehicles.

According to the company, the development efforts around this new material leveraged the growing pool of expertise available under SABIC’s Bluehero electrification initiative, which focuses on enabling the automotive industry to accelerate the shift to efficient, high-performing and safe EVs.

Noryl GTX LMX310 resin is an unfilled, conductive PPE blend with very low moisture absorption. The high moisture sensitivity of PA6 and PA66 compounds may cause warpage and decrease the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle. Testing performed by SABIC has demonstrated that the new grade absorbs 85% less moisture at equilibrium than incumbent PA-based materials, reducing the risk of warpage by up to 90%.

Luc Govaerts, director of formulation and application technology at SABIC Polymers says: “Based on our proprietary technology, Noryl GTX LMX310 resin also offers the high heat resistance required for inline painting. This helps automakers ensure Class A color matching, reduce costs and lower their CO₂ footprint, as it eliminates the need for additional equipment and processes otherwise needed for adequate offline painting.”

Several major automotive OEMs are already working to validate SABIC’s Noryl GTX LMX310 resin for EV service flaps and other inline painted automotive exteriors, such as door handles.