For more information, call (33) 0466-858870, fax (33) 0466-857009, e-mail ctisa@ctisa.fr or visit http://www.ctisa.fr.
GE ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION FROM WITTON CHEMICALS
GE - Advanced Materials, Silicones recently announced the acquisition of a group of high-quality silylated polyurethane resins from Witton Chemicals Ltd., to complement the launch of GE's third generation of SPUR+™ prepolymers into the coatings, adhesives and sealants industries. With the acquisition of Witton's silylated polyurethane resins, formulators can now benefit from one-stop shopping provided by GE's multi-product portfolio of prepolymers. All of GE's silylated polyurethanes, including the complementary Witton products that will be offered under GE's SPUR+ trademark, have proven compatibility. The SPUR+ prepolymers are free of isocyanates and plasticizers, and offer an array of superior properties such as ease of use, low viscosity, paintability, longer shelf life, and improved chemical resistance and mechanical performance.
For more information, visit http://www.ge.com/advancedmaterials.
PENN STATE DEVELOPS NEW NIOBIUM MOLDING PROCESS
Penn State researchers have developed the first powder injection molding process for pure niobium, a biocompatible material similar to platinum and titanium, but cheaper. The researchers, who are based in the university's Center for Innovative Sintered Products, say the new process could open the door to injection-molded niobium parts ranging from rocket nozzles and human bone replacements to orthodontic braces. Other researchers have developed techniques for processing niobium via powder metallurgy, and some have applied powder injection molding to niobium-based alloys and superalloys. However, according to Gaurav Aggarwal, doctoral candidate in engineering science and mechanics, the Penn State team is the first to explore processing pure niobium via injection molding. They have developed a method to calculate the optimal proportions of niobium powder to binder in feedstocks, as well as the appropriate temperature and duration for sintering.
Additional details are available at http://www.psu.edu.
PHOENIX AWARD GIVEN TO SCHAEFFER
Helmut A. Schaeffer, Ph.D., member of the International Commission of Glass Steering Committee, has been designated the 35th recipient of the Phoenix Award, one of the glass industry's most prestigious awards. Selected for the award in recognition of his many contributions to the glass industry as a researcher, scientist, teacher, editor and industry leader, Schaeffer received the Phoenix Steuben glass award at a ceremony and banquet held recently at the Corning Glass Museum in Corning, N.Y.
For more information, call (724) 776-9048.
ZEMEX IMPLEMENTS PRODUCTION ENERGY SURCHARGES
Zemex Industrial Minerals recently announced production energy surcharges on its feldspar, clay, talc and silica sand products, effective October 15, 2005. Surcharges range from 5-10% and are subject to change without notice. "The impact of natural gas increases on our operating cost has been dramatic," said Patrick Carr, president. "No one can afford to absorb this much additional cost for very long. We regret that this is necessary, especially since our customers are experiencing energy shock in their businesses as well."
The company's website is located at http://www.Z-I-M.com.