Dow Introduces INFUSE Olefin Block Copolymers

INSITE™ Technology breakthrough creates family of novel olefin elastomers expanding the application potential for olefins and opportunities for Dow customers

Chicago, IL — The Dow Chemical Company is today introducing INFUSE™ Olefin Block Coploymers (OBCs), a breakthrough in olefin elastomers. The unique block architecture of INFUSE OBCs delivers enhanced performance and processing properties beyond current olefin elastomers, including outstanding high temperature performance, faster set-up in processing (reduced cycle times), improved abrasion resistance, and excellent elasticity and compression set properties at both room and elevated temperatures. INFUSE OBCs were developed using INSITE™ Technology, Dow's proprietary approach to linking the science of catalyst, process and materials to address customer needs. Through this approach, a leading edge catalyst system was developed that allows for control of the molecular architecture required to produce the olefin-block structure in a continuous process. The block structure is the key to delivering the outstanding properties of the INFUSE olefin block copolymer family. These new olefin elastomers will enable a wide range of new application opportunities for converters and manufacturers of flexible goods and products.

"INFUSE Olefin Block Copolymers were developed in response to customer interest in higher performing olefin elastomers," says Kurt Swogger, Global Vice President of Research & Development, Performance Plastics and Chemicals, The Dow Chemical Company. "We have achieved a revolutionary breakthrough by being the first to combine the technology of catalytic block copolymers and linear olefin-based thermoplastics in a continuous process."

"The advantages of INFUSE Olefin Block Copolymers will enable customers to differentiate their products and optimize cost-in-use compared to traditional elastomer materials," said Greg Jozwiak, Global Business Director for Performance Elastomers and Plastomers, The Dow Chemical Company. "INFUSE OBCs further support the trend toward olefin-based specialty elastomers."

INFUSE will enable olefin elastomers to further expand into a wide range of market applications including flexible molded goods, profile extruded products, hoses and tubes, elastic fibers and films, foams, coated fabrics, adhesives and tapes.

Detailed plans concerning manufacturing facilities will be announced at a later date.

SOURCE: The Dow Chemical Company