UDEL®  P-3500 NT LCD - Solvay Advanced Polymers - 

UDEL P-3500 NT LCD is a very high molecular weight grade of polysulfone, and therefore offers the greatest toughness and chemical resistance of the available grades. It can be fabricated by both solution and melt processes. Solution processing is used to prepare flat sheet and hollow-fiber membranes, coatings, and films. Melt processing techniques include extrusion, thermoforming, injection and blow molding. The relatively low melt flow suggests that components requiring long flow lengths and thin walls may be difficult to mold using this grade, and one of the higher melt flow grades, such as P-1700, may be better suited for them.

The advantages of UDEL P-3500 NT LCD are attributed to the lower level of cyclic dimer present in the polymer. Cyclic dimer, normally produced during the manufacturing of polysulfone, can lead to ‘scaling' within the vessels and pipes used in the membrane manufacturing process.

Polysulfone is a tough, rigid, and transparent high-strength thermoplastic that is suitable for long-term use up to 300°F (149°C). It is resistant to oxidation and hydrolysis, and withstands prolonged exposure to high temperatures and repeated sterilization. Polysulfone is resistant to mineral acids, alkali, salt solutions, detergents, and hydrocarbon oils. Contact with polar solvents such as ketones, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and aromatic hydrocarbons should be avoided as these types of chemical compounds can cause stress cracking or solvate polysulfone resin.

Polysulfone is highly resistant to degradation by gamma or electron beam radiation but can be adversely affected by long term exposure to ultraviolet. Electrical properties of the polymer are very stable over a wide range of temperatures and after immersion in water or exposure to high humidity.

The resin is very safe for food contact uses. It complies with FDA 21 CFR 177, 1655 and may be used in articles intended for repeated use in contact with foods. Additionally, it is approved by the NSF, by the Department of Agriculture for contact with meat and poultry, and the 3-A Sanitary Standards of the Dairy Association.