Xenia Thermoplastic Specialties launches new range of supertough carbon fiber composites

Xenia Materials (Mussolente, Italy) has announced the introduction of XECARB ST, a new family of supertough carbon fiber-reinforced composites, reportedly custom-engineered to close a performance gap in the market and provide superior impact strength performance.

“There is a growing demand for lightweight composites in various new markets, such as sustainable mobility and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), where we have identified a need for higher impact resistance than previously offered by carbon fiber-reinforced composites,” says Cristian Zanchetta, technical manager for R&D at Xenia Materials. “Our new XECARB ST family meets these challenges while at the same time opening new opportunities for innovative applications in existing market segments, such as sports equipment, appliances, supercars and even additive manufacturing.”

XECARB ST builds on the proven mechanical strengths of Xenia’s successful XECARB range, but is reported to show significantly higher notched impact resistance, low temperature ductility and tensile elongation at break. With slightly lower density, XECARB ST is said to offer further lightweighting possibilities. Xenis Materials notes that major customers seeking to improve impact and cold impact performance of carbon fiber composite applications are already evaluating this added potential for weight reduction and lower material and energy consumption, as well as the associated cost savings and reduced environmental impact.

XECARB ST thermoplastic composites are based on selected polyamide matrix materials — PA66, PA6, PA11, PA12, PA6.10, PA6.12 and PA4.10 — to address different mechanical, thermal and physical requirements. Standard carbon fiber content is 30% (CF30). The PA6-based composites are also available as CF20, CF25, CF35 and CF40 grades. In addition, the portfolio includes two high-modulus materials for enhanced flexural strength and provides a wide engineering window for further customization depending on specific application needs.

“Beyond winter and mountain sports equipment, from boots and running shoes to bikes, these new high-impact carbon fiber composites will help us reach into other markets and further expand our customer base in Europe, APAC and North America,” adds Enrico Mancinetti, sales manager for Xenia Materials. “Driving this growth, Xenia Materials will also increase its European sales force with a strong focus on qualified local customer support and service.”