Static control and EMI shielding specialist, TBA Electro Conductive Products (ECP) is developing innovative conductive plastic compounds within the Pan-European PolyCond project.

Static control and EMI shielding specialist, TBA Electro Conductive Products (ECP) is developing innovative conductive plastic compounds within the Pan-European PolyCond project that is aimed at creating eco-friendly, cost-effective and high added value conductive plastic composites. PolyCond is a transnational project, being part financed by the European Commission (EC) under the sixth framework programme as an Integrated Project (IPSME scheme - project number IP 515835-2). The project is designed to address the needs of European plastics converters, a traditionally less research-intensive industry mainly composed of small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) Commenting on the project, David Hurst, TBA ECP's general manager said, 'We are very pleased to be a part of PolyCond, a project that complements the aims of TBA ECP and will enable us to contribute our many years of experience in producing conductive plastics for EMI/RFI shielding and static control.

We will also benefit from access to the results of PolyCond's research output.' PolyCond's approach aims to deliver plastic components with embedded EMI shielding functionality, weight reduction of at least 60%, total cost reduction of shielding components approaching 90% and reduction of production time by 80%, thus improving productivity.

The main challenges for the project are to enhance the conductivity and extend the processing window of existing melt processable ICPs (Inherently Conductive Polymers) and to improve the compatibility and dispersion of conductive nanofillers in complex matrices.

PolyCond will benefit plastics processors in the EU by developing new technologies and providing solutions to key long-term problems.

The multidisciplinary and integrated approach includes technology transfer with training activities, thereby mobilising EU and regional funding.