Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — SABIC has launched the first flame-retardant (FR) polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) material designed for nano molding. This innovation marks a breakthrough in consumer electronics manufacturing. The new compound, LNP™ THERMOTUF™ WF0087N, recently won a 2025 Edison Award, reflecting SABIC’s growing leadership in advanced materials for smart devices.

A New Material for Next-Generation Electronics

This nano molding-grade compound improves bonding between plastic and metal, crucial in nano molding technology (NMT). NMT injects resin into treated metal surfaces, creating thin, durable, and RF-transparent hybrid components. SABIC’s material supports these benefits while meeting UL94 V0 flame retardancy at 1.0 mm thickness.

The demand for high-performance electronics has increased the need for materials that offer both safety and strong mechanical properties. SABIC’s new compound delivers high impact resistance, customizable colors, and excellent dielectric strength—important for devices with antennas and anodized surfaces.

“As smartphones evolve in design and wireless function, the materials must keep pace,” said Jenny Wang, Director of Formulation & Application at SABIC’s Specialties business. The compound enhances bonding strength by up to 60% compared to standard FR PBT resins, supporting compliance with the IEC 62368-1 safety standard.

Expanding NMT’s Role in Device Innovation

The compound also enables waterproof designs that meet IP68 standards. At the same time, it simplifies production compared to die casting. As a result, it offers more efficient processing and slimmer form factors. Applications may include antenna splitters and structural components in phones, laptops, and wearable devices.

By aligning with the needs of the electronics industry, SABIC is expanding its presence in specialty materials. As devices become thinner and more integrated, materials like LNP THERMOTUF WF0087N are expected to be essential to future manufacturing.

With its advanced performance profile, the SABIC nano molding material stands out as a vital enabler for the next generation of consumer electronics.

 

 

THE SAUDI STANDARD’S VIEW: SABIC’s Nano Molding Polymer Marks a High-Tech Milestone

SABIC’s launch of the LNP THERMOTUF WF0087N compound demonstrates how Saudi innovation is transforming the global materials landscape, especially in electronics.

  • Enabling the next wave of consumer tech: The compound blends flame retardancy, mechanical strength, and nano molding compatibility. These features help global manufacturers build safer, lighter, and more compact devices.
  • Raising global standards from within the Kingdom: The material meets IEC 62368-1 and IP68 requirements. These certifications reflect Saudi Arabia’s growing role in global quality and safety benchmarks.
  • Global impact, local innovation: Winning a 2025 Edison Award places SABIC’s innovation on the world stage. The compound’s relevance to global OEMs proves the strength of Saudi knowledge-based exports.
  • Supporting sustainable and lightweight design: The material’s durability and efficient processing support green design. This aligns with market demands for sustainable, high-performance products.

With this launch, SABIC affirms that Saudi Arabia’s industrial future lies not just in raw materials, but in high-tech, export-ready innovation at the cutting edge of global demand.

 

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