pps proceeding - Abstract Preview
pps proceeding
Symposium: S02 - Nanocomposites and filled Polymers
Oral Presentation
 
 

New insights to produce by tubing extrusion electrically conductive multi-layer fuel lines based on polyamide 612/carbon nanotubes formulations

Lison Valérie (1)*, Hurtgen Marie (1), Rul Alicia (1), De Villepin Cédric (1), Claes Michaël (1)

(1) Nanocyl - Sambreville - Belgium

For more than 20 years, the automotive industry has been setting higher safety and environmental standards. However, the substitution of metals for plastics parts in tubing and other fuel pathways has induced a risk of explosion in fuel systems due to electrostatic discharge (ESD). Indeed, liquid fuels flowing through the fuel delivery system to the engine can generate static charges which are more likely to build up to dangerous levels if there are not dissipated by the tubing material. To prevent ESD in fuel lines, electrically dissipative materials containing carbon nanotubes are used in fuel pumps, fuel filter housings, fuel line connectors, fuel line clips, fuel reservoirs, fuel filler pockets and related electronic housings. In this context, we will present our latest product developments by multi-layer extrusion process of fuel lines which the inner dissipative layer is composed of polyamide 612/carbon nanotubes – based formulations. The first part of the work will highlight the influence of extrusion compounding parameters and/or the viscosity of polymer grades on the dispersion and distribution of carbon nanotubes agglomerates. The second part will consist on the optimization of multi-layer extrusion process parameters in order to fulfill all requirements of the application such as the targeted ESD properties (according to SAE J1645 – Surface resistivity should not exceed 104 - 106 Ohms/square) at reduced CNT content and minimum thickness layer; an efficient chemicals resistance combined to a low permeation to diesel, petrol, methanol, ethanol or biofuel; and a high quality surface finish without visual defects. Moreover, the resistances for long-term fuel exposure and high temperature conditions of the components will be evaluated.