POLYVANTIS Introduces lightweight and compliant LEXAN™ Sheet series for Railway Interiors at InnoTrans

• Innovative new sheet products in compliance with major Flame Smoke & Toxicity (FST) standards in the railway industry
• Superior durability and design freedom for light weighting, part consolidation and FRP/aluminum replacement
• Outstanding sustainability with small CO2 footprint, low water, and energy consumption from cradle-to-gate as well as end-of-life recyclability

September 24, 2024 – Berlin, Germany

POLYVANTIS announces the introduction of a new LEXAN™ sheet series, combining a lightweight solution with high durability and excellent mechanical properties for all rail vehicle interiors. The sheet products comply with all rail fire safety standards and can contribute to a reduced CO2 footprint. The new LEXAN sheet materials illustrate the Company’s vast expertise as a pioneer in polymer solutions for safer and more sustainable railway interior solutions.

POLYVANTIS latest polymer solution, LEXAN H6600 sheet provides light weighting, high stiffness, durability, aesthetics and is compliant to EN 45545-2 (R1 HL2), TB/T 3237 and NFPA-130. There may be potential applications for a wide range of large, thermoformed railway interior components, such as wall and seat claddings, kickboards, window frames, partition walls, lavatory modules and ceilings.

Additionally introducing LEXAN H6900 sheet, an opaque, solid, glass filled PC sheet, specially designed for railway seating. This lightweight and impact resistance sheet not only can support fuel efficiency, but also enhances the overall customer experience, placing a premium on comfort during transit. This compliant sheet including EN45545-2 (R6 HL3), TB/T3237, UIC564-2 and NFPA-130 ensures adherence to stringent safety standards, fostering a secure environment for passengers.

Compared to fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP), the new LEXAN sheet series may offer up to 30% weight savings per part. As an engineered thermoplastic material, it may provide superior freedom of design for cost-effective part integration and consolidation, which may be used as a FRP and aluminum replacement. It can support outstanding surface quality, including inherent anti-graffiti properties to make everyday maintenance easier.

“What makes this LEXAN sheet series truly stand out are its excellent thermoformability, high modulus and durability”, says Stephan Plomp, Rail Leader Strategic Growth at POLYVANTIS. ”This provides new opportunities for modern design of lightweight railway interiors. The optimization of seat components and interior parts, including lighting, supports the continuous efforts of railway operators to reduce their carbon footprint and save energy without compromising on aesthetics, comfort, and safety.”

On a life-cycle basis, the new LEXAN sheet portfolio has a smaller CO2 footprint than FRP or aluminum. It reduces the water and energy consumption from cradle-to-gate and mitigates fossil fuel depletion. These features, along with its ease of processing and durability, may result in potentially lower ownership costs. In addition, POLYVANTIS is working on laminated solutions for enhanced performance, improved graffiti, chemical resistance, and customized decoration options.

“One of our strengths is innovation with a firm focus on safety and efficiency”, adds Geuch Zijlma, European Technology Leader, POLYVANTIS. ”As a result, the compliant LEXAN sheet family represents a technologically advanced material solution to withstand the daily wear and tear of transportation."

POLYVANTIS fosters a forward-thinking culture focused on continuous innovation and improvement. For decades, customers have relied on the comprehensive product portfolio, capabilities, innovative thinking, and tenacity of the people who make up POLYVANTIS. To learn more about POLYVANTIS and its unique approach, visit our website or visit our POLYVANTIS booth at InnoTrans in Hall 5.1, booth number #320.