- The new Polymer Innovation Center cost approximately $13 million.
- The facility will create around 60 jobs over the next 10 years.
- It focuses on VICTREX PEEK and other PAEK family thermoplastics.
- Funding included $1.7 million from the UK's Regional Growth Fund.
Investment and Facility Details
Victrex has opened a new Polymer Innovation Center in Thornton Cleveleys, UK, with an investment of approximately $13 million (£10 million). The facility is designed to enhance the company's R&D capabilities, focusing on VICTREX PEEK and other PAEK family thermoplastics. The center is equipped with state-of-the-art pilot-scale process technology and equipment, enabling the rapid prototyping of new parts and components.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The new center is expected to create around 60 jobs in the region over the next 10 years. The facility supports the manufacture of novel polyaryletherketones in 30-70 kg batches, contributing to the continual improvement in the quality and performance of existing products. Funding for the center included $1.7 million from the UK's Regional Growth Fund.
Technological Advancements
The Polymer Innovation Center will aid in the development of high-performance polymer grades aimed at advancements in composites and 3D printing/additive manufacturing. Victrex is leading a consortium backed by Innovate UK to focus on improving the 3D printing process for existing polymers. The center will also support the development of new applications and technological advances using VICTREX PAEK solutions.
Industry Applications
Victrex's advanced thermoplastics are contributing to increased efficiencies by replacing traditional metals in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and energy. The company's solutions facilitate greater productivity, performance, and reliability, as well as overall cost reductions. VICTREX PEEK polymers are particularly suited to extreme and demanding environments, offering exceptional properties such as chemical and wear resistance, dimensional stability, and performance across extreme temperature ranges.
