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Bayer MaterialScience LLC, says its Aura liquid infusion technology for coloring polycarbonate and ABS sheets and parts has now been developed to infuse UV stabilizer into PC. This capability was developed by Radco Infusion Technologies LLC, which has the exclusive license from Bayer to use Aura technology. As in Aura coloring, the process involves dipping the parts in an aqueous bath for a short period. Bayer sources note that UV damage occurs mainly at the surface of plastic products, but traditional compounding cannot concentrate UV protection at the surface, which limits effectiveness. Aura technology, puts the additive right where it’s most useful. It also allows use of heat-sensitive additives that break down at extrusion or molding temperatures.

Aura technology is said to be a breakthrough for lighting manufacturers, because it can overcome yellowing after extended UV exposure. This new approach will be commercialized this year when a major lighting OEM uses it for an outdoor product with an LED lens injection molded of Bayer’s Makrolon LED2643 PC.