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Two patent-pending TPEs for 5G applications have been launched by Avient Corp. The new Versaflex CE 3140 formulations are transparent to signals, and reportedly deliver superior permittivity and low signal-loss performance at high frequencies to better enable high-speed transmission and connectivity.

Consumer electronics manufacturers are demanding better performance because at 5G’s high-end millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies, signals are shorter. They face interference from trees, windows, and even phone cases that can cause transmission issues for mobile devices.  Avient has formulated these TPE materials to offer improved signal transmission up to mmWave frequencies. This higher frequency range is required for faster data transfer, higher data capacity, and lower latency (i.e., data transmission times).

The new transparent Versaflex CE 3140 TPEs are targeted at accessories such as cases for phones and other 5G mobile devices. They are said to deliver lower dielectric constant (Dk) and dissipation factor (Df) performance compared to standard TPEs, resulting in less signal degradation. Available globally, Versaflex CE 3140 grades are injection moldable, and able to be overmolded to PC, ABS, PC/ABS, and COPE. They are a natural color TPE that can be easily colored to match design specs or branding preferences.

Both grades were formulated to outperform the industry benchmark for phone cases of less than 2.5 Dk at 37 GHz. Measured at 40 GHz, the 65 Shore A grade provides a 2.49 Dk and 0.024 Df, and the 90 Shore A grade shows 2.54 Dk and 0.021 Df.

Said Matt Mitchell, global marketing director of Avient’s specialty engineered materials, “As device manufacturers launch 5G compatible products, phone case manufacturers need materials that facilitate mmWave transmission to maximize signal performance. Signal quality is critical to reaping the benefits of 5G devices. Our specialty TPEs for 5G transparency provide phone case manufacturers with advanced solutions that allow them differentiate their next-generation products and delight end users.”