ASA

Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA) is a type of thermoplastic elastomer that was developed by BASF (Badische Anilin- und Soda-Fabrik) in the 1970s. ASA is known for its excellent weather resistance, UV stability, and mechanical properties, making it suitable for outdoor applications such as automotive parts, building materials, and consumer goods.

The development of ASA involved advancements in polymer chemistry and the need for materials that could withstand outdoor environments without significant degradation. BASF’s research and development efforts led to the commercialization of ASA under various brand names, such as Luran® by BASF.

While specific names of individual discoverers may not always be prominently noted in the case of materials like ASA, it was the result of collective efforts within research and development teams at BASF and other companies focusing on developing new polymer technologies during that era.

The example above are parts for a champagne bar for yachts. The material required needed great weatherability and UV resistance to handle a range of conditions.

Why choose ASA for your injection moulding project?

  • 1. UV Resistance: ASA offers excellent resistance to UV radiation, making it ideal for outdoor applications where prolonged exposure to sunlight can degrade other plastics.
  • 2. Weatherability: It maintains its physical properties and appearance under harsh weather conditions, including rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.
  • 3. Colour Stability: ASA maintains its colour over time, even when exposed to outdoor elements, reducing the need for frequent repainting or replacement.
  • 4. Impact Resistance: ASA provides good impact resistance, which makes it durable and suitable for applications that may experience mechanical shocks or impacts.
  • 5. Chemical Resistance: It is resistant to many chemicals, including acids, bases, and oils, making it suitable for various industrial and consumer applications.
  • 6. Thermal Stability: ASA retains its properties at a wide range of temperatures, ensuring consistent performance in both hot and cold environments.
  • 7. Gloss and Surface Finish: ASA can produce parts with a high gloss and excellent surface finish, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the final product.
  • 8. Mechanical Properties: It offers a good balance of strength, rigidity, and toughness, making it suitable for structural applications.
  • 9. Ease of Processing: ASA is relatively easy to process and mold, allowing for high precision in producing complex shapes and thin-walled parts.
  • 10. Low Moisture Absorption: It has low moisture absorption compared to other plastics, which helps maintain its dimensional stability and mechanical properties in humid conditions.
  • 11. Electrical Properties: ASA has good electrical insulating properties, making it suitable for electrical and electronic applications.
  • 12. Cost-Effectiveness: While ASA may be more expensive than some other plastics, its durability and long-term performance can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run, especially for outdoor applications.

These properties make ASA an excellent material for a wide range of injection molding applications, including automotive parts, outdoor furniture, sporting goods, electrical housings, and consumer electronics, where durability, aesthetic quality, and resistance to environmental factors are crucial.

If you have an injection moulding project and are considering using ASA, please get in touch with our technical team on 01280 706335 for a free consultation!

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