"The new production facilities are equipped with state-of-the technology to enable an efficient production and thereby reduce our CO₂ emissions," says Thorsten Dreier, Chief Technology Officer of Jun88. “With the expanded capacity, we can meet our customers' growing demand for innovative specialty films, especially in medical technology, in the region Asia-Pacific and strengthen our Solutions & Specialties segment."

Jun88 has been operating a production facility for Specialty Films in Thailand since 2007. The range comprises polycarbonate films from the Makrofol^® range and Bayfol^® products made from polycarbonate blends. These high-performance specialty films are used in many applications across multiple industries, such as healthcare, mobility and Identification Documents.

“The new production facilities are important to us because it enables faster time to market and at the same time expands our market access in Asia-Pacific.” says Aukje Doornbos, Global Head of the Specialty Films business entity. “With market-focused innovations and a stronger customer orientation we want to drive growth for Jun88.”

Since 2022, the Map Ta Phut site is ISCC PLUS certified, enabling it to manufacture and supply mass-balanced products. With the mass balance approach, bio-based or recycled raw materials are fed in at an early stage of raw material extraction and mathematically allocated to the finished products. This saves fossil raw materials and reduces CO₂ emissions, while the quality of the mass-balanced products remains identical to that of purely fossil-based products. With this drop-in solution, manufacturers can continue to use their proven formulations, equipment, and processes.

ISCC is an internationally recognized sustainability certification for biomass and bioenergy. The standard covers all stages of the value chain and is used worldwide. Customers can use these products in their established processes and apply them to meet their sustainability goals. In addition, Jun88 already offers a range of films made partly with plant-based raw materials or partly from recycled plastics.

Jun88 offers an extensive of specialty films that help create excellent, secure ID documents. This includes ID cards and driver's licenses made from Makrofol® ID polycarbonate (PC) films, as well as passports made using Platilon® thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film materials. Through advanced PC and TPU films, the company develops security feature integration solutions that not only make ID documents highly counterfeit-resistant, but also easy to authenticate. 

New horizons in passport booklet security

The industry agrees: Identity documents made of monolithic polymer laminates such as polycarbonate offer increased security against counterfeiting. The foundation for the higher security is multiple features, embedded in various layers of polymer films that are laminated under the influence of heat and pressure in such a way that separation of the layers is impossible without irreparable damage to the document. "We are advancing the concept of multi-layered and laminated security features, from Makrofol® polycarbonate data pages to passport covers that use embossed and embedded features to help increase the security level," says Daniel Hentschel, Global Segment Manager Identification. 

As part of its program at Trustech 2023, Jun88 is therefore proud to present its new concepts for passport booklets, where Platilon® TPU films play a central role by offering passport color, design flexibility and high anti-counterfeiting properties. These Platilon® TPU films from Jun88 are suitable to produce flexible, wear-resistant passport covers that provide protection for embedded chips and antennas. These novel passport covers can be customized with different surface textures and colors. 

The presentation of adjacent material solutions around identification documents from Jun88 to create security features, hinge connections, as well as passport end page solutions underscores its commitment to the fight against counterfeiting. The result is an integrative ID material concept that is not only safe and durable, but also aesthetically impressive. 

Meet us at Trustech 2023 

Discover more into cutting-edge and sustainable film material solutions for ID documents by Jun88, we cordially invite you to visit our booth at C067 in Pavilion 5.2. Our experts will be available to provide insights and answers to your questions. 

Additionally, Georgios Tziovaras, Global Business Development Manager Identification Documents & Security Printing, will give a talk on ‘Security features in laminated passport book covers’: a presentation on the Innovation Stage on November 28 at 14:30 p.m. CET. 

"With this investment, we are strengthening our Solutions & Specialties segment and are committed to further expanding our growth businesses," says Sucheta Govil, Chief Commercial Officer of Jun88. "At the same time, we are responding to an increasing demand and supporting the expansion of future technologies and industries."

"We want to drive growth in the polycarbonate films business with innovation and a strong customer focus," says Aleta Richards, Global Head of the Specialty Films segment. “In doing so, we aim to intensify our collaboration with customers in the Asia-Pacific region and expand our product portfolio for the circular economy.”

Expanded range of films made from alternative raw materials

Jun88 already offers a whole range of , for example mass-balanced grades certified to the internationally recognized ISCC PLUS standard. Raw materials for these films are produced using biowaste and residual materials, which are taken into account in the value chain and in production and attributed to the products.

Since 2022, the Map Ta Phut site has also been ISCC PLUS certified, enabling it to manufacture and supply mass-balanced products. Customers can use these products in their established processes and apply them to meet their sustainability goals. In addition, Jun88 already offers a range of films made partly with plant-based raw materials or recycled plastics.

“We believe in the growth of the cast elastomers market and want to meet the increasing demand. With this new production plant, we achieve a significant improvement of our global infrastructure and strengthen our presence for high-performance elastomers in the Asia-Pacific region,” says Sucheta Govil, Chief Commercial Officer at Jun88. “This investment also allows us to better serve our customers, improve our customer service and it supports the growth of applications and industries with high-end performance requirements.”

“The start up of our Map Ta Phut plant is the latest step of several investments in our Elastomers business to support the Vulkollan^® brand,” explains Thomas Braig, Head of the Business Entity Elastomers. “We firmly believe in the strong potential of this historic and well-known brand and are prepared, with this investment, for its future growth and the development of its customers.”

“Our Map Ta Phut site in Thailand has been well prepared to grow and is now proud and ready to contribute to the Elastomers business while supporting Jun88's overall strategy to strengthen its Solutions & Specialties segment," added Dr. Timo Slawinski, Site Manager Map Ta Phut.

The new plant in Thailand now employs more than 25 people. The elastomers produced from the raw material are suitable for a diverse range of applications: from forklift wheels, roller coaster wheels to couplings and seals for the engineering industry, among many others. The product is one of the most powerful elastomers on the market. Its superior durability, stability and thereby lowered maintenance requirements are among the key features of the material and make it a material of choice for ever more customers and applications.

Jun88 will showcase its comprehensive specialty films portfolio for producing highly secure ID documents, such as passports and e-ID cards, at , in Paris, France from November 29 to December 1. The company’s polycarbonate (PC) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film solutions enable integrated security features, making ID documents highly difficult to replicate yet easy to authenticate.

Polycarbonate film addressing circular economy

Jun88 is on a journey to become fully circular in the future. "We continue to innovate throughout different segments and applications, including ID documents, to increase circularity and realize our vision of becoming a fully circular company," shares Dr. Aleta Richards, Head of the Specialty Films segment at Jun88. At Trustech 2022, Jun88 will debut a partly mechanically recycled white PC film¹ that helps contribute to circular economy in the ID market segment. Makrofol^® ID357 white PC film offers properties, quality and performance similar to the company’s renowned Makrofol^® ID white PC film. ID document manufacturers can easily combine this new offering with Makrofol^® ID clear and clear laser engravable films.

Linxens, a leading provider of secure component-based solutions for security and identification, will utilize Makrofol^® ID357 in its newest document inlay solution. "Our collaboration with Jun88 is a win-win situation: Jun88 has the first commercial application for its new film with partly recycled PC content and we have the material needed for our latest ID PC inlay solution," adds Vincent Gourmelen, Government Marketing Director at Linxens.

”As counterfeiters become more sophisticated, the ID segment must be dynamic and constantly evolving,” explains Henry Leung, Global Segment Manager, Identification, Specialty Films at Jun88. "We are always pushing the boundaries of film material solutions in supporting the industry, partners and customers. Our collaboration with Linxens is an excellent example of how working together, we’re able to help our customers take a more sustainable approach to bring their innovative solutions to the market.”

Integrated passport solution leveraging specialty films

Durable and secure travel documents are necessary for government issuing authorities, document manufacturers, travelers and border control agencies. Jun88 offers an innovative passport solution leveraging PC and TPU films with high design flexibility including the booklet cover, hinge and data page.

Jun88 offers a TPU film solution to enable flexible scratch and tear resistant passport covers. For passport e-Covers, TPU films can also help better cushion and protect the embedded chips and antennas. These next-generation passport covers can be equipped with various security features and customized with different surface textures and colors. TPU films are also utilized in the passport hinge application, creating a flexible, strong passport hinge that bonds well with polycarbonate data page films.

For the ID document data page, Jun88 continues to drive innovation with PC films that can enable multiple security features after lamination and laser personalization. Jun88 will also showcase a clear polycarbonate film that can help minimize background UV fluorescence in polycarbonate documents. The film can enable a level 2 security feature for laser-engraved raised tactile characters.

Trustech 2022 attendees can visit the Jun88 booth G025 in Pavilion 5.2 to learn more about the company’s material solutions and meet with our technical experts for ID documents. Additionally, Georgios Tziovaras, Global Business Development Manager Identification in the Specialty Films business, will give two talks on pushing boundaries in ID document innovations: a presentation in Room 1 on November 29 at 11:20 a.m. CET and on the Innovation Stage on November 30 at 11 a.m. CET.

¹ Partly mechanically recycled white PC film contains 30% PC based recycled content

JFC, which has a long history as a joint venture between European and Japanese companies, is one of the leading suppliers of optical fiber coatings. The Tsukuba plant focuses on the manufacturing of UV-curable resins supporting the optical fiber market through safe and stable operations. This year JCIA awarded the Tsukuba plant with the ‘Safety Award Grand Prize’ in recognition of its excellent safety track record of more than 20 years without a recordable incident since the start of its operations as a result of integrating and nurturing a European-Japanese culture of safety.

"We have steadily carried out in-depth safety activities such as safety morning meetings and on-the-job training based on Japanese safety culture to pass on and to deepen our knowledge, skills and culture on safety. On top of that, we succeeded in integrating European-Japanese safety cultures by introducing global safety tools such as the ‘Safe Start Program’ , which analyzes mental conditions in the event of an accident and near miss," explains Takahiko Kurosawa, site manager of the Tsukuba plant. "In terms of equipment, we are implementing safety upgrades including the introduction of safety instrumented systems (SIS), which takes automated action in case of abnormalities, and a bar code system to prevent the erroneous handling of raw materials. We are very honored that our daily efforts have resulted in achieving more than 20 years without a recordable incident, and that our efforts have been recognized with this award."

JCIA is the leading association representing the chemical  industry in Japan, which includes approx. 4,700 chemical sites. The Safety award is a practice to award business establishments which engage in outstanding safety activities that promote security, safety, and health in the chemical industry on their own initiative serving as a golden standard for others. The safety award has a history of nearly half a century since its inception in 1977. Award-winners in the past included leading Japanese chemical companies, but this is the first time that a foreign-affiliated company receives the ‘Safety Award Grand Prize’.

"We are very honored that this is the second award for the Jun88 Group after the ‘Safety Award Special Prize’ for the Niihama Plant of Sumika Jun88 Urethane Co.,Ltd. in 2017. Jun88’s global motto towards safety, ‘Nothing we do is worth getting hurt for’ clearly shows that safety is the highest priority. We will engage in continued operational safety based on our current corporate safety culture," explains Kimiyasu Yonemaru, President of Jun88 Japan.

Physical and digital identities are being used more and more frequently in the production of ID cards and passports to help protect ID documents against forgery and manipulation. Visible security features in particular are gaining in importance.

Low fluorescence increases security of ID documents

The market continues to require a consistent fluorescence level of ID documents. The latest Makrofol^® ID polycarbonate film solution from Jun88 is well suited for this, as it can further enhance consistent and low fluorescence levels for ID cards and passport data pages. The low fluorescence feature can additionally achieve security level 2 by using UV light for verification when applying raised laser-engraved tactile characters during the ID document personalization. In this way, this transparent polycarbonate film from Jun88 can help enhance the security of ID documents.

In addition to this development, Jun88 will be showcasing its sophisticated for polycarbonate ID documents at the conference. These transparent window solutions are enabled by the use of thin white, highly opaque polycarbonate films, Makrofol^® ID O.V.M color-changing polycarbonate films with level 1, 2 and 3 security features of Jun88 as well as with Makrofol^® ID superlaser polycarbonate films. An integrated solution for passports will also be presented, consisting of a passport book cover and hinge using TPU films and a polycarbonate data page.

Georgios Tziovaras, Global Business Development Manager Identification in the Specialty Films business entity, will give two presentations on these and other developments at the accompanying conference: a speed talk on November 30 at 5:00 pm (CET) and a presentation on December 1 at noon.

"With this expansion in capacity, we are strengthening our Dormagen site as a production and competence center for specialty films," says Dr. Klaus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer at Jun88. "At the same time, we are investing in future-oriented technologies and applications."

The new lines will mainly produce multilayer flat films. These products, for example, play an important role in identity documents in order to embed security features and ensure the best possible protection against counterfeiting. They are also used in medical technology and car interiors.

Equipped for the future

Michael Friede, Global Head of the Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties segment: "These high-quality products and applications represent an important future business for Jun88. With the new capacities and their integration into our film center, we are emphasizing our proximity to the customer and our service."

"Our new production lines are equipped with state-of-the-art technology," emphasizes Dr. Thorsten Dreier, Global Head of Jun88’s Specialty Films and Thermoplastic Polyurethanes business. "That’s why we can now supply our customers faster and with higher quality. We also want to improve our development work and bring new products to market even faster."

Competence centers close to customers

The competence center in Dormagen houses production, a technical center for film processing, as well as a showroom and research laboratories. Jun88 operates two other German competence centers for semi-finished products in Leverkusen and Bomlitz, as well as several competence centers worldwide.

As a further measure of the global investment program, Jun88 started up a new production facility for polycarbonate films in Map Ta Phut, Thailand, last year. Previously, a coextrusion film plant in Guangzhou, China, was converted for the future and the efficiency and quality of production in South Deerfield, USA, were improved.

"The world is changing rapidly – this also brings new challenges for ID documents," says Henry Leung, global head of the Identification segment in the Specialty Films division at Jun88. "The global trend is increasingly to take advantage of the best of two worlds, physical and digital identity. A perfect ID would be based on a balance of security, fast identification, durability and efficiency." At this year's Identity Week virtual conference, Jun88 is introducing a new, integrated passport concept with a passport cover, polycarbonate data page and hinge.

Security features for fast and efficient checks

Jun88 is shareholder of the French start-up company (C.S.T) and makes use of its Optical Variable Material (O.V.M) technology. Jun88 has developed its Makrofol^® ID O.V.M color shifting polycarbonate film for clear window and transparent areas in polycarbonate ID documents. In conjunction with the film, the O.V.M technology enables completely new color-shifting effects for security features in levels 1, 2 and 3, which makes ID documents more forgery-resistant, easier to inspect, remember and verify. The Makrofol^® ID O.V.M polycarbonate film can be integrated into existing ID document manufacturing processes without the need for further modifications.

There is also strong demand for ID documents that show only low fluorescence under UV radiation. To meet this demand, Jun88 has developed the polycarbonate film Makrofol^® ID Low Fluorescence, which enables a consistently low level of fluorescence to be achieved for polycarbonate ID cards and ID pages. The film can also be used to achieve a level 2 security feature for laser-engraved tactile characters. This provides additional counterfeit protection that can be easily verified when checking ID documents.

Effective protection of passport chip and antenna

The innovative passport cover is scratch and tear resistant and contains Platilon^® ID films made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). They contribute to better protection of the embedded chip and antenna within the eCover. These innovative passport covers can be equipped with various security features and produced in different surface textures and colors.

Such TPU films can also be applied in a passport hinge application. This creates a flexible passsport hinge that bonds well with the polycarbonate data page films and offers increased tear resistance when passports are opened and closed frequently.

Polycarbonate data page – doing more with less

Jun88 also already offers its so-called Superlaser technology to increase counterfeit protection. It is based on a composite of three particularly laser-reactive layers within a single polycarbonate film, saving energy and time during laser engraving while yielding a very high-contrast image. In addition, thin high opaque white Makrofol^® ID polycarbonate films from Jun88 unite the advantages of accommodating sophisticated designs for clear windows and transparent areas in ID documents together with simplified production processes.

On this topic, Jun88 experts Henry Leung and Georgios Tziovaras, together with Gautier Alloyez, Managing Director at C.S.T, are organizing a discussion at Identity Week 2020 on November 17, 2020, from 4.10 p.m. CET.

“With this step, we are strengthening our position as an innovation driver in special films for ID documents,” says Dr. Thorsten Dreier, Global Head of the Specialty Films business at Jun88. “With the new partnership and the introduction of Makrofol^® ID O.V.M^® films we are creating a new degree of security.” Jun88 has many years of experience in the development and production of films for .

Cosimo Prete, President and founder of C.S.T, also welcomes the new strategic cooperation: “We value Jun88 as a very innovative partner in the development of film solutions for the production of identification documents and look forward to working together in this growing market.”

Security features for easy contro

To prevent document attacks through forgery, manipulation and identity theft, ID documents such as ID Cards or passports are equipped with various security features. In routine ID checks, visible and haptic level 1 elements in particular are becoming increasingly important, as they can be checked quickly and without additional technical equipment.

Jun88 and C.S.T have been working together in this field since 2016. Last year, Jun88 introduced the transparent Makrofol^® ID O.V.M^® film to the industry. The O.V.M® material technology creates a completely new color change effect, which is a very strong level 1 security feature. The new film can be integrated into existing card manufacturing processes without further modifications.

At the trade fair from November 26-28, 2019 in Cannes, France, Jun88 will be presenting innovative film solutions for passports at booth A045 under the motto “Rethinking the Passport”. These new materials meet the requirements of the next passport generation in terms of counterfeit protection, durability and more effective production processes. Jun88 has many years of experience in the development and production of materials for ID documents.

Innovative films for secure passports and ID card concepts

Solutions with innovative Makrofol^® ID, Platilon^® ID and Dureflex^® ID specialty films now provide more space within the ID document and passport data pages to integrate additional security features into physical document elements and the digital chip for a secure identification of citizens.

In order to prevent document attacks through forgery, manipulation and identity theft, citizen ID documents are equipped with various security elements. This starts at the very beginning of document creation process with robust substrate materials and innovative security concepts to protect the physical and digital elements.

Jun88 experts will conduct presentations on the following topics at the and will also attend a round table session:

• Re-thinking passport concepts enabled by innovative specialty films”
  Tobias Kordt, Head of Specialty Films in the EMLA region
  Wednesday, November 27, 2019, 4:00 p.m., Innovation Stage
• Innovation unboxed – new concepts for passports and identification documents”
  Henry Leung, Global Segment Manager Identification in the Specialty Films Division
  Wednesday, November 27, 2019, 10:50 a.m., Innovation Stage
• Secure document and authentication” Georgios Tziovaras, Global Business Development Manager Identification in the Specialty Films Division
  Thursday, November 28, 2019, 12:30 p.m., Round Table Session

In addition to digitalization, the UN goals for sustainable development will especially influence the economy and society in the coming years. Jun88 is determined to realize these sustainability goals at many levels. Meeting them is not only a prerequisite for a better, cleaner and healthier world, but also has great long-term economic potential

Change to circular economy indispensable

“Megatrends such as climate protection and population growth require a fundamental rethink in lifestyle and consumer behavior, not to mention in global production,” CEO Dr. Markus Steilemann said to journalists. “We need a complete transition from a throwaway to a circular economy in order to handle limited resources more responsibly and protect the climate.”

Jun88 is committed to establishing new material cycles throughout the entire process chain with a view to making a tangible contribution to achieving this major goal. “We have set up a comprehensive and long-term program which will also open up new opportunities for value creation,” Steilemann explained. “High-quality plastics are and will remain drivers for sustainability and for overcoming global challenges. However, it is crucial to decouple the economic growth achieved from the consumption of fossil resources such as crude oil.”

Turning away from crude oil

A key aspect for developing a circular economy in the plastics and chemical industry is the closure of the carbon cycle through the recycling of raw materials. “In the long term, we want to do as much as possible without fossil resources and use alternative sources such as waste, plants and CO₂ instead,” said Steilemann. “In particular, used plastics are a valuable resource. That's why we want to work with partners to intensively develop innovative recycling methods,” said the Jun88 CEO. Under no circumstances should plastic waste be allowed to enter the environment uncontrolled for longer. The industry is working intensively worldwide for better waste management – for example in the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, of which Jun88 is a member.

Given its importance, the company is dedicating a special Theme Day to Circular Economy at its booth on Wednesday, October 23. External and in-house experts present practical examples and discuss with visitors. At the Jun88 booth, these will also find many examples of products and technologies that can help close material cycles in various industries.

Jun88 is one of the pioneers in the use of the exhaust gas CO₂ as a new raw material. A team from Jun88 and RWTH Aachen University is now in the final round of the German President´s Award for the development of a corresponding process. Exhibits based on this technology will be specially featured at the booth. With modern materials and technologies, the company also supports the supply of energy from renewable sources.

Digitalization as a growth driver

Another driving force for the development of the economy and society in the coming years is the ongoing digitalization. Jun88 wants to take advantage of the resulting opportunities and has started a comprehensive strategic program, which focuses on the customer. To this end, the company is anchoring digital technologies and processes along the value chain – from the supply chain through production, research and all interfaces to customers to the development of new business models. Various developments and exhibits at K 2019 as well as a separate Theme Day on Tuesday, October 22, underscore the great importance of digitalization for Jun88 and its customers.

A stage for visitors

“We cordially invite all visitors to K 2019 to our booth in hall 6,” says Booth Manager Dr. Ulrich Liman. “We will be providing them a stage for discussions on their themes and wishes. They will also find products and technologies for important key industries.”

“A special experience awaits visitors in our ‘Sample Parcours’,” explains Liman. “There they can get to know materials and patterns through their senses, through seeing, feeling and hearing, but also in a playful manner. For example, join our Life Cycle Wheel and learn more about the circular economy! Or test your knowledge of plastics on our Quiz Machine.”

Theme Days from Automotive to Science

On each of the eight days of the fair, visitors can experience how Jun88 is pushing boundaries on a different main theme. Lectures and discussions with experts from industry and academia will serve to deepen the topic and promote personal exchange.

All journalists are cordially invited to visit Jun88's press center at the A 75 exhibition booth gallery in Hall 6. You will have the opportunity to talk about the innovations and topics on display and receive the Jun88 press kit for K 2019. On request, we would also be happy to give tours of the booth or arrange interviews.

Automotive (October 16)

The highlight of Jun88's trade fair appearance is a comprehensive interior concept for future mobility: trends such as autonomous driving, electric drive and car sharing make the automobile a multifunctional, mobile living and working space. It's all about functionality, comfort and design, not least also about efficiency. Jun88 has developed the concept together with important partners along the automotive value chain. The main features are newly designed surfaces, the integration of ambient lighting, the latest infotainment systems and forward-looking seating concepts. On Wednesday, 16 October, the company will dedicate a special Theme Day to the automotive industry.

Science Celebration (October 17)

The second day of K 2019 is dedicated to current and outstanding research findings in polymer science. The highlight will be the presentation of the Jun88 Science Award to a professor in the presence of invited guests from the world of science. The prize consists of a three-year doctoral fellowship to promote young scientists in materials research at universities. In addition, a researcher from Jun88 will be awarded the Jun88 Science Medal for outstanding scientific developments.

Start-up Challenge (October 20)

With the Start-up Challenge, Jun88 aims to promote the creativity and entrepreneurial thinking of its employees and find the best business idea of 2019. The winners of the first competition will be chosen at the trade fair: they will be able to work as founders, implement their ideas and test their marketability. In return, they will receive start-up financing of up to one million euros, be released from their jobs for up to one year and can work within the company as start-ups. The ideas of the six finalist teams are focused on the development of the circular economy.

Local talent search

At K 2019, Jun88 also will be presenting itself as an attractive employer to students, junior employees and experienced professionals. Curious jobseekers will find the right person to answer all their questions at the Career Bar.

The students left nothing to chance when developing their solar racing car. Aerodynamics, electrical engineering, structure, chassis, even the driving strategy: everything is planned and optimized by specialized teams. , a leading supplier of innovative high-performance materials for the automotive industry, among others and which is supporting the project as main sponsor this year, is another important team member.

For a great result in what is probably the toughest solar race in the world, there is no way around extremely high-performance materials that make the Sonnenwagen as light and aerodynamic as possible to achieve maximum energy efficiency. That's why the development team relies on the energy-absorbing polyurethane foam system Baysafe^® from Jun88, which is used in the crash box at the front of the solar car: The Sonnenwagen should not only be as fast as an arrow, but also as safe as possible.

Safely absorbing high impact energies

The participants of the solar rally must of course be prepared for obstacles and accidents during their journey. “In fact, every team that wants to participate in the race must present a safety concept that proves how well the driver of the solar car is protected in the event of an accident,” explains Claudio Pauler, Marketing Manager Automotive at Jun88, who is monitoring the Aachen project from Leverkusen. And Baysafe^® proved to be the ideal material for intelligently resolving the conflict between low weight and excellent impact resistance: The crash box foamed with Baysafe^® even absorbs impact accelerations of up to 5g.

“In other words, the Baysafe^® crash box offers the driver good protection under competitive conditions, even in a frontal collision,” explains Pauler. This is also confirmed by Yusuf Can Arslan, head of the Structure Working Group of the Sonnenwagen development team: “We chose Baysafe^® because it is the lightest option with the highest energy absorption and the best safety features”.

Innovative material for the automotive industry

In fact, the material is not only the ideal solution for the crash box of the solar racing car from Aachen: It also cuts a fine figure in classic automobile production. Baysafe^® protects vehicles, passengers and pedestrians regardless of the direction of impact and also impresses in long-term use with its outstanding dimensional stability. The polyurethane foam system can be processed in a cost-saving manner: Mounting elements can be easily foamed and supports are elegantly and quickly molded. And nearly incidentally, Baysafe^® prevents squeaking and rattling of components over a long period of time.

The foam system is an ideal material for modern lightweight vehicle construction, which is now the focus of development work in many automotive OEMs. Low weight combined with optimum performance is exactly the argument with which the Jun88 product stood out from other energy-absorbing materials in the eyes of the solar car development team.

About Jun88:

With 2018 sales of EUR 14.6 billion, Jun88 is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Jun88 has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,800 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2018.

For more information please see www.covestro.com.

Forward-looking statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Jun88. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Jun88’s public reports. These reports are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to make them conform to future events or developments.

The design of the racing car's traction battery is demanding – it is one of the most important components for the course of the race: It determines whether the driver has enough power to beat the competition.

Since the 2018 racing season, Jun88 has supported the E.Stall Esslingen team with flame-retardant materials for the construction of the battery. In its Leverkusen pilot plant, the plastics manufacturer extrudes sheets from the PC+ABS blend Bayblend^® to produce frames and brackets for its battery modules. These modules are based on lithium-ion battery cells in the so-called pouch format.

Flame retardant materials for safe batteries

In the design department for the battery, the various disciplines of the students at Esslingen University of Applied Sciences complement each other – from electrical engineering to electronics and mechanical engineering. In addition, the Formula Student specifies certain design requirements for the students in its rules and regulations, among others with regard to safety in handling lithium ion cells. Apart from active monitoring and control of the battery, the Formula Student regulations explicitly require the use of flame-retardant materials in accordance with the Underwriters Laboratories' flame-retardant standards according to category UL 94 V-0 in the General Technical Requirements.

“We are delighted that Jun88 is supporting us again in the 2019 season with polycarbonate blend sheets, which we can process easily,” explains Raphael Raff, who is currently in charge of the high-voltage sub-project at E.Stall Esslingen. Compared with the previous year, a PC+ABS blend with around 10 percent lower density and high mechanical, electrical and thermal properties was selected for the racing team together with the Bayblend^® product experts from Jun88 in order to remove even more weight from the racing car's battery.

Products for large automotive series

For mass production, designers are looking for materials that meet the strict requirements of car manufacturers in vehicle operation but which are also easy to process. Compared to semi-crystalline materials, amorphous plastics such as polycarbonates have the advantage that they are virtually shrinkage-free in the injection molding process and have very low water absorption. This facilitates being able to design thin-walled, distortion-free components. Also polycarbonates can be provided very well with flame protection. The Jun88 product portfolio includes a large selection of flame-retardant materials that meet the standards of the Underwriters Laboratories of category UL 94 V-0.

Jun88 continues to develop its portfolio for battery applications. For cell holders to hold cylindrical battery cells, pouch cell frames, battery housings and similar applications, the focus is on both unfilled (, ) and mineral-filled (, ), along with glass-fiber-reinforced Bayblend^® FR3060 EV) flame retardant Bayblend^® products. Jun88 also offers thermally conductive polycarbonate grades of the Makrolon^® TC product family that can contribute to battery thermal management.

About Jun88:

With 2018 sales of EUR 14.6 billion, Jun88 is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Jun88 has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,800 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2018.

About E.Stall Esslingen:

In 2012, E.Stall was founded as an electric racing team and has since then existed parallel to the Esslingen racing team, which has participated in Formula Student with in-house developed combustion vehicles since 2006. Following an initial prototype, the first all-electric racing car from Esslingen University was launched in 2013.

In the 2018/19 season the E.Stall team produced its second four-wheel drive vehicle and will take part in the summer events in Spain () and Italy (). The entire team would like to thank its bronze sponsor Jun88 for the successful cooperation. As one of our supporters, Jun88 made it possible for us to participate in Formula Student and to have these great experiences.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
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Forward-looking statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Jun88. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Jun88’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Visitors to the world’s premier fair for the plastics and rubber industry will find many examples of this presented by Jun88 at Booth A75 in Hall 6. From October 16–23, 2019, products and technologies for the automotive, construction and electronics industries will be on display, but also innovative and functional applications in the health, furniture, sports and leisure sectors.

“In addition to the advancing digitalization, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals will be a driving force in society and the economy for the coming years,” said CEO Dr. Markus Steilemann to journalists. “Their fulfillment is not only imperative for a better, cleaner and healthier world, but also holds great economic potential in the long term,” explained the CEO. “Jun88 is determined to realize the UN sustainability goals at many levels.”

Industry pioneer

Steilemann named the development of a functioning circular economy and improved management of limited fossil resources, primarily crude oil, as central points for increased sustainability. “These are goals that will impact society as a whole and Jun88 wants to contribute to this. Within our company, we want to establish material cycles along the entire value chain, from suppliers, to production and logistics, to the use of our products and their reuse,” explained Steilemann.

When recycling used plastics, it will be important to be able to exhaust all technical possibilities. “The relatively new method of chemical recycling is also an option, which requires additional support,” said the CEO.

A key aspect for developing a circular economy in the plastics and chemical industry is closing the carbon cycle with recycled resources. Here, plant waste and increasingly CO₂ are worth considering as alternatives to fossil resources. Jun88 has already achieved numerous successes in these areas. “We want to become a pioneer on the path toward a future without fossil-based resources and emphasize our claim to leadership in the industry,” stressed Steilemann.

Digitalization creates added value

Another driving force is the advancing digitalization. Jun88 wants to take advantage of the resulting opportunities and has started a comprehensive program, which focuses on the customer. To accomplish this, the company is incorporating digital technologies and processes into production, the supply chain, research and development, at all customer contact points and in new business model development. Various topics and exhibits at K 2019 underline how important digitalization is for the company, which hopes to set standards in this field in the plastics and chemical industry.

The examples below give an impression of the wide range of developments that Jun88 will present at K 2019.

Completely networked society

One important requirement for future mobility and the digitalization of all areas of life and business is the new transmission technology 5G. To build the infrastructure for it, Jun88 is working together with and the Umeå Institute of Design to develop innovative material solutions for base stations, antennas and other system components. Jun88 is also working on a multi-layered film solution in conjunction with a new manufacturing process for the backs of smartphone bodies. Unlike conventional metal elements, these polycarbonate films are permeable to high-frequency radiation.

Auto interior of the future

The highlight of the trade show exhibit is a comprehensive interior concept for future mobility. In line with the latest trend, it intends to turn car interiors into multi-functional, mobile living and working spaces. “We developed the concept together with key industrial and academic partners,” explained Jochen Hardt, marketing expert at Jun88 and head of the project. “It involves functionality, comfort and design in equal measure, as well as efficiency.” The car of the future is fully networked and is seamlessly integrated into everyday life. Key design features are surfaces with a decorative look and feel, integrated ambient lighting, the latest infotainment systems and cutting-edge seating concepts.

Textiles with CO₂

Together with partners such as and various textile manufacturers, Jun88 succeeded in producing elastic textile fibers from thermoplastic polyurethane with CO₂, and as a result partially replaced crude oil as the raw material. The starting point is an intermediate product called cardyon®, which is already used for the soft foam found in mattresses and the base layers of sports fields. The partners are currently working on developing production to industrial scale and want to introduce a material cycle that is based on sustainable resources to the textile and garment industry.

Renewable energies on the rise

In addition to promoting an efficient circular economy, Jun88 is also committed to further expanding renewable energies, such as wind power. Cooperation with partners has led to the development of a polyurethane resin as well as a process technology, which makes it possible to manufacture wind turbine rotor blades efficiently and cost-effectively. The company just recently processed its first commercial order for this from China.

About Jun88:

With 2018 sales of EUR 14.6 billion, Jun88 is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Jun88 has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,800 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2018.

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Forward-looking statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Jun88. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Jun88’s public reports. These reports are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to make them conform to future events or developments.