Orion Advances Electrically Conductive and High-Performance Compounds with Carbon Nanotube Technology

Orion is proud to announce the continued expansion of its advanced additive technologies portfolio with the successful commercialization of multiple carbon nanotube (CNT)–reinforced thermoplastic compounds across several market segments. Over the past year, Orion has leveraged its deep compounding expertise to incorporate single-wall, multi-wall, and CNT masterbatch technologies into a variety of polymer systems — delivering exceptional performance in electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and thermal stability.

These developments span base resins such as polypropylene (PP), ABS, polycarbonate (PC), polyamides (PA6 and PA66), and other engineered thermoplastics, offering customers a full range of static-dissipative (ESD), conductive, and structural solutions.

“Carbon nanotubes allow us to push material performance well beyond conventional fillers,” said Ryan Divens. “We can achieve conductivity and strength at very low loadings, maintaining good flow, surface finish, and dimensional control — all critical factors in precision-molded parts.”

Performance and Processing Advantages

  • Electrical Conductivity: CNTs form efficient conductive networks at low concentrations, enabling ESD-safe and EMI-shielding applications without sacrificing mechanical integrity.
  • Mechanical Enhancement: CNTs significantly improve tensile, flexural, and impact properties, particularly in engineered polymers.
  • Thermal Stability: Enhanced heat resistance and dimensional control make CNT compounds suitable for demanding environments.
  • Process Efficiency: Optimized dispersion techniques ensure uniform properties and reliable performance in extrusion and injection molding processes.

Applications Across Industries

Orion’s CNT-enhanced compounds are finding success in a wide array of applications, including:

  • Electronics and electrical components – housings, connectors, and ESD-safe packaging.
  • Automotive and EV markets – lightweight conductive components and under-hood parts.
  • Industrial and aerospace – EMI-shielding, static control, and structural elements.

“Our work with carbon nanotubes reflects Orion’s ongoing investment in advanced material technologies,” said Ryan. “We’re helping customers solve complex challenges — from conductivity to weight reduction — with solutions that are both high-performing and production-ready.”

Through continued development in nanocomposite compounding, Orion reinforces its position as a leader in engineered thermoplastic innovation, delivering next-generation materials designed to meet the evolving needs of high-performance markets.