New Materials Target 800V Electric Vehicles and Renewable Energy Applications
SABIC, a Saudi Arabian chemical company, officially launched two high-performance polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) compounds—LNP THERMOCOMP OFM76XXP and OFM76EXP—on July 24, specifically engineered for high-voltage power modules. These materials are primarily aimed at 800-volt and higher electric vehicle traction inverters, fast-charging systems, and renewable energy infrastructure, effectively improving the safety and performance of high-voltage switching devices such as insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs).
SABIC stated that as electric vehicles and industrial equipment evolve toward higher voltages and power densities, traditional materials struggle to meet the stringent demands for insulation and heat resistance. The newly introduced PPS compounds not only provide excellent electrical insulation but also maintain stable operation in extreme environments, offering a more reliable solution for high-voltage power modules.
Electrical Insulation and Heat Resistance Meet Industry’s Highest Standards
SABIC emphasized that both PPS compounds achieve a Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) of PLC 0, the highest level of electrical insulation standard, effectively preventing surface leakage currents in high-voltage environments. Additionally, after 1,000 hours of heat aging at 200°C, the materials retain 90% of their strength and insulation capability, demonstrating exceptional stability under prolonged high-temperature operation.
In terms of flame retardancy, both compounds have earned UL94 V0 certification, with a minimum wall thickness of 0.4 millimeters, meeting the rigorous safety requirements for electric vehicles and industrial applications. SABIC noted that compared to traditional polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyphthalamide (PPA) materials, the new PPS compounds offer superior dimensional stability and thermal shock resistance, enabling the production of thinner and lighter components to further enhance the efficiency and reliability of power modules.
OFM76EXP Features Advanced Properties to Expand Application Scope
SABIC further explained that the OFM76EXP grade excels in multiple performance areas, including enhanced laser-marking capability, strong adhesion to silicone-based sealants, and outstanding crack resistance. SABIC claimed that OFM76EXP possesses the highest impact strength among comparable materials, effectively resisting mechanical stress and extending component lifespan.
These properties make OFM76EXP suitable not only for electric vehicle inverters but also for high-voltage direct current (DC) power transmission systems, integrated busbar brackets, and renewable energy infrastructure. Sergi Monros, Vice President of SABIC, stated that as electric vehicles and industrial equipment advance toward higher voltages, greater power densities, and miniaturization, manufacturers urgently need advanced materials that enhance stability and efficiency, and the new PPS compounds align with this trend.
PPS resins inherently offer excellent heat resistance and tracking resistance, effectively preventing the formation of conductive paths on insulator surfaces in high-voltage environments, which is particularly critical in 800V and higher power electronic systems. SABIC confirmed that these materials are now globally available, though specific industry partners or real-world application cases have not yet been disclosed. While the material performance has been validated through internal testing, third-party independent test results and large-scale commercial adoption remain to be observed.
