Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP)

Liquid crystal polymers (LCP) are high performance polymers that feature a unique molecular structure that consists of rigid, rod-like macromolecules. When the LCP is subjected to shear during processing, the rigid molecules order themselves into fibers and fibrils which are frozen-in when the polymer cools. This is why LCP's are considered as self-reinforcing polymers. Key characteristics of LCP's are very high continuous use temperatures, inherent flame retardancy, excellent oxidation and chemical resistance, very high strength and stiffness, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and very low melt viscosity. Applications for LCP's include electric and electronic components, connectors, cookware, film, medical equipment, fibers, rope, sporting goods, and automotive and aerospace components.