Greene Tweed, a global leader in advanced materials and high-performance solutions, has announced the launch of Arlon^® 3160XT, a new glass-reinforced, cross-linked PEEK material for fuel cell, electrolyzer and valve components. With exceptional creep resistance and electrical insulation properties, Arlon 3160XT represents a significant advancement in materials science, addressing critical needs in H₂ applications.

H₂ energy is gaining momentum as a clean, renewable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the transition to commercial-scale H₂ production, storage, and utilization requires solutions for key material challenges. Introduced at the H₂ and Fuel Cell Seminar in Long Beach, CA, Arlon 3160XT is engineered to bridge this gap by enhancing performance and reliability in key H₂ systems. Expanding on the capabilities of Greene Tweed’s trusted Arlon^® 3000XT platform, this new grade delivers improved performance in the most demanding environments.

"One of the biggest challenges in the H₂ industry has been the need for scalable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions that enhance production and distribution while withstanding extreme conditions," said Kerry Drake, PhD, Corporate Thermoplastics Technology Manager at Greene Tweed. "Arlon 3160XT is engineered to meet this challenge, helping streamline H₂ processes, reduce operational costs, and deliver exceptional performance and reliability."

Key Arlon 3160XT product features include: 

• Creep resistance: 20X+ improvement compared to non-cross-linked glass-filled PEEK, ensuring long-term durability under sustained mechanical loads.
• High-temperature performance: 30%─70% improvement in short-term elevated temperature conditions over standard glass PEEK materials (tensile, flex, shear).
• Electrical insulation: Maintains insulative properties and resists degradation in critical electrochemical cells, enabling long operational lifespans.
• Flame resistance: Laboratory tests indicate improved structural integrity after flame exposure.

Combining innovation, performance, and reliability, Arlon 3160XT marks a step forward in the evolution of engineered materials for industries where failure is not an option.