PE rattan

[jetdriver]

I am venturing outside of my comfort zone in aerospace and mechanical engineering by leaping into a current project. I could use some expert nudging.

I am sourcing a high density polyethylene rattan material for outdoor furniture applications. Specifically, I am looking for a material that is UV and weather resistant, durable with a life span of 5+ years, attractive in color and feel, sustainable in ability to be recycled and non toxic, and American made.

My research has yielded promise in all areas with one great exception....I can only find this stuff across the pond in Indonesia and China. Before "giving in" and investing (my own capital) in a product I don't feel good about, I figure it would be worth asking. Are there U.S. based extruders that have experience in this material? Thanks in advance for any insight or suggestions!! Ben

 

[patprimmer]

Yes. There are plenty of extruders in the USA who could easily mould this.

It is pretty easy to make, hence the manufacture being sent to low tech developing countries. I doubt you will find a quality advantage worth the premium to buy American in this case.

Regards
Pat
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[Demon3]

Spartech are huge in extrusion in the US. Contact them (no affiliation). If you find my contact information through Google I will provide contact info to someone there.

Chris DeArmitt PhD FRSC CChem