US-based Cytec Industries has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with German manufacturer of acrylic fibers Dralon to explore and develop large-tow industrial grade carbon fiber.

The deal also includes potential joint investment in a separate entity, possibly with other external partners, said Cytec CEO Shane Fleming.

Demand for this type of fiber is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by increasing use in industrial markets such as automotive.

Fleming said OEM manufacturers are actively researching the technology to help achieve lighter-weight vehicles with greater fuel efficiency. Cytec, he added, offers a strong channel to market for high performance automotive applications, as well as decades of experience supplying the aerospace industry. 

The collaboration also will be able to draw on Dralon's manufacturing experience in acrylic fiber production, its rich brand identity - as a former part of Bayer - and its ideal location relative to the target market, Fleming said.

Taking on Dralon as a collaborator will also add capability to convert an acrylic fibers facility to produce heavy-tow precursors of large-tow as well as other types of carbon fiber.

"With our local footprint, we will be able to offer superior security of supply of high quality large tow carbon fiber to the European market," Dralon CEO Stefan Braun said.