Solvay has announced it will begin producing high-performance polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) polymers early next year in order to meet growing demand from the aerospace industry. The company’s site in Augusta, Georgia, USA, will produce the polymers, which will be sold under the name NovaSpire.

“This new capacity will address fast-growing demand for thermoplastic composites and 3D printing components in aerospace and in other markets,” said Roger Kearns, a member of Solvay’s executive committee.

PEKK is used in thermoplastic composites reinforced with carbon fibers and in additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, in a range of industrial applications. The resin’s excellent mechanical characteristics are said to make it an ideal replacement for structural components made from steel in the aerospace, automotive and chemical industries.