SABIC announced on May 5 the launch of ULTEM SU3102P reactive oligomer, a new toughening agent designed for thermoset composites used in aerospace structures. The product is intended for use in both primary and secondary components such as wings, fuselage frames, spoilers, and interior parts.
The introduction of this polyetherimide (PEI) oligomer is significant as it aims to support the development of advanced aerospace structures that require lightweight materials with high durability. The company said the new material offers greater formulation flexibility without compromising processability and has received recognition as a Gold winner at the 2026 Edison Awards.
“As global air traffic increases significantly with more passengers and cargo, the industry faces pressure to build capacity and throughput within its existing footprint, while still meeting cost, safety and sustainability goals,” said Sergi Monros, vice president of SABIC Polymers, Specialties BU. “Our new ULTEM oligomer can help designers create lighter, thinner and tougher composite structures, increase manufacturing efficiency and cut emissions. This addition to our ULTEM portfolio builds on a long history of success in aerospace applications and demonstrates our strong commitment to materials innovation.”
According to SABIC’s announcement, ULTEM SU3102P is currently the only thermoplastic solution capable of achieving loadings up to 50 percent by weight—much higher than typical reactive polyethersulfone (rPES), which allows for loadings between 7 to 12 percent. The company also reported that this new oligomer improves toughness-stiffness balance by up to 140 percent compared with rPES materials. This improvement could lead to reduced maintenance time and costs as well as increased air safety due to enhanced part durability.
The material maintains low viscosity even at high loading levels, supporting efficient processing that may reduce production cycle times by up to 30 percent according to SABIC. It is compatible with a wide range of thermoset resin systems and can be integrated into existing manufacturing processes without major changes.
ULTEM SU3102P retains properties found in other products from SABIC’s ULTEM line such as strength, flame retardance, resistance to heat and chemicals, along with a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). The material is now available globally for sampling or commercial purchase.
