SABIC Introduces ULTEM Oligomer to Improve Aerospace Composite Performance

Published date:07/05/2026 | Last updated date:07/05/2026

SABIC has launched ULTEM SU3102P reactive oligomer, a new thermoplastic modifier designed to improve the toughness, processing efficiency and durability of thermoset composite structures used in aerospace and other high-performance applications.

The material is aimed at a growing aerospace challenge: producing lighter, thinner and tougher composite parts while improving manufacturing throughput within existing production footprints.

High loading gives designers more flexibility

According to SABIC, ULTEM SU3102P can achieve loadings of up to 50% by weight, compared with typical reactive polyethersulfone (rPES) loading levels of around 7–12%.

That higher loading capacity gives composite designers more room to adjust performance without sacrificing processability.

The oligomer also improves the toughness-stiffness balance by up to 140% compared with rPES, helping parts better resist fracture, impact damage and long-term service stress.

Lower viscosity supports faster processing

Despite its high loading capability, the material maintains low formulation viscosity. This supports more consistent resin flow and efficient prepreg production.

SABIC says the oligomer can help improve productivity and energy efficiency in thermoset composite prepreg manufacturing by up to 30%.

Just as important, it can be used in existing manufacturing processes and is compatible with a broad range of thermoset resin systems.

Built for demanding aerospace conditions

Like SABIC’s broader ULTEM portfolio, SU3102P offers:

• inherent flame retardance
• high heat resistance
• chemical resistance
• low coefficient of thermal expansion
• strong mechanical performance

These properties are especially relevant for aerospace structures where durability, safety and long-term dimensional stability are critical.

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This article is developed based on real engineering experience, machine testing data, and practical production knowledge from Jota Machinery’s work in advanced composite manufacturing.

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Editorial perspective

This launch matters because aerospace composite innovation is increasingly focused on manufacturing efficiency, not only material strength.

A resin modifier that improves toughness while fitting into existing processes can be highly valuable. It allows manufacturers to raise part performance without forcing major changes to equipment, qualification routes or production workflows.

For aerospace suppliers, that combination—better durability, faster processing and easier adoption—is often what determines whether a material moves from technical promise to real production use.