Empower Materials

Empower Materials Inc. produces the QPACR line of carbon dioxide-based polymers used for improving manufacturing technologies. Empower Materials Inc. was founded in 1991 as PAC Polymers Inc. and changed its name in 2001 to reflect the broadening of its application focus beyond binders for ceramic green tapes. Our two main products are QPAC®25 and QPAC®40-high molecular weight thermoplastics. The company's headquarters is located in New Castle, DE - USA.

QPAC® poly(alkylene carbonate) copolymers are a unique family of innovative thermoplastics representing a true break-through in polymer technology. While traditional plastics have been primarily petroleum based, these materials are derived from carbon dioxide and are produced through the copolymerization of CO₂ with one or more epoxides. The resultant polymers are amorphous, clear, readily processible, and have long-term mechanical stability. They are also environmentally friendly by consuming 50% fewer petrochemicals, as compared to other polymers which are 100% petrochemical based. In addition, they may exhibit biodegradable properties consistent with an environmentally friendly binder.

QPAC® 25, polyethylene carbonate, and QPAC® 40, polypropylene carbonate, are the two most widely used products within our family of binders. However, there are a wide range of QPAC® polymers possible by varying the epoxide monomer or using blends of epoxides to produce a specific reaction. Our technical group has the expertise to effectively work with you to develop the appropriate product for your application.