Keywords
Citation
(2004), "Automakers adopt new scratch-resistant TPOs from Borealis for car interiors", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 33 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.2004.12933fad.003
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2004, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Automakers adopt new scratch-resistant TPOs from Borealis for car interiors
Automakers adopt new scratch-resistant TPOs from Borealis for car interiors
Keywords: Automotive industry, Thermoplastics
With the introduction of Borealis thermoplastic olefin grades (TPOs) EE137AE and EE137HP, Borealis has created an innovative, scratch-resistant injection-moulding compound specifically designed for automotive interiors and similar demanding applications (Plate 1). The scratch-resistant nature of the polypropylene (PP) compounds is the result of engineering as much performance as possible into the base resin while minimising fillers and additives. In addition, the remaining fillers and additives benefit from proprietary formulations to further enhance properties of the new grades.
Plate 1
With the introduction of Borealis thermoplastic olefin grades (TPOs) EE137AE and
EE137HP, Borealis has created an innovative, scratch-resistant
injection-moulding compound specifically designed for automotive interiors and
similar demanding applications
“Thermoplastics for automotive interior applications have increasingly called for a complex mix of properties”, said Robert Füreder, Segment Leader Interior, Borealis. “Injection-moulded parts not destined for foil decoration or painting require high surface and touch aesthetics, low gloss, and scratch resistance. Low emissions are needed to prevent window fogging and meet other ergonomic and environmental requirements. The new Borealis TPO-grades meet or exceed these specifications.”
The new formulations directly address the shortcomings of earlier TPOs and have been rapidly accepted by key automakers and suppliers in Europe. Borealis is the sole supplier of TPO for the recently launched Fiat Panda, Idea and Lancia Y-door cladding and instrument panels. In addition, Borealis is supplying the middle console in Volkswagen’s 2005. Johnson Controls and Kendrion among others have also adopted the material for a variety of components.
In addition to excellent scratch resistance, these specialised grades exhibit low gloss, high flow, low density, odour, emissions, and fogging. The grades are related—EE137HP is a shrinkage-modified version of EE137AE.