Plastics Technology

JUN 2017

Plastics Technology - Dedicated to improving Plastics Processing.

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Summarizing recent innovations in thermoplastics for automotive is no small task. Virtually everything that meets one's eye in a vehicle's interior is thermoplastic these days, and the same goes for a look under the hood and a good deal of what is visible on the exterior—not to mention innumer- able plastic components that don't meet the eye in powertrain, chassis, and else- where. And while much of the conversation about automotive plastics dwells on lightweighting for fuel efficiency, there are many other performance requirements that drive materials developments, such as resistance to fuels and chemicals, heat, wear, sunlight, and weather. In other cases, the goal is improved processability to enhance quality and reduce manufacturing cost. Jeffrey Helms, global automotive OEM corporate accounts director at Celanese (celanese.com), Irving, Texas, is among those who note that vehicle fuel economy and CO 2 emission targets are the two biggest drivers and challenges in the global automotive market. Driving materials developments are hotter under- hood temperatures associated with downsized and turbocharged internal combustion engines, and an increase in electrification with a corresponding need to reduce vehicle mass to increase vehicle range. By Lilli Manolis Sherman Senior Editor Lightweighting and resistance to heat, chemicals and weathering drive developments in thermoplastics for interiors, exteriors, underhood, powertrain, and chassis. AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS New Thermoplastic Solutions Redefine 'Performance' from All Angles Air-intake manifolds and charge-air ducts are targets for BASF's Ultramid Endure nylon 66. 44 JUNE 2017 Plastics Technology PTonline.com M ATERIAL S

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