HEXPOL Develops Low VOC TPE Materials with Recycled Content for Automotive Interiors
HEXPOL has successfully approved materials from the Dryflex Circular TPE range to the Porsche PN 780 standard.
The standard is a method for testing the odor and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from materials used in a vehicle’s interior. It requires specific testing to ensure the materials used meet low-emission and low-odor requirements, contributing to better indoor air quality for passengers.
The Dryflex Circular TPE range contains varying amounts of recycled content up to around 75%. Post-Industrial (PIR) and Post-Consumer (PCR) recyclate sources are used, depending on the requirements of the end application.
Dryflex PIR 853317-2 TPE with 45% recyclate content was tested for VOC emissions and odor according to the Porsche PN 780 standard. The individual substances (amine, formaldehyde, ketones) and the TVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compounds) results were shown to be far below the limit.
Odour was also tested according to VDA 270, a standard of the German Automotive Association (Verband der Automobilindustrie). The results show a 3.0 rating, indicating the odor is not disturbing to occupants’ comfort.
The Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) of Dryflex PIR 853317-2 TPE showed a 43% reduction in CO2e per kg TPE compared to the equivalent virgin TPE material.
Dr.-Ing. Thomas Köppl, global head of product management, commented, “These VOC and odor requirements are extremely challenging to meet, even with virgin materials. I’m proud that we’ve achieved them using TPEs that contain recyclate. It is another example of how HEXPOL is enabling automotive OEMs to address both passenger comfort and recyclate targets”.
Low VOC Dryflex Circular TPEs can be used in several automotive interior applications such as inlay mats, floor mats, sealings and interior trim.
About HEXPOL TPE
HEXPOL TPE is an international polymer compounding group specializing in Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) for key industries such as consumer, medical, packaging, automotive and construction. We were among the 1st companies to produce TPEs in Europe, and more than 60 years later, the possibilities continue to inspire us – yes, we’re self-confessed TPE freaks!
Our international teams work with customers around the world, developing new polymer combinations and creating customized materials that are safer, more durable, more sustainable. As part of the HEXPOL Group of companies, we share an extensive global footprint. Covering Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America, enabling us to support our customers worldwide
