Trexel opening global licensing of its MuCell foaming process

WOBURN, Mass. (June 23)—Trexel Inc. is in talks with several vehicle body sealing producers about further licensing its MuCell foaming process for thermoplastic vulcanizate profiles. The company claims its foaming technology, which uses supercritical fluids, provides a superior, closed-cell surface for less water absorption and better appearance compared to competing foaming processes. Trexel is in active licensing discussions with three new seal makers each from the U.S. and Europe, said President David Bernstein, and expects to close at least a couple of additional licenses by the end of September. Trexel already has five licensees for the process: one each for automotive extrusions in the U.S., Japan and Europe, a Japanese electronics company and another, non-automotive U.S. company. In the U.S., Jyco Sealing Technologies Inc. has had an 18-month lead on the technology in automotive sealing applications. The Ann Arbor, Mich.-based company is actively quoting the foamed TPV seals.