DUESSELDORF, Germany—Japanese materials supplier Asahi Kasei released new engineering plastics and foam materials for the automotive industry at K 2019.
The company has unveiled the AKXY, a fully-drivable electric concept car at its stand featuring Asahi Kasei polymers used in various applications. The car will use low-VOC Tenac polyacetal (POM) for improved in-cabin air quality.
Ideal for applications in the automotive interior, Tenac is claimed to have the world's lowest VOC emission class, while providing properties such as low friction, scratch resistance and a high mechanical strength.
The material is used for production of seat adjustment sliders, lumbar supports, or seat belt push buttons.
In addition, Asahi Kasei recently has developed a metal look low-VOC Tenac, using aluminium flake as a filler.
The concept car features a panoramic roof using glass-reinforced Thermylene polypropylene, which offers a high flowability and cost advantages compared to polyamide, according to Asahi Kasei.
To protect the car against sunlight, UV-resistant Leona polyamide has been used for exterior mirror brackets and some interior applications, such as the thin-walled and unpainted blades of a the dashboard venting system.
To deliver sound insulation inside the car, Asahi Kasei is developing what it claims is the first polyamide bead foam.
Featuring the proven properties of polyamide, such as high heat and chemical resistance, the special C-shape beads will enable a significant noise reduction, according to the materials supplier.
Asahi Kasei also will highlight the various applications for its modified polyphenylene ether product Xyrontm at K.
Thanks to its low density, mPPE is suitable for a wide range of lightweight components, such as relay blocks, bonnet panels and brackets.
With rising demand for electromobility, Xyron is especially suitable for structural battery parts, where it contributes to a compact format and weight savings.
Another item on display will be SunForce-branded mPPE particle foam, used for improved safety and efficiency.
The foam is claimed to offer outstanding flame retardancy and superior heat insulation properties, while functioning as a lightweight shock-absorbing material for automotive battery packs.