Borealis AG Presents Innovative Developments in High-Performance Polypropylenes at IZB Auto Supplier Show

Strategic Insights -

Borealis AG showcased its pioneering developments in high-performance polypropylenes at the 2010 IZB auto supplier show in Wolfsburg, Germany. The company presented several innovative solutions that meet the industry's demands for lightweight, flexibility, aesthetics, and cost savings. Borealis' Xmod GB306SAF material enabled the first-ever molding of high-performance glass-reinforced polypropylene for Air Intake Manifolds (AIMs), resulting in cost savings and reduced vehicle weight and fuel consumption. The Xmod AIMs were used in Volkswagen's 1.4L and 1.6L engines for various models.

Key Takeaways:

  • Borealis' Xmod GB306SAF material allows for the molding of high-performance glass-reinforced polypropylene for AIMs, reducing weight and fuel consumption.
  • The Xmod AIMs are used in Volkswagen's 1.4L and 1.6L engines for the Golf, Polo, Seat, and Skoda models.
  • Daimler's Smart Fortwo is the first car to feature body panels entirely produced from Borealis' Daplen ED230HP elastomer modified PP (TPO), which reduces parts weight by 15%.
  • Borealis' Daplen VB4411 TPO with 10% mineral filler is used in the VW Touareg bumper fascias, meeting requirements for low thermal expansion and zero gap dimensional tolerance.
  • The company's investment in supply capabilities and partnerships is strengthened through its joint venture with Borouge, which recently inaugurated a 50,000-tonne/y compounding plant.
  • Plans are underway to build a second compounding plant in China.

Statistics:

  • 15% reduction in parts weight for the Daimler Smart Fortwo's body panels produced from Daplen ED230HP elastomer modified PP (TPO).
  • 10% mineral filler content in Borealis' Daplen VB4411 TPO used in the VW Touareg bumper fascias.
  • 50,000-tonne/y compounding plant inaugurated by Borealis' joint venture, Borouge.

Sources:

  • Borealis AG press release, 6 October 2010.