TPE with Recycled Content for Automotive Interiors
Hexpol TPE’s has expanded its portfolio of Dryflex Circular TPE grades with recycled content.
An expanded portfolio of TPEs with recycled content is now being offered by (U.S. office in Sandusky, Ohio). The new Dryflex Circular TPE grades have been tested for odor emissions performance in automotive interior applications such as inlay mats, cup holders, sealing lips and HVAC parts.
First launched in 2019, Dryflex Circular TPEs were developed to support the shift from finite fossil-based virgin materials. Recycled polymers from various sources, including PCR (post-consumer recyclate) and PIR (post-industrial recyclate), are incorporated into the Dryflex Circular TPEs. They can also be recycled in closed-loop systems at the end of life. An key aspect of automotive interior parts is their emission behaviour regarding odor and volatile substances. The exact specifications and requirements vary depending on application and OEM. But generally, the material odor must not be disturbing even at higher temperatures (e.g., 80 C/176 F).