The Polymer Group has introduced new substrates for mouldable automotive components made from recyclable materials that improve the acoustics in vehicles.
Used in boot and wheel well liners, the substrates - made from recyclable polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) - provide a barrier to absorb sound and reduce noise in the interior compartment of a vehicle by 25 to 30 percent.
The company has also developed a one-step manufacturing process that combines the recycled materials with a top virgin-facing material, integrating both through layering and needlepunching. This one-step process, and the use of recyclable materials, produces a more cost-effective product according to the company.
Colours specified by OEMs and Tier I automotive suppliers can be incorporated during this process. The colour-specified face fibres ensure weather and abrasion resistance . Additives for UV protection can be engineered into the polymer for applications where sun exposure is an issue.
Introduced at the International Engineered Fabrics Conference and Expo (IDEA07), the materials are currently being used in US vehicles and are now available commercially.
The Polymer Group is one of the world's leading producers of nonwovens. It operates 21 manufacturing and converting facilities throughout the world.
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