New reSound™ NF reinforced solutions from PolyOne reduce weight sustainably

PolyOne today announced development of reSound™ NF reinforced materials, based on an eco-conscious, natural fiber-filled technology. Developed for advanced applications in transportation, these materials contain a minimum of 30% bio-based content, and are in current evaluations at several key automotive OEMs.

“Global automotive manufacturers seek lightweight materials to help them meet tough new regulations on CO₂ emissions as well as their own goals for sustainability. Based on results from our collaboration with these customers, reSound NF reinforced solutions will enable the transition to a lighter weight material that provides the high performance required for challenging applications,” said Craig Nikrant, president, Global Specialty Engineered Materials at PolyOne.

Compared to other natural fiber reinforced solutions, reSound NF materials will offer mechanical property improvements of more than 20% for tensile and flexural properties, 10°C to 20°C higher heat deflection temperature, and an increase of more than 50% in impact strength. Testing at Fraunhofer ICT Institute in Pfinztal, Germany has shown that a 40% filled reSound™ NF formulation has equivalent performance to a 30% filled short glass fiber reinforced alternative, at a 7-8% lower density.

These natural fiber-filled solutions can be processed on standard machinery and tooling at low injection molding temperatures and short cycle times, and will complement the advanced long and short fiber solutions in PolyOne’s current portfolio. They feature densities 5-10% lower than comparable glass fiber formulations to reduce weight.

New reSound NF solutions are based on polypropylene chemistry. PolyOne has identified more than 15 potential applications, including under-the-hood components, lighting systems, and semi-structural applications, and is actively collaborating on these and additional opportunities with customers.

Demonstration parts made with reSound NF reinforced materials will be on display at both the VDI Plastics in Automotive Engineering conference and trade show in Mannheim, Germany and the NPE 2015 exhibition in Orlando, Florida.

About PolyOne

PolyOne Corporation, with 2014 revenues of $3.8 billion, is a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions. The company is dedicated to serving customers in diverse industries around the globe, by creating value through collaboration, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Guided by its Core Values, Sustainability Promise and No Surprises PledgeSM, PolyOne is committed to its customers, employees, communities and shareholders through ethical, sustainable and fiscally responsible principles.