Sabic introducing two new LNP Lubricomp compounds at the recent Automotive Interiors Expo 2019 in Novi, MI, developed to help mitigate buzz, squeak, and rattle (BSR) noises in vehicle cabins. These injection moldable compounds, a polycarbonate/acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (PC/ABS) grade, and a polycarbonate/acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (PC/ASA) grade, provide a low-gloss finish to meet general preferences for automotive interior decorative parts. Compared to silicone lubricants, which have the potential to leach out and interfere with paint adhesion, and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) lubricants, which can limit paint choices, the new products feature a proprietary internal lubrication technology and deliver excellent paintability.

“We’re steadily expanding our LNP product portfolio, which reflects 70 years of technology innovations and achievements, with new products that solve the latest industry challenges and address current and emerging industry trends,” said Ed Williams, senior product manager, LNP. “Our two new internally lubricated grades for auto interiors combine reduced BSR noise with improved paintability, helping to solve two aesthetic issues with one leading-edge solution. Sabic is committed to developing high-value, innovative compounds that help automotive customers stay ahead of evolving industry demands, design trends and consumer preferences.” 

The two new LNP Lubricomp compounds incorporate specialized lubricant technology that mitigates the friction-induced slip-stick phenomenon, which causes squeaking noises. Sabic’s new grades allow for better paintability than silicone – which can migrate to the part surface and interfere with paint adhesion – and reduce restrictions on paint selection that may occur with PTFE.

The new LNP grades can also simplify production by avoiding the need for secondary BSR mitigation like tape-based felt spacers and external lubricants. Further, they can be processed using existing tooling. Both grades offer good low-temperature impact performance and are supplied in black with a low-gloss finish.