Polyolefins supplier Borealis ((Vienna, Austria) says it is supplying automaker PSA Group with a special plastic material for OEM’s new Citroën C4 Cactus model. Tiger stripe-free Daplen EH227AE thermoplastic olefin (TPO) compound for exterior parts is used in addition to other materials for more than 33 different applications in the new-generation model.

Interior parts are free of tiger strikes thanks to deployment of a special TPO grade.Enabling freedom in design and achieving good surface aesthetics are reportedly decisive factors in the success of new vehicle models. By working closely with the PSA Group and its major Tier 1 suppliers, Borealis was able to find ideal material solutions for the aesthetic and mechanical performance-related challenges posed by this striking new model. PSA and its Tiers required the highest possible quality in molded parts in accordance with their own stringent state-of-the-art requirements for new models.

One central concern when it comes to surface aesthetics is the elimination of flow marks, also known as tiger stripes. When compared to all other available materials, Borealis’ new generation of Daplen tiger stripe-free grades was determined by PSA to be the best choice for numerous exterior applications, offering more design freedom and better quality than other materials. Daplen EH227AE is being used in rocker panels, whilst additional grades are used in other Citroën C4 Cactus applications, including interior trims, the central console and dashboard.

“When compared to other solutions currently available on the market, our Daplen tiger stripe-free grades offered tangible competitive and aesthetic advantages,” explains Harald Hammer, Borealis Vice President Engineering Applications. “We are committed to developing superior, cutting-edge material solutions to meet the needs of our partners and customers in the automotive industry.”

The company had earlier announced details of hybrid grades on offer, one of which was being employed by VW.