Color/additive masterbatch system deployed in compressible exterior panels

Additive technologies from PolyOne Corporation (Cleveland, OH) have enabled Citroën to launch the groundbreaking Airbump exterior protective panels on the new C4 Cactus passenger car.

Air-filled black side panels compress when impacted by shopping carts, car doors.

The air-filled Airbump panels, manufactured from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), can compress up to 20 mm, and bounce back to shape in an instant. Citroën notes that this will reduce the cost of vehicle ownership by reducing damage due to everyday bumps and scratches, such as those from shopping carts or the doors of other vehicles.

Working closely with the Citroën design team, PolyOne developed a specialty OnColor Smartbatch color and additive system that allows the distinctive panels to meet stringent UV stability, appearance and durability requirements.

"We are thrilled at the opportunity to be part of this effort by bringing enabling technologies to the Citroën team as they pioneer new directions in automotive design," said Christoph Palm, general manager, Color & Additives EMEA & India for PolyOne.

Added Palm, "By working with Citroën and its Tier I suppliers, we were able to develop an advanced solution that provides the panels with uniform, attractive, and durable color despite exposure to sunlight, heat, and detergents. TPU materials are rarely selected for a vehicle's exterior, but by working together, we were able to overcome several material-related challenges. This type of collaboration exemplifies the way we help our customers innovate."