Long fiber PP compounds boast low VOC emissions

Auto OEMs are mandating lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)in their vehicle interiors and the initial development drive from thermoplastic suppliers centered on low emission grades of polyacetal (POM) given this resin's propensity for emitting high levels of formaldehyde. Low emission polyurethane foam systems have also started to emerge. Now, polypropylene (PP) grades for auto applications are also available in low VOC emission versions.

The new Very Long Fiber reinforced Polypropylene (PP VLF) portfolio from RTP Company (Winona, MN) includes a range of low emission products. International legislation and automotive OEMs have identified the need to reduce odor, fogging, and total VOCs to improve air quality and the safety of vehicle interiors and these PP VLF products satisfy OEMs mandates according to RTP.

The PP VLF compounds are designed for structural use and provide exceptional strength, stiffness, and dimensional accuracy, with reinforcement levels of 20-50 weight%. They have been tested and authenticated by approved outside laboratories according to German Automotive Industry (VDA) test methods for odor, fogging, and total VOC emissions. Results from VDA test methods show that PP VLF products from RTP Company meet or exceed the OEM requirements in all three categories (VD 270, VD 277, VDA 278).

Low emission requirements started in Europe and are quickly being adopted by OEMs around the world. "The global trend is to reduce Volatile Organic Compounds to meet increasingly tough OEM environmental standards," explains Dave Pahl, RTP Company Automotive Market Manager. "Our challenge was to sort through the complexity of varying OEM specifications, test methods, and classifications to develop VLF compounds that meet the industry's toughest emission requirements. RTP Company is now positioned to support our customers worldwide with low emission PP VLF solutions."

VLF compounds target use in automotive interior applications such as instrument panels, door module carriers, overhead and center consoles, seating, load floors, pedal boxes, spare tire covers and storage bins. "Some OEMs require only that 'open air' applications meet VOC standards, while others include covered or enclosed applications, as well," explains Pahl. "Regardless of the OEM definitions, classifications or requirements, Tier suppliers can leverage RTP's global footprint and application development expertise for low emission, structural interior solutions."

RTP Company has strategically positioned its VLF processing capability in the Americas, Europe and Asia, near key automotive centers to support customers locally with automotive-specified compounds and short lead times.