PolyOne (Cleveland, OH) has introduced new compounds for the auto sector: Geon VBX 3577 vinyl powder for automotive interior surfaces; and Geon VBX 3600 series for instrument panels with seamless airbags. Both formulations can reportedly deliver cycle time reduction benefits, allowing processors to improve profitability while meeting tough low-temperature OEM performance requirements for slush-molded automotive interior parts.

During trial testing versus existing materials, both solutions displayed a 15% reduction in cycle time and decreased energy costs, resulting in higher production efficiency. The new materials also reportedly provide up to 35% lower scrap rates by enhancing coating consistency, which reduces material bridging and part defects.

"These formulations were specifically developed to help automotive tier suppliers improve operating efficiencies in a challenging business environment," said James Petrie, marketing director, PolyOne Color and Additives. "These new materials can improve our customers' profitability by boosting production rates and lowering total system costs."

VBX 3577 is designed to provide production efficiency improvements for all automotive interior surfaces that require -30°C temperature performance.  VBX 3600 is formulated to meet strict OEM safety standards for instrument panels that require airbag deployment ratings below -36°C. Both new solutions are available now to customers around the world.