Talc-less, styrenic elastomer-modified PP is lightweight, highly colorable

A polypropylene (PP) compound whose modification is brought about solely through use of a styrenic elastomer is around 10% lighter than standard talc-filled PP compounds.

Developed by Suzuki Motor Corporation (Hamamatsu, Japan), the compound dubbed Suzuki Super Polypropylene (SSPP) is also highly colorable on account of the absence of talc, and has been used commercially for the first time in the non-painted front bumper undergarnish of the Suzuki Escudo which was launched in Japan on 11 July, 2012.

Talc-free PP compounds boasts enhanced colorability; employed in front bumper undergarnish.

Traditionally, rigidity and impact resistance are imparted to PP through the addition of a mineral filler, typically talc, and a rubber such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber or an elastomer such as a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). The drawbacks of talc usage are that its higher density of 2.7-2.8 raises overall part weight and that it dulls color in compounds due to lower base compound transparency. SSPP, however, retains comparable flexural rigidity while boasting lighter weight and excellent colorability.

The front bumper under garnish of the Escudo realizes high brightness silver metallic color without painting due to the high colorability of SSPP. Because it has no paint layer, in case of scratching such as by stone chips, it is difficult to distinguish scratches according to Suzuki. SSPP is a new patent-pending technology for which Suzuki plans to expand usage of in interior parts and exterior parts such as bumpers in the future. -[email protected]