Plastic compounds and resins supplier A. Schulman (Akron, Ohio / USA; www.aschulman.com) and automotive parts manufacturer Inteva Products (Troy, Michigan / USA; www.intevaproducts.com) have developed a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) for use in interior automotive applications. Inteva said the slush cast “Invision” SLX material combines thermoplastic strength with elastomeric resilience, allowing a reduction in cost and weight.

Advantages include cost savings of up to 50% compared with non-PVC alternatives, a weight reduction of 20-45% and reductions in odour, cabin fogging, colour fading and surface inconsistencies, the company added. The material can be used in interior systems and components such as instrument panels, consoles, glove boxes, door panels, interior trim and air bag doors. Inteva said the companies developed the material in response to rising demand for non-PVC slush-mouldable materials, caused by shortfalls in PVC performance.