Automotive supplier Denso (Kariya / Japan; www.denso.com) has announced it is using bio-polycarbonate (PC) made from starch and urethane resin extracted from castor oil in some of its products. The company has been conducting research and development on plant-derived plastic materials, which are based on plant molecular structures.

According to Denso, the starch-derived bio-PCs have higher surface hardness, better optical characteristics and superior hydrolytic stability than conventional petroleum-derived PCs. The company's bio-PC is being used to make plastic bezels for Toyota Motor Corporation’s (Toyota / Japan; www.toyota-global.com) automotive navigation systems.

Denso also developed a heat-resistant urethane resin based on the molecular structure of castor oil for use as a protector for connectors in automotive exhaust gas sensors, which measure the concentration of specific gases present in vehicle exhaust. These sensors must have high heat resistance and the resins used in sensor control units are traditionally expensive silicone-type resins. The company says its urethane resin costs less than silicone resins and can withstand temperatures up to 150 °C.

With more than 200 subsidiaries and affiliates in 38 countries, Denso employs more than 150,000 people. Its consolidated global sales for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2016 totalled US 40.2 bn (EUR 37.7 bn). Last fiscal year, Denso spent 8.8% of its sales on research and development.