US compounder and distributor PolyOne (Cleveland, Ohio; www.polyone.com) has introduced two formulations for automotive interior surfaces and instrument panels. “Geon” VBX 3577 vinyl powder has been developed for automotive interior surfaces, while VBX 3600 is for instrument panels with seamless airbags. The company said that both formulations can deliver cycle time reduction benefits, allowing processors to improve profitability while meeting low-temperature requirements for slush-moulded automotive interior parts.

PolyOne said that in comparison with existing materials, both solutions displayed a 15% reduction in cycle time in tests and decreased energy costs, resulting in higher production efficiency. The new materials are also claimed to provide up to 35% lower scrap rates by enhancing coating consistency, which reduces material bridging and part defects.

VBX 3577 is designed to improve production efficiency for all automotive interior surfaces that require -30°C temperature performance. VBX 3600 is formulated to meet OEM safety standards for instrument panels that require airbag deployment ratings below -36°C.