ExxonMobil has introduced new Santoprene integrated thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) system solutions which have the potential to extend the frontiers of performance and recyclability while optimising costs for glass run channel (GRC) weatherseals.
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ExxonMobil introduces Santoprene TPV integrated system solutions
The system solutions are enabled by two new TPV grades which, when used together, are designed to replace EPDM rubber.
Santoprene R² TPV includes post-consumer recycled (PCR) material and Santoprene High Resilience (HR) TPV offers elastic recovery performance comparable to EPDM, which can be difficult to recycle. For other mechanical properties, both grades deliver a similar performance to EPDM.
Santoprene R² TPV can help improve its lifecycle impact compared to regular Santoprene TPV. Santoprene TPV scrap generated during weatherseal manufacture can be melted and remoulded, reducing the amount of waste. Components made with Santoprene TPV can potentially be recovered and recycled, further contributing to the customer’s circular economy model.
Dan Moore, Vice President Specialty Elastomers and Butyl, ExxonMobil, said: “Initiatives like the EU Green Deal and CHINA VI are driving the automotive value chain to constantly consider how new sustainability objectives can be achieved. We are proud to build on our history of innovative solutions for the automotive value chain - working with Santoprene TPV, sustainability can now be instilled throughout the entire lifecycle of your vehicle.”
Santoprene HR TPV provides enhanced resilience, elastic recovery, and UV resistance for the lips and skins of the GRC. Frame-under-glass GRC, which are popular in Europe and becoming increasingly so in Asia Pacific, are typically made with a metal frame and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber. Now, frame-under-glass GRC can be made with Santoprene TPV replacing EPDM. Due to its performance properties, Santoprene HR TPV is a viable replacement for EPDM rubber currently used for semi-dynamic weatherseal applications, plus technical and commercial tests are in progress for use in dynamic weatherseals.