Italian compounder Sirmax has unveiled an innovative solution for automotive interiors, introducing a recycled plastic door panel material that effectively addresses concerns related to mechanical properties, unwanted odors, and the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on interior finishes. The company's breakthrough involves a polypropylene (PP) compound from the Green Isofil family, incorporating a 5% talc additive and featuring 30% recycled material sourced from post-consumer waste (PCR).

This sustainable PP compound, as part of the Green Isofil family, mimics the mechanical and aesthetic characteristics of virgin plastic. Sirmax asserts that the improved material not only retains impact- and scratch-resistant properties but also resolves issues like stickiness and unwanted odors commonly associated with interior finishes. Most notably, the innovative compound contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing its carbon footprint by up to 21% when compared to 100% virgin raw material.

The application of this recycled PP compound extends beyond door panels, offering a versatile solution for other automotive components such as the glove compartment and center consoles. Sirmax emphasizes that the product presents a valid alternative for manufacturers seeking sustainable materials in the evolving automotive landscape. Car manufacturers are asking questions about redesigning cars that can be sustainable even after they are used, and we are accompanying them on this transformative journey," added Pavin.

Pavin further highlighted the company's commitment to the automotive sector and its notable achievements, attributing success to the research and development (R&D) efforts at Sirmax's centers. The company's expansion strategy includes plans for a third plant in India by 2026, alongside recent investments in the United States and upgrades to the Palwal plant in India, a joint venture with the Tipco Group.

In the United States, Sirmax has dedicated an entire production line to its flame-retardant PP-based compound at the Anderson, IN facility. Simultaneously, in India, Autotech-Sirmax India is set to enhance capacity by adding four extrusion lines, resulting in a 15,000 tonnes/year capacity boost and doubling capacity at the site. With the construction of the third plant in southern India by 2026, the overall capacity on the subcontinent is anticipated to reach 82,000 tonnes/year.

Sirmax is positioning itself to meet evolving market demands through its Naturally Inspired material range, which represents the company's latest foray into product innovation. This range employs special finishes and embossing techniques to simulate natural effects like stone, marble, granite, fabric, wood, or a starry sky using polymers. The percentage of post-consumer and bio-based materials within the formulation can be adjusted based on customer specifications and CO2 reduction goals throughout the product's lifecycle.

With the Naturally Inspired line, Sirmax seeks to revolutionize automotive components by offering a fresh interpretation through re-creating tactile and visual experiences akin to natural materials. Beyond aesthetic benefits, this approach also supports the reduction of fabric upholstery, leading to savings in assembly time and costs, aligning with Sirmax's commitment to sustainability and innovation in the automotive industry.