Dow introduces polyolefin elastomers for automotive TPOs

ERJ staff report (DS)

Midland, Michigan -- Dow Chemical Co. has introduced a new grade of polyolefin elastomer for thermoplastic polyolefins (TPOs) used for automotive interior and exterior components, the company said in a 3 May announcement.

When compounded with polypropylene, the new material, which is called Engage XLT, delivers a combination of benefits not previously possible with other TPO impact modifiers, according to the statement.

Dow said Engage XLT provides a variety of benefits to compounders, moulders, vehicle manufacturers and consumers as it can “take advantage of improved impact efficiency that enables lower elastomer loading in the TPO while still delivering excellent impact performance.”

The chemical company added that lower elastomer loading results in higher TPO stiffness and melt flow which contributes towards improved fuel economy. Dow said that computer simulations have shown a reduction of up to ten percent in the total weight of a part made with Engage XLT.

The material was created as part of a series of solutions designed to address the needs of the automotive industry during an ongoing consumer study by Dow.

“Engage XLT is a result of Dow's commitment to creating products and solutions to help meet the needs of the automotive industry, from the compounders to the OEMs to the consumers,” said Dave Mitchell, marketing manager at Dow Elastomers.

The product is delivered in free-flowing pellet form that can be easily handled in large-scale continuous compounding operations.

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Press release from Dow Chemical