Polyplastics tackles low-VOC demand in automotive with DURACON acetal grades

Japan-based Polyplastics is producing a wide range of polyoxymethylene (POM) resin grades with low-VOC emissions for the production of automotive interiors.

Its DURACON low-VOC acetal grades are specifically designed to meet the latest regulations governing the concentration of VOCs in automotive interiors. These materials reduce VOC emission at the molding site, as well as a reduction in mold deposits which cuts the frequency of mold maintenance.

Special technology is applied to reduce the quantity of residual formaldehyde within resin pellets through the use of optimal stabilizers and scavengers.

Polyplastics' low-VOC line includes DURACON M90-45LV – an improved weather-resistant grade. It exhibits a low quantity of released formaldehyde compared to competitive grades. Its improved weather resistance delays the deterioration caused by ultraviolet light and the corresponding degradation of physical properties.

Another low-VOC grade is NW-02LV, a high-sliding material which provides superior friction and abrasion characteristics and low-sliding noise. Other low-VOC resins include a glass-reinforced grade (GH-25LV), a low-gloss offering (LU-02LV), and an impact-resistant grade (TF-10LV). DURACON TR-20LV is a high-rigidity/low-warpage grade while DURACON M270LV is a high-flow material.

DURACON low-VOC grades are also targeted at non-automotive applications such as office automation equipment. The downsizing of PCs, photocopying machines, and projectors has led to rising internal temperatures, creating potential for the release of larger quantities of VOCs.