ExxonMobil has introduced new Santoprene integrated thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) system solutions which have the potential to extend the frontiers of performance and recyclability while optimizing costs for glass run channel (GRC) weatherseals. 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, made with PCR material, can help improve its life cycle impact compared to regular Santoprene TPV, while offering an optimized balance of performance and cost-effectiveness for the foot element of the GRC.

With Santoprene TPV integrated system solutions for GRC, the automotive industry now has a viable alternative to EPDM for semi-dynamic and dynamic weatherseals. (Photo: Getty Images)

Santoprene TPV scrap generated during weatherseal manufacture can be melted and remolded, reducing the amount of waste. And, when a vehicle reaches its end-of-life, components made with Santoprene TPV can potentially be recovered and recycled, further contributing to the customer’s circular economy model.

“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 the vehicle,” said Dan Moore, Vice President Specialty Elastomers and Butyl, ExxonMobil.

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.

“The improved performance properties of Santoprene HR TPV, including resilience and elastic recovery, unleash the potential use of TPV as an EPDM alternative for more demanding dynamic applications,” commented Leslie Chan, Global SE&B Market Development Manager at ExxonMobil.

“In addition to the recycling potential, the system solutions support a reduction in weight for all types of vehicles by replacing metal reinforcement with PP and design flexibility,” noted Jessica Vasquez, Global SE&B Product Technology Manager.

“Working with OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, commercial tests are proving very successful, confirming that Santoprene HR TPV meets OEM specifications for highly demanding semi-dynamic weatherseal applications in a range of vehicles from traditional ICEs to NEVs,” mentioned Stephen Chan, Global SE Auto Market Development Manager.