SABIC Innovative Plastics has partnered with IAV to create thermoplastic solutions for use in electric and hybrid vehicle powertrain components.
The collaboration will mainly focus on innovative methods to enhance the performance and efficiency of vehicles. The strategy will also help reduce the weight of battery packs and provide protection at high voltage.
Gregory A. Adams, VP of SABIC Innovative Plastics’s automotive division, stated that the partnership with IAV will generate innovative options for automakers to develop advanced powertrains as well as powertrain components.
SABIC Innovative Plastics offers various thermoplastics that include Valox polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and Noryl polyphenylene oxide (PPO) resins. These materials are resistant to temperature and chemicals and have superior flame-retardant and dimensional stability. Hence, they are good substitutes for steel used in battery housings and frames. Ultem polyetherimide (PEI) thermoplastics provide greater heat resistance to lithium polymer and lithium ion batteries.
Similarly, hybrid-electric vehicles require protection from radio frequency interference (RFI) and electromagnetic interference (EMI). SABIC Innovative Plastics’ LNP Faradex resins offer excellent EMI and RFI protection. The Lexan polycarbonate compound from the company provides better insulation, optimizes air conditioning in vehicles and reduces heat load quantity that is transported to a vehicle’s interior during hot weather.