Mazda in conjunction with Nishikawa Rubber Co., Hiroshima and Kinki Universities, has developed a new high-strength, heat resistant bioplastic for use in automotive interior parts.
The new bioplastic is made from natural materials and is carbon neutral because of the reduced amounts of fossil fuels used to make it and the consequent lowered amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. It has three times the shock impact resistance, 25% higher heat resistance when compared to contemporary bioplastics used for items such as electrical appliances.
Compared to PP, the new bioplastic has comparatively higher rigidity, resulting in thinner molds and fewer materials used. It is made with a fermentation process that includes natural materials such as fermented starches and sugars, which when compared with the process to make polypropylene, reduces energy use by 30%.
13-May-06 
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