Cross-section through a Goodyear tyre revealing the metal structure inside the composite rubber matrix. The two main synthetic rubbers in car tyres are polybutadiene rubber (BR) and styrene butadiene rubber (SBR). They are typically used in combination with around 20% natural rubber (NR). Tyres used in more demanding applications, such as trucks and aircraft, contain a higher proportion of natural rubber. A whole host of other materials and additives are used, including steel cable, reinforcing textile and fillers (predominately carbon black and silica for conductivity and enhanced resistance to tearing and abrasion) to give the desired performance.

Wastea vegan leather made with bio-based polyurethane resin (bio-PUR) and waste tea leaves. A durable and resilient material, it is suitable for applications in fashion, apparel, interiors, furniture, upholstery and automotive.

A truck storage tray, produced from polypropylene (PP) by KraussMaffei using MuCell foaming technology. The foam reduces the density of the part, allowing it to become thicker and stiffer without adding weight. Foaming usually leaves surface marks as a result of the flow of the gas during moulding. It is most visible in black parts. The polymer is modified with additives to reduce the effect and surface texture added to eliminate the visual impact altogether. In this case, a textured in-mould label (IML) has been added to the centre (silver), completely concealing the black plastic beneath.

Modern Synthesis are developing nanocellulose-based biomaterials, such as leather-like fabrics. Bacteria grow the raw material, nanocellulose, as a natural byproduct of fermentation. Modern Synthesis then creates a customised nanocellulose biofilm, which they combine with a natural textile to create a versatile range of non-woven materials.

A demonstrator by Kurz to show off their wood-effect polyester foil hot stamped onto acrylic sheet, which is backlit with integrated tough sensor. A black mask is printed on the reverse side of the semi-transparent foil, which helps control the lighting effect. This kind of technology is used in appliances as well as automotive applications. In car interior applications, where head impact is a risk, polycarbonate (PC) is preferred over acrylic (PMMA).
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