It will convert Dow’s Affinity resin, among other materials, for rotomoulding

A Spanish supplier to the automotive industry is in the final stages of a project to produce rotomoulded elastomeric components. Cromoduro, based in the Basque region of northwestern Spain, is converting Dow’s new Affinity polyolefin plastomer (POP) and other materials into micropellets, which are suitable for processing by rotational moulding (PRW.com 11 May). The project has been driven by a demand for alternatives to PVC.

A number of additives are compounded into the micropellets: heat stabilisers give the materials higher temperature resistance, while a 2% loading of lubricant makes it easier to remove final parts from the mould.

Cromoduro is concentrating on armrests for door panels, which will be given a leather-like appearance. It expects to have a prototype part ready by the end of the year, at which time it will approach car manufacturers. The two-year project also involves Gaiker, a local research centre.