Since the first automobile was made, back in 1882, manufacturers have been striving to continue to improve and outdo themselves and their competition. Because of this desire for continuous improvement, automobile parts and materials have long been a driving force for change in many different industries with the latest being the plastics industry.
According to a new report by Global Market Insights, the global automotive plastics market will surpass $50 billion in annual sales by 2024. This surge in sales has been pushed by manufacturers looking for new ways to reduce the weight of vehicles to save energy. They have discovered that one way to do this is by using plastics instead of heavier metals. Plastics are being used in increasing numbers in fuel systems, electrical components, dashboards, upholstery, and body panels. They are not only being used to reduce the weight of the vehicles but to also increase comfort and visual appeal.
One of the major raw materials being used by automobile manufacturers is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC-based demand is expected to see its own surge surpassing $1.9 billion soon. This material is being used mainly in coatings, sealants, panels, seating, dashboards, and more. For the automobile industry to use PVC, they can add multiple plasticizers to make it flexible and work in their designs. One of the common plasticizers being used is 911P due to its sustainability under high temperature. Another very common plasticizer being used is Diisononyl Phthalate, DINP, for the undercoating of automobiles to prevent corrosion. Please inquire today if you have any questions about 911P, DINP, or any other plasticizers used in the automobile industry.