Application of Flame-Retardant Modified Plastics (PP, PA, ABS, PC) in Automotive Lightweighting

Analysis of the core reasons why PP has become the "king of Usage" among automotive modified plastics: Clarify the scope of metal alternative components for PA in automotive lightweighting; Elaborate on the core interior application scenarios and modification directions of ABS; This paper explains the characteristic application fields of PC and the key points of flame retardant applications related to new energy vehicles, providing clear guidance for understanding the core value of the four core modified plastics in automotive lightweighting.

Q: Why has PP become the "king of usage" among automotive modified plastics?

The core reason lies in its excellent comprehensive characteristics, which are highly consistent with the demand for automotive lightweighting. The density of PP is only 0.89 to 0.91g/cm³, making it one of the lightest automotive plastics. It also has a significant cost advantage. There are over 60 types of components used in a single vehicle, and the usage of core components such as bumpers and instrument panels accounts for more than 60% of the total vehicle usage. At the same time, it has huge potential for modification. Through modification, performance leaps can be achieved. For instance, long glass fiber reinforced PP (LGFPP) can reduce the weight of components by 20% to 50%, and is widely used in front-end modules and seat brackets. Microfoamed PP can reduce the weight by 10% to 20%, and the foamed PP materials of Saudi Basic Industries can also reduce carbon emissions by more than 15%.

Q: Which metal parts does PA mainly replace in automotive lightweighting?

A: PA, with its outstanding mechanical properties and heat resistance, is an ideal substitute for load-bearing components such as engine perimeters and chassis. For instance, PA66 reinforced with 20% to 40% glass fiber can have a bending strength of up to 310MPa and is often used in heat-resistant parts such as engine hoods and intake pipes. Flame-retardant modified PA6 is the core material for power battery casings and can meet strict safety requirements. In addition, modified PA11 and PA12 are widely used in key pipelines such as fuel pipes and brake oil pipes due to their good oil resistance.

Q: What are the core application scenarios of ABS in automotive lightweighting?

ABS is the preferred material for interior and exterior parts due to its excellent surface coating properties and durability. It is often used in instrument panel skins, door inner panel decorative parts, center console panels, etc. However, it has poor flame retardancy and insufficient high-temperature resistance. In practical applications, it is mostly modified in two ways: one is flame retardant modification. Brominated flame retardants remain the mainstream due to their high efficiency, but halogen-free is the development direction. Second, it is blended with PC to form PC/ABS alloy, enhancing heat resistance and impact resistance.

Q: What are the distinctive applications of PCS in automobiles?

A: The light transmittance of PC is 88% to 90%, and its impact strength is 250 times that of ordinary glass. It is the core material for transparent components such as car lamp covers, sunroofs, and side Windows. Meanwhile, after PC is reinforced with glass fiber or modified for flame retardancy, it can also be used in functional parts such as bumpers, heating plates, and defrosters. In new energy vehicles, flame-retardant PC is an important material for battery pack covers. Phosphorus-based flame retardants such as BDP have become the mainstream choice due to their good compatibility and high thermal stability.