• New: Optimised scratch-resistance adds on to excellent existing material properties
• The material of choice for demanding exterior automotive applications

INEOS Styrolution, the global leader in styrenics, announces the introduction of an enhanced AMSAN copolymer grade that is expected to become specifically attractive for automotive exterior applications. The new material is an enhanced version of the company’s Luran^® High-Heat grade HH-120 with optimised scratch-resistance properties.

INEOS Styrolution’s High-Heat materials are known for their excellent material properties including dimensional stability, rigidity, stiffness, heat resistance, UV resistance and colour fastness. Existing automotive applications based on Luran HH include roof spoiler winglets, pillar trims and many more applications. Based on OEM requirements related to improved scratch resistance, Luran HH-120 has been optimised to meet these needs.

“Research at INEOS Styrolution has led to an innovative new solution with balanced properties allowing easy processability and providing excellent material properties,” comments Dr. Tobias Schulz, R&D Specialist, Global R&D. “Luran High-Heat is a transparent base material allowing for an excellent colour depth including a rich deep-black or ‘piano-black’,” he adds.

Early tests and initial customer feedback confirm that the new Luran High-Heat is considerably better in terms of scratch-resistance than other materials used for a similar purpose. In fact, it shows best-in-class results for uncoated and unpainted applications. Dr. Schulz concludes: “We have done extensive testing with the new Luran HH-120. The results for the new material are significantly better than what we saw for the previous material. Gloss reduction as a result of daily routine is brought to a minimum. Automotive exteriors will benefit from the enhanced material in their daily wear and tear.”

Christophe Ginss, Sales Director Automotive EMEA with global coordination role at INEOS Styrolution, is excited about the new material: “I expect the new Luran High-Heat solution to become the material of choice for many exterior applications in new automotive designs. The enhanced scratch-resistance fills a gap making Luran HH the perfect fit for demanding applications with a high gloss deep black surface.”