Fluoroelastomer with different properties and its application to automotive interiors
Aya Sakai
Keisuke Shiomi
Daikin Industries, Ltd.,
1. Changing needs in the automotive market
2. Physical properties of fluoroelastomers for automotive interior materials
2-1. Durability and chemical resistance
The appearance and texture of fluoroelastomers are not likely to change even when used in various environments for long periods. They are also less likely to change their physical properties due to chemicals such as disinfectants and to experience a sudden break, discoloration, or stickiness caused by hydrolysis, which is a concern with rubber materials. Therefore, the excellent texture can be maintained for continued comfortable use.2-2. Low aromaticity
On the assumption of daily use, the difference in the aromaticity between fluoroelastomer and silicone rubber was tested to examine the resistance to odor spreading. The odor concentration of fluoroelastomer was more than ten times greater. Compared with silicone rubber, while the fluoroelastomer had almost no odor, the odor spread to the silicone rubber. The fluoroelastomer can solve the problem of odor spread, which is typical of rubber.2-3. Texture
Different textures can be developed without any additives by changing the surface texturing, such as a mirror surface or matte finish. It feels pleasant to the touch and can create a sense of luxury with a texture, unlike rubber. Moreover, the supple touch feeling continews without being affected by external impact.2-4. Antibacterial and antifungal compositions
With the increasing use of automotive by car sharing with many unspecified users, the market needs for antibacterial and antiviral properties in automotive interiors are expected to increase. It was proven that antibacterial and antifungal properties could be added to fluoroelastomers without compromising their workability and general physical properties of the rubber by compounding antibacterial and antifungal agents.2-5. Toning compositions
Toning technology allows the development of various colors, from clear and vivid colors to chic colors. Various colors are visually appealing, and the development of diverse goods becomes possible.Fig.1 Color compounds
3. Applications to automotive interior materials
- Therefore, we produced a prototype of a steering wheel cover to provide a concrete image of the application to automotive interiors and to understand the properties of fluoroelastomer more intuitively by directly holding it.
Fig.2 Prototype of a colored fluoroelastomer steering wheel cover (the orange and red parts are made of fluoroelastomers)