Polymers & phenolics increasingly found under the bonnet

An analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Strategic Analysis of the European Market for High Performance Polymers and Phenolics in Automotive and Aviation Applications, finds that significant advancements over the last decade in terms of improved heat, chemical and impact resistance, and enhanced aesthetics have cemented the market for HPP compounds in the under-the-bonnet automotive segment. Meanwhile, fire, smoke and toxicity resistant properties make HPP suitable for use in aviation applications.

With OEMs in the automotive and aviation industries continuously looking to lower the weight of their vehicles, polymer, composite and component manufacturers are working closely to develop HPP materials lighter than their metal equivalents.

However, glass and carbon fibre-reinforced materials too are gaining traction, eating into the share of HPP manufactures in Europe. In addition, HPPs such as PolyEther Ether Ketone (PEEK), PolyPhenylene Sulfide (PPS), PolyEthylene Imine (PEI) and phenolics compete with each other in a number of applications. High prices add to the challenge.

Over the next few years, the demand for customised solutions in the automotive and aviation industries will lead to partnerships among automotive OEMs and composite, component, resins and compound manufacturersin the European market.

“The operating temperature in the engine compartment is constantly on the rise owing to OEM initiatives to reduce engine size,” said Soundarya Shankar, Materials Senior Research Analyst, Frost & Sullivan. “The need for reinforced materials that can withstand high temperature accelerates the use of HPP in Europe. Manufacturers must relentlessly strive to convince automotive OEMs and component manufacturers of the long-term benefits of HPP compounds,” urged Shankar. “It is also critical for material suppliers to offer an optimum price-performance index in order to facilitate uptake in newer applications.”