Polyurethane materials for lightweight yet rigid designs are the focal point of Bayer MaterialScience's exhibit at Stand P 14 at the JEC composites fair from March 27 - 29 in
The demand for such materials is growing primarily in the mobility and transport sector in order to meet increasingly stringent climate protection requirements and conserve resources.
Furthermore, polyurethane systems from Bayer MaterialScience also have the potential to reduce costs in the composite materials industry. Thanks to automated application with short cycle and assembly times, they are helping to increase the pace of production. In addition to the established spray technologies, new potential uses are opening up in such areas as resin transfer molding (RTM), pultrusion and the filament winding process.
One current example is the engine compartment lining of a convertible currently on the market. This lining is made of aluminum and subjected to extraordinary loads. As part of a feasibility study, Bayer MaterialScience demonstrated that the covering can be manufactured without modification of the design from a glass fiber-reinforced polyurethane system such as Multitec Short Fiber, reducing the weight of the design by more than 20 percent compared with the metal version. This weight saving is achieved without compromising the good mechanical properties, such as stone impact resistance.
The use of lighter-weight components is also becoming increasingly important for rail vehicles in order to reduce fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and, last but not least, costs. In collaboration with a consortium of businesses, universities and research institutions, Bayer MaterialScience has developed a solution for diesel engine enclosures. Because the large component is located between the passenger compartment and the track, it is subjected to extraordinary loads. The Baypreg polyurethane spray system protects the engine against stone impact and the environment against potential oil leaks. It also satisfies the flame retardance and fire protection standards for rail vehicles.