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DIGITAL LIBRARY: CAMX 2019 | ANAHEIM, CA | SEPTEMBER 23-26

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Advances in Weatherable Sheet Molding Compound Technology

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Title: Advances in Weatherable Sheet Molding Compound Technology

Authors: Joseph R. Amlung, Jonathan M. McKay, and Thomas J. Skelskey

DOI: 10.33599/nasampe/c.19.0708

Abstract: With the introduction of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline composite truck bed, the automotive industry recognized the potential for molded-in color weather resistant sheet molding compounds (SMC) for exterior structural applications. Molded-in color systems are particularly attractive over their painted counterparts because of their ability to provide a mar-resistant finish, reduce the environmental impacts of solvent-borne coatings, and eliminate painting costs (including the capital expenses of installing and maintaining a paint system). However, new auto and truck exterior applications provide unique challenges for the industry, due to the need to meet increasing property and performance requirements while providing acceptable weathering resistance. To meet these challenges, a highly adaptable resin system has been developed for weatherable SMC formulations.

Herein, multiple studies of this technology are presented and discussed. Mechanical tensile testing results are presented that show substantial increases in strength while maintaining a similar specific gravity at and below the current generation formulation. In addition to improvements in mechanical properties, the technology has improved weathering resistance and can be formulated with lower residual styrene VOCs in the molded part.

References: 1. Brosius, Dale. “Inside-the-box thinking pays off for Honda”. Composites World. 1 April 2005. 8 April 2019. https://www.compositesworld.com/articles/inside-the-box-thinking-pays-off-for-honda 2. Malnati, Peggy. “SMC + D-LFT: A hybrid box for the Gen 2 Ridgeline”. Composites World. 18 Sept. 2017. 8 April 2019. https://www.compositesworld.com/articles/smc-d-lft-a-hybrid-box-for-the-gen-2-ridgeline- 3. Denton, Douglas. “Reduction of Styrene Evolution from Thermoset Polyester Resin Composites”. Troy, Michigan. September 2007. Society of Plastic Engineers. Paper.

Conference: CAMX 2019

Publication Date: 2019/09/23

SKU: TP19-0708

Pages: 10

Price: $20.00

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