Introducing Hexpol’s Dryflex Circular TPE – Sustainable Solutions for Automotive Interiors

Hexpol TPE expands its sustainable range with new Dryflex Circular TPE grades, now available from the U.S. office in Sandusky, Ohio. These grades have undergone rigorous odor‑emission testing for key automotive interior components—including inlay mats, cup holders, sealing lips, and HVAC parts.

Introduced in 2019, Dryflex Circular TPEs were engineered to accelerate the automotive industry's transition away from finite, fossil‑based virgin polymers. Each grade blends post‑consumer (PCR) and post‑industrial (PIR) recyclates, and is designed for closed‑loop recycling at end‑of‑life. In automotive interiors, odor and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions are critical; OEMs demand materials that remain odor‑free even at elevated temperatures up to 80 °C (176 °F).

In a case study, a 65 Shore A Dryflex Circular TPE designed for inlay mats—containing 20 % recyclate—recorded VOC emissions of just 60 µg g⁻¹ and FOG emissions of 594 µg g⁻¹. Accredited laboratory testing confirmed negligible odor, achieving a VDA 270 grade 2.0 (B3). The material meets all mechanical specifications for automotive use and is fully colorable. It is presently undergoing certification with a major German automaker.

Recyclates are reclaimed from post‑industrial waste streams—specifically, injection‑molding sprues and extrusion edge trims—chosen for their superior consistency and purity. To minimize transportation and energy footprints, all recyclates are sourced within Europe. Production occurs at Hexpol TPE’s European facilities, powered entirely by renewable electricity.

Dr.-Ing. Thomas Köpppl, Group Product Manager, stated: "The latest Dryflex Circular TPE innovations enable high‑performance interior applications. Combined with our exterior circular grades and biobased TPEs, we help automotive suppliers and OEMs meet their goals for greater recycled and renewable material use."