Autoneum’s Propylat technology reduces both interior and exterior noise in vehicles.

Originally developed by Borgers Automotive which was acquired by Autoneum in April 2023, the versatile technology is characterised by a flexible material composition of natural and synthetic fibres with a high recycled content and contributes to significant waste reduction thanks to complete vertical integration in its production. In addition, the fully recyclable technology variant Propylat PET is now part of the Autoneum Pure portfolio.

The ongoing electrification of mobility as well as increasingly strict regulatory requirements for vehicle performance in terms of sustainability and acoustics are presenting new challenges to car manufacturers worldwide. Propylat-based products not only contribute to reducing pass-by noise and improving driver comfort, but are also up to 50% lighter than equivalent plastic alternatives. This results in a lower vehicle weight and, consequently, to reduced fuel and energy consumption as well as lower CO2 emissions.

Propylat consists of a mixture of recycled synthetic and natural fibres, including cotton, jute, flax or hemp, that are consolidated using thermoplastic binding fibres without adding any further chemical binders. Thanks to the flexible fibre composition and the variable density and thickness of the porous material, the properties of a Propylat variant – with regards to acoustic performance for example –  can be tailored to individual customer requirements. This allows for a versatile application of the technology in a variety of interior and exterior components such as wheelhouse outer liners, trunk trim, underbody systems and carpets. Propylat-based wheelhouse outer liners significantly reduce rolling noise both inside and outside the vehicle while at the same time offering optimum protection against stone chipping and spray water.

The material always contains a high proportion of recycled fibres – up to 100% in some variants – and can be manufactured with zero waste. Moreover, Propylat PET, which consists of 100% PET, of which up to 70% is recycled fibres, is fully recyclable at the end of product life. Propylat PET will replace the current Mono-Liner technology going forward.

Propylat-based components are currently available in Europe, North America and China.

www.autoneum.com