LyondellBasell, Renault, and Antolin unveil innovative foamed material for Renault Rafale

LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB), Renault, and Antolin are excited to announce the integration of LYB's Hostacom TYC 2463F E2 foaming material ("Hostacom") into the interior of the new Renault Rafale. This advanced polypropylene (PP) compound represents a major advancement in creating interior parts with intricate designs, superior surface textures, scratch resistance, and low emissions. This successful collaboration showcases the deployment of advanced chemical foaming technology.

“This achievement in material innovation demonstrates our dedication to creating vehicles that excel in performance and sustainability,” says Alexandre Martin, LYB Business Development Manager for Transportation. “The development of Hostacom TYC 2463F E2 foaming material highlights our commitment to advancing material science and meeting the rigorous demands of our automotive industry partners.”

This Hostacom foaming material is produced using LYB’s advanced catalyst technology, which improves the rheology of the PP polymer matrix.

Key benefits of this Hostacom grade include:

• High flowability, an expanded processing window, and excellent melt strength ensure optimal cell structure in foamed parts.

• Substantial weight reduction achieved by utilizing LYB PP compounds with a chemical blowing agent in core back technology.

• The semi-ductile nature of the material expands its application across various interior trim parts, providing a versatile and sustainable solution.

Renault and Antolin, key players in this innovation, celebrate the successful result of years of dedicated effort and collaboration. "The partnership between Renault, LYB, and Antolin has produced a groundbreaking solution," says Nathalie Etienne-Morange, door-panel component leader at Renault. "Incorporating this foamed material in the new Renault Rafale marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of innovation and sustainability in automotive design."

"Antolin is proud to contribute to this transformative project that epitomizes the blend of innovation and environmental stewardship," says Frederic Papi, Plastic Parts Technical Director at Antolin. "Our partnership with LYB and Renault in pioneering chemical foaming technology for door panel applications highlights our shared dedication to sustainability and advancing automotive solutions."

The successful approval of this technology for serial production marks a major milestone after more than five years of dedicated collaboration between LYB, Renault, and Antolin. The launch of Hostacom foaming material ushers in a new era in automotive design, setting new standards for innovation, sustainability, and performance.

LyondellBasell, a global leader in the chemical industry, is dedicated to creating solutions for sustainable living. By leveraging advanced technology and targeted investments, the company is driving progress toward a circular and low-carbon economy. As a leading global producer of polymers and innovator in polyolefin technologies, LyondellBasell develops, manufactures, and markets high-quality products for diverse applications, including sustainable transportation, food safety, clean water, and quality healthcare.