Hutchinson develops 'recycled-content' elastomer seals for European automotive major

Paris - Hutchinson Group has developed new automotive window seals using high recycled-content elastomers, to be used in two new vehicles set to launch in 2026.

The French group was approached by an unnamed 'major European automotive manufacturer' to produce a new generation of seals using at least 30% biobased, biosourced or recycled materials.

Furthermore, the seals were required to deliver "the same performance, durability, and robustness.... and have no other impact on the manufacture of the vehicle's windows and doors."

In response, Hutchinson said it created two new thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) grades: revea TPE 428, containing 37% sustainable content, and revea TPE 426, containing 29%.

The materials are used across the glass-run header, and the inner and outer waist belt seals, said Hutchinson in a recent statement.

Hutchinson said it achieved a 25% reduction in carbon emissions with revea TPE 428 and 16% with TPE 426 compared to traditional alternatives.

Three years after the launch of the project, the French parts maker said it is now producing the seals on an industrial scale for the European market.

The group is also considering the launch of the product at its facility in Brazil for supply to customers in the Americas.

The revea range incorporates at least 25% recycled or bio-based raw materials, is claimed to offer the same standards for durability, aesthetics and performance as Hutchinson's traditional materials.