Mazda Developing Bioplastics for Bumpers and Dashboards

Published June 16, 2008

HIROSHIMA, Japan — Mazda Motor Corp. has enlisted the help of Hiroshima University to develop bio-plastic for use in vehicles by 2013.

The "Mazda Bioplastic Project" will explore the creation of non-food based bioplastics derived from cellulosic biomass from inedible vegetation, such as plant waste or wood shavings. Previous research has led the company to create a 100 percent plant-based car seat fabric and a high heat-resistant bioplastic, both of which are used in its Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid scheduled for commercial leasing in fiscal 2008.

“Development of a non-food-based bioplastic made from sustainable plant resources has great potential in the fight against global warming, and can help allay global food supply concerns,” said Seita Kanai, the company’s director and senior executive of research and development.

The partnership will attempt to create a production process for a versatile polypropylene that is strong, durable and heat resistant for use in instrument panels and bumpers. The groups will first convert the biomass to ethanol and examine several combinations of ethylene and propylene.

Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology also will participate in the project.

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Mazda Developing Bioplastics for Bumpers and Dashboards

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