Mitsubishi Motors Corp. announced on February 14, 2006 that it has jointly developed a car interior material made of plant-derived plastic consisting of polybutylene succinate (PBS) combined with bamboo fibers with the Aichi Industrial Technology Institute. When compared with conventional petroleum-derived plastic, polypropylene (PP), PBS proved to be capable of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 50 percent over the lifecycle of the automobile interior.

Since 2004, the company has focused on recyclable resources, such as plant-based resins and fibers from fast-growing plants, as substitutes for the petroleum-based resins and wood hardboard used in automotive interiors.

PBS, the main component of the new material, is a plant-based resin primarily composed of succinic acid and 1,4-butanediol. Succinic acid is produced by fermentation of sugar extracted from sugarcane or corn. The PBS is then combined with bamboo fibers to provide rigidity. Bamboo grows rapidly, typically within a few years, and is thus a potentially sustainable resource, particularly when compared with traditional timber. In addition, it is widely available in areas such as Japan, China, and Southeast Asia.

The company has named its plant-based resin technology "Green Plastic" and will continue the development and practical application of this new material.

http://media.mitsubishi-motors.com/pressrelease/e/corporate/detail1420.html

Posted: 2006/06/02 06:47:33 AM
Japanese version

TAG Eco-product/Business , Global warming , Manufacturing industry