White paper

Material developments
in car interior and engine
compartment
RECTICEL FLEXIBLE FOAMS
1
Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................................................3

The interior and engine compartment – growing differentiators..........................................................................4

Market overview...............................................................................................................................................5

Requirements and regulations...........................................................................................................................7

Noise, Vibration and Harshness......................................................................................................................11

Typical materials and new developments.........................................................................................................13

The role of flexible foams................................................................................................................................15

Conclusions....................................................................................................................................................17

About Recticel................................................................................................................................................18
Introduction
Passenger cars and light commercial vehicles have seen rapid evolution over the last few decades with an
increasing focus on comfort, convenience, safety and the quality of the driver and passenger experience. Tactile
pleasure and aesthetics, which were once the preserve of luxury vehicles, are now a basic requirement for every
model. Superior silencing materials are required to enhance comfort in the car interior, which contributes to general
well-being and safer, more relaxed driving. Meanwhile, higher engine temperatures and pressures place extra
demands on silencing, sealing and filtering components. Globalisation has brought with it higher standards and
more extensive legislation. Today’s vehicle manufacturers need eco-friendly production and assembly methods as
well as lightweight materials that reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

This white paper summarises developments in the market before looking at how materials are evolving, how they
help to solve specific problems and what the future holds for this exciting and fast-growing sector.

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The interior and engine compartment –
growing differentiators for carmakers
In the past, the field of automotive design was largely dominated by the car exterior. The sleek, gleaming contours
of the bodywork were the main differentiator for manufacturers seeking to impress. Today, new technologies
have changed the market radically, transforming the possibilities for vehicle interiors and engine compartments.
A revolution is already under way, producing vehicles that are packed with new features, technologies and
materials that could not have been imagined even a few years ago.

As a result, automotive interiors are receiving increasing attention as a differentiator. The days are gone when
visual appearance and a quality feel and finish were only important in luxury and premium models. Today, these
factors influence the perception of quality in all passenger vehicles, and they play a significant role in the buying
decision for drivers of economy level cars as well.

A ‘premium’ feeling is a recurring theme in descriptions of new releases. The Honda Civic, launched in January
2017, promises a sophisticated, premium ambience, “augmented by cabin trim finished in high-quality
materials, including a one-piece soft-touch instrument panel with moulded stitching and premium seat fabrics.”
As well as this, the new Civic features “class-leading interior quietness and refinement” through advanced NVH
management. This is delivered by thorough sound sealing and insulation, triple-layer seals on the doors to reduce
the ingress of wind and other exterior noise and sound insulation materials in the engine bay, floor undercovers
and rear wheel housings. Further soundproofing is incorporated in the engine bay bulkhead, dashboard inner
and outer panels and interior cabin carpet.1

In a similar vein, a review of the new Renault Scenic, which debuted at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, observes
that the design focus has been carried into the car’s interior: “The whole cabin is significantly more premium
feeling than the outgoing car, with soft touch plastics and well finished trim giving the Scenic clout to compete
with more expensive models.”

The role of the interior as a differentiator is set to grow further. Looking to the future, the rise of autonomous driving
will radically change how customers spend time in the cabin, creating a new set of demands. Manufacturers and
suppliers who are agile and innovative enough to capitalise on rapid changes in the market have a significant
opportunity to set themselves apart from their competitors.

1
Honda press release, January 2017

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Automotive interiors market overview
The global automotive industry is highly cyclical and extremely competitive in terms of volumes and prices.
The interiors sector is growing steadily: a report published in June 2016 projects that the size of the market will
reach $236.2 billion by 2022, registering a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period 2016-2022.2 The report
adds that automotive interiors play a crucial role in influencing buying decisions and that the market is being
driven by rising income levels, a growing automotive industry and increasing consumer demand for innovative
and technologically advanced systems that enhance the driving experience.

Asia-Pacific is a particular growth market for interiors. Over a third of the world’s population lives in China and
India, and demand for cars in these countries is at a record high, supported by developing economies, rising
disposable incomes and government initiatives to stimulate growth. Production costs are also relatively low in
the region due to easy availability of raw materials and low labour and transportation expenses. Fast growth is
projected in the region as a result. Steady growth is also projected in other regions, driven by customer demands
in terms of competitiveness, technology, flexibility and quality.

Automotive Interior Market Size, by Region, 2014-2019 ($Million)

2019:

2014:

Asia - Oceania Europe North America RoW Source: MarketsandMarkets Analysis3

The automotive interiors market is being transformed by an increased interest in cabin comfort and convenience.
As in many sectors today, consumers increasingly expect an individually optimised experience. Efforts to meet
their expectations are resulting in a host of new trends, from basic customisation to innovations like lighted
headliners and smart wellness seats that detect the driver’s stress or drowsiness and take measures to
relieve them.

Like every industry, the automotive interiors sector is heavily influenced by environmental considerations.
Improving vehicle efficiency remains a priority for manufacturers and suppliers as they strive to meet government
regulations and customer demands. Overall weight reduction is fundamental to this goal and, accordingly,
manufacturers are focusing on materials that offer low weight along with high durability and comfort.
2
Automotive Interiors Market by Vehicle (Passenger, LCV, HCV) and Component (Infotainment, Instrument cluster, Telematics, Flooring, Door Panel,
Automotive Seat, Interior Lighting) - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2015 – 2022, published June 2016, alliedmarketresearch.com
3
Automotive Interior Components/Accessories Market by Product (Cockpit Module, Seat, Door Panels, Infotainment System, Lighting & Headliner), Application 5
(Passenger Car, LCV & HCV) and by Region - Global Forecasts & Analysis to 2019, published February 2015, marketsandmarkets.com
As well as lighter weight for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions, there is a demand for sustainable and
recyclable materials. However, it is notable that, while consumers are interested in more eco-friendly materials
and manufacturing processes, they do not expect to compromise on fuel efficiency or on the feeling of quality,
durability, luxury or safety.

The interiors market is also affected by government regulations relating to materials used for manufacturing
(see ‘Requirements and Regulations’ below). Most major manufacturers make vehicles that ship around the
globe and it is in their advantage to produce standardised vehicles that do not require modification for sale
in other countries or regions. As a result, many cars are designed to meet multiple sets of regulatory requirements.
This can lead to unnecessary expense and affect the design process, as criteria vary in different parts of
the world.

Suppliers are facing the challenge of developing new, sustainable materials that offer higher performance and
tailored design possibilities without any negative impact on quality or cost. New technologies are offering almost
limitless possibilities to improve on car interior design and functionality. In a fast-growing market, the key is to
make the most of new opportunities while remaining cost-effective and continuing to reduce energy consumption
during manufacturing.

Automotive interior market drivers

1. Automotive industry growth (especially in Asia-Pacific)
2. Demand for enhanced driving experience
3. Vehicle efficiency (weight reduction)
4. Government regulations
5. Technological advances

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Requirements and regulations

“Interiors is such a complicated industry field. It isn’t just a case of creating a shape that looks
good. To achieve a great interior you have to work with the suppliers to make sure the quality
and the finish of the materials is there…”
Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, Mercedes-Benz

Source: automotive-interiors-expo.com

To meet the demands of the rapidly evolving market described above, vehicle manufacturers need the highest
quality materials throughout their supply chain. As well as their own quality criteria, they must meet strict standards
which are applied legally or by the industry itself in a range of fields. These include national (BS, ASTM, DIN,
JASO) and international (ISO, EN, SAE) standards.

A car interior is a complex environment in which many different conditions and prerequisites come into play.
Before a car goes to market, every component and material is analysed and tested to make sure it meets
stringent industry standards and legal requirements. Chemical analysis is carried out to control the use of
undesirable constituents that might have an impact on human health or the environment. Materials are tested
for resistance to flames, abrasion and scratches, wear and impact. Strength and flexing tests are performed to
determine the endurance and crack resistance of materials like leather and PU, which can perform differently in
varying humidity and temperatures. Upholstery and trim materials need to be cleanable and resistant to soiling,
staining and colour change. Light fastness is particularly important in components that may be exposed to direct
sunlight for prolonged periods.

Resistance to fogging is another important consideration. Some materials used in automotive interiors can
contain semi-volatile constituents that could evaporate within the vehicle’s cabin and form droplets or a clear
film on cooler surfaces like the windscreen and windows. A build-up of these deposits can affect driver visibility.
Then there are environmental conditions to consider. Components and adhesives used must be able to withstand
extreme temperature changes and perform in combination with other elements without bending, warping or
changing their dimensions.

When it comes to government regulations, two factors are particularly important and present specific challenges
for automotive interior manufacturers: indoor air quality and fire safety.

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Vehicle Indoor Air Quality (VIAQ)
Vehicle Indoor Air Quality is directly related to the chemical composition of materials. The “new car” smell that
is traditionally perceived as part of the appeal of a new purchase is now known to be the result of chemicals
emitted from the many materials that make up a car’s cabin space. Most of the interior components, including
the dashboard, panels and seat and floor coverings, are made of plastics and other materials that contain volatile
organic compounds known as VOCs. Exposure to these chemicals in the confined space of a vehicle can harm
human health.

A 2015 white paper published by global safety science company UL lists the most common symptoms resulting
from VOC exposure as eye, nose and throat irritation, allergic skin reactions, headaches, dizziness and fatigue,
adding that there is also a potential connection with asthma, particularly among children. In addition, a number of
VOCs commonly found in vehicles have been classified as “carcinogenic”, “probably carcinogenic” or “possibly
carcinogenic” to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health
Organization (WHO).4

“Chemical emissions testing and reporting is now an essential component procurement

requirement for most major automobile manufacturers, even in cases where national regulations
or standards do not apply.”

Source: UL

VOCs are one of the main contributors to VIAQ-related issues. These chemicals are found in many automotive
interior components and finishes, which comprise a wide variety of materials including hard plastics, elastomers,
rubber, leather, fabrics, fibres and resins. They are also found in adhesives and in materials and compounds
used to prepare, clean and maintain surfaces. Under the right conditions, VOCs can vaporise into the air.
Concentrations vary depending on conditions such as the age of the vehicle, exterior factors like heat, humidity
and exhaust from other vehicles, and passenger behaviours like smoking in the car. According to UL, “Numerous
studies have found the measurable presence of anywhere from 30 to more than 250 separate VOCs in a single
vehicle, in total concentrations as high as 14,000 μg/m3.” The report adds that, while concentrations may decline
as a vehicle ages, they can also quickly rebound when chemical vaporisation is stimulated by high temperatures.

One of the main challenges for manufacturers when it comes to VOC management is the lack of standardisation
in testing and legal requirements. Some countries have implemented regulations or voluntary standards, but there
are significant differences in the methods used for sample preparation and analysis, the duration of test cycles
and the ways in which VOC concentrations are measured. Manufacturers tend to adopt the requirements for
the region in which they are headquartered, but for those who want to access multiple markets, the differences
pose a significant problem. The complexity of requirements and lack of standardisation can result in unnecessary
duplicate testing, delays in product acceptance and lost opportunities.
4
“Vehicle Interior Air Quality: Addressing Chemical Exposure in Automobiles”, UL, 2015.

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There have been recent efforts to address this issue by harmonising requirements for whole vehicle assessments
of VOC concentrations in new cars. ISO 12219-1, which was published in 2012, specifies VOC measurement
sampling for passenger vehicles during three different modes of vehicle operation: ambient, parking and driving.
During ambient and driving modes, VOCs and carbonyl compounds are measured. In parking mode, only
formaldehyde is measured. ISO 12219-1 also describes the sampling and analysis procedure to be used.
Unlike many national standards, it does not specify permitted levels for individual VOCs, but it aims to minimise
inconsistencies between individual national standards and thus make the process of whole vehicle testing easier.

Although regulations and standards aiming to reduce VOC concentrations and improve overall VIAQ are emerging,
current protocols depend on the materials and components to be tested and can vary greatly from manufacturer
to manufacturer. Yet, as public health awareness increases, it is likely that vehicle interiors with low VOCs and
better VIAQ will become more important as an influence on purchasing decisions.

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Fire Safety
Every vehicle contains several components that will burn if exposed to a large enough ignition source. A number
of safety standards have been introduced to help reduce occupant fatalities and injuries caused by vehicle fires,
especially those resulting from discarded cigarettes and matches in the vehicle interior. These include FMVSS
302, BS AU 169a and ISO 3795. FMVSS 302 standards are mandatory for materials used in the interior of all
vehicles sold in the USA. BS and ISO standards are generally specified for other markets, although they are not
always a legal requirement. These standards are applied to HGV, commercial, agricultural and forestry vehicles
as well as passenger cars. They cover all materials used in the seating compartment, including seat cushions,
seat backs, seat belts, headliners, convertible tops, armrests, headrests, trim panels, shelves, carpets, sun
visors, airbags, curtains and mattress covers.

Materials used in car interiors need to have a level of burn resistance to allow passengers to escape in the event
of a fire. International standards specify a common method to test materials individually or as composites up to
a thickness of 13 mm. For general applications, the maximum permitted burn rate is 100 mm per minute, although
some manufacturers stipulate slower burn rates. The tests only consider flammability and do not address levels
of noxious fumes generated.

A study conducted by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology identified a number of strategies
that are capable of providing 15-20 minutes of survivable conditions in the passenger compartment in a post-
crash fire.5 These include use of materials with improved fire performance characteristics under the hood and
in the passenger compartment to reduce the rate of flame spread and to delay fire penetration from the engine
compartment to the passenger compartment.

5
“Improving Survivability in Motor Vehicle Fires”, http://fire.nist.gov/bfrlpubs/fire07/PDF/f07065.pdf

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Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)
Transportation noise has been identified as the second most deadly environmental pollutant in Europe and is an
important driver of vehicle development. Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH), as a field of vehicle technology,
deals with two different areas of study. The first is interior NVH, which focuses on improving the interior vibro-
acoustic environment for drivers and passengers and protecting professional drivers against occupational health
issues. The second is exterior NVH, which aims to control and reduce environmental noise emissions from
vehicles and, simultaneously, ensure sufficient acoustic noticeability of electric vehicles to protect road users.

The sound inside a vehicle is primarily composed of road noise, wind noise and powertrain noise. As vehicles
become lighter and more powerful, powertrain noise is a key concern, and airborne noise is only part of the
picture. With quieter vehicles and lower interior sound pressure levels, customers have become more sensitive to
acoustical comfort. Vibrations have grown in importance and some noise sources have become more perceptible.
This process, which is illustrated below, presents engineers with an ongoing challenge.

Optimization
Complaints about tire noise Complaints about
tire noise wind noise

Optimization Optimization
engine noise Adaptability of Human Hearing wind noise

Complaints about Complaints about

engine noise noise of auxiliaries
Optimization noise
of auxiliaries

Adaptability of human hearing – permanent new challenges for acoustic engineers

With new vehicle technologies, including alternative propulsion systems developed to reduce CO2 emissions, the
goalposts are moving once again. Electrification of vehicles and ongoing weight reduction are creating radically
new NVH profiles which need to be tackled from the ground up rather than relying on the approaches developed
for combustion engine-powered vehicles and conventional layouts. A 2016 study by the European Automotive
Research Partners Association (EARPA) identifies the challenges relating to NVH management for an electric
vehicle.6 HVAC, road and wind noise are not masked and are thus more apparent, as are transmission and
battery-related noise. The electric motor, inverter and switch mode converter emit high-frequency tones, while
whining noise from the gearbox also becomes more obvious. As interior sound quality becomes becomes more
important, there are additional concerns for pedestrian safety. The quietness of electric vehicles means that
warning sound solutions need to be implemented.
6
Source: “Noise, Vibration and Harshness Research Needs, Priorities & Challenges for Road Transport in Horizon 2020”,
EARPA Position Paper published March 2016.
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Keeping noise and vibration levels under the current thresholds will be a constant preoccupation for engineers
as they integrate the latest innovations. EARPA has created a dedicated task force, bringing together European
experts in the field of automotive NVH to work on “innovations in the fields of noise and vibration analysis
techniques, measurement approaches, simulation methodologies, subjective assessment, infrastructure
interaction, material science, product design, etc.” This team of experts stresses the importance of further R&D
on a number of elements, notably material technologies to minimise the impact of noise and vibration from the
vehicle and its components. Their report points to the next generation of smart materials solutions as well as new
metamaterial concepts that hold the potential for high NVH performance combined with low component weight.
New opportunities are also arising from advances in mechatronics and control engineering, which enable actively
controlled materials, and from new physical insights and supporting CAD/CAE tools.

“Decades of experience in designing brand-specific sound, based on noise and vibrations

generated by combustion engines in conventional vehicle layouts cannot be simply transferred
to vehicles including new breakthrough material technologies and/or novel powertrains.”

EARPA (European Automotive Research Partners Association)

Sound and vibration are not just unwanted elements that must be eliminated due to their negative impact
on comfort. In today’s global market, NVH characteristics have a vital positive influence on the customer’s
perception of vehicle quality. They can be used to create a unique vibro-acoustic environment that enhances the
drive and contributes to higher quality. As ecology, economy and health take on more importance in engineering
for future mobility, noise reduction is also an important market driver. NVH management in a changing automotive
environment presents manufacturers with many challenges, but also a significant opportunity to stand out from
their competitors. Advances in materials technology have a huge role to play in helping them to reach their goals.

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Typical materials and new developments
As we have seen, the requirements for car interiors are wide-ranging and constantly evolving. OEMs, designers
and suppliers are continually evaluating the drawbacks and advantages of traditional materials, as well as the
potential for improvement and innovation. The materials currently used in car interiors fall into three main types:
leather, textiles and polymers (including foams and plastics). Besides providing aesthetic and comfort attributes,
these materials contribute to acoustic and vibration management, durability, safety and weight optimisation.

In the past, leather was primarily associated with premium models, while textiles and plastics were more
common in economy models. However, the gap between leather and polymers is closing as the aesthetic
and tactile properties of chemically manufactured materials continue to improve. Plastic is the most prevalent
material in modern interiors because of the ease and precision with which it can be moulded into various shapes.

Many manufacturers are also moving towards artificial leather for ethical, practical and financial reasons and,
over the last decade, synthetic materials have become a viable alternative for premium vehicles. As well as the
materials used in upholstery and the most visible interior components, there are also many foams and acoustic
barriers used in auxiliary interior parts like HVAC systems, cables and wiring.

An analysis presented by Robert Eller Associates in 2016 identifies several inter-related factors influencing
materials innovation:7
• Consumer needs and desires, which are also influenced by government legislation and standards
• Technical feasibility, which depends on availability of materials, manufacturing processes, compliance with
safety standards and harmony between the various interior components
• Commercial viability and launch timing, which have a direct impact on profitability
• Design criteria

Several drivers of materials innovation are identified. These include new sensing and control modes (such as
voice, light, motion and touch), which help to save weight and contribute to a luxury look and feel. Process
improvement and new materials/process combinations resulting from 3D composite manufacturing will continue
to play an important role. New developments are stimulated by changes in electrical and electronic architecture.
Acoustic improvement will also remain an important driver of materials development.

7
“Innovation in Automotive Interior Materials and Processes”, May 2016, Robert Eller Associates LLC

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 Interior soft trim processes/materials: the action today
Injection Skin processes

Conv. 2-shot Overmould Back Slush mould Vac form foils Coated
injection injection (cast) fabrics

Soft touch - Sebs - Coated fabric - Sebs Back Back

paint - TPV - Foils (TPE-S) injection injecion (b)
- TPU - Uncoated fabrics - TPU (b) Thermoform or low
- TPU blends pressure
- PVC moulding Hard wrap (a)
- TPO or VAC form

- TPO
- PVC
- TPU alloy sheet
Note:
(a) Polyurethane dispersion (PUD) coated fabrics gaining share, improved TPO grades and SEBS will challenge
(b) Growth process

Source: Robert Eller Associates LLC

The Robert Eller study goes on to discuss a number of recent developments and future directions in materials
and processes used in car interior design and production. There is a renewed interest in magnesium as a material
for seat frames and instrument panels in Europe. Although more expensive than steel and aluminium, magnesium
offers low density and weight and can be easily moulded in the desired thickness, thus saving raw materials
costs. Carbon, in multiple forms, is the basis for many innovative applications, including graphene which can
be used for smart touch functionalities and smart displays. There is also a growing markets for thermoplastic
elastomers (TPEs) used in aftermarket floor mats, as an environment-friendly alternative to PVC or rubber. TPE is
non-slip, resistant to scratches and abrasion and can be easily coloured and customised, although high capital
investment is still required for moulding equipment.

3D printing is another innovation that holds considerable potential for car interiors. As well as structural components,
this technology offers possibilities for floor and roof modules and mechatronics. It can be combined with carbon
fibre or other fibre/fabric reinforcements to produce parts with high strength and temperature resistance and
light weight. It also enables the creation of complex shapes with little or no waste. Connected/autonomous
car developments are also driving innovation in plastics. As well as the vibro-acoustic considerations examined
above, versatile materials are needed for printed circuits, RF shielding, housings, wires, cables, seals and flexible
connectors.

The Robert Eller presentation identifies a number of future directions in regard to materials. These include natural
fibre reinforcement, natural oil polyols (NOPs) from renewable resources, which can be used to create PU foam
and copolyester TPEs, and cellulosic nano reinforcements. It also predicts an increasing role for graphenes,
carbon fibres, smart textiles and thin film sensors. The major challenges to current materials are identified as
foams, TPEs, new generation fillers and reinforcements and, finally, improved conductive and “smart” materials.

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The role of flexible foams
Foams are among the most exciting materials in today’s automotive interiors industry. They can be endlessly
tailored using a number of processing technologies to create specific aesthetic and tactile effects for seating covers
and accessories, headliners and door panels. They can be used to create silencing and sealing components that
reduce cabin noise and enhance comfort. They can also be produced to meet specific demands with regard to
VOC emissions and flammability.

Recticel Flexible Foams produces a wide range of solutions for the automotive interior and engine
compartment. Some provide dust, air and liquid sealing around doors, between the engine and cockpit and
throughout HVAC systems. Others absorb and isolate noise and vibration and protect vital cables and wiring.
Specific products for firewall pass through applications combine acoustic and sealing benefits. The portfolio
also includes comforting and sensing solutions for seating covers and accessories, headliners and door panels,
developed to provide tactile pleasure and visual enjoyment. All of these materials meet the automotive market’s
strictest technical requirements.

Various technologies are used to give Recticel foams particular performance to enhance the driving and
ownership experience.

CU
TP
TI ON AR
TS
N A
M I (2D
LA &
3D
PET felt PU )

PP fibre EPDM
Fibrous Cellular
material Acoustic materials
absorption
Acoustic isolation
(3D)

Air sealing
ENC

PET fibre PE

Sensing
G

A
LDIN

PSU

Cotton fibre Liquid sealing PVC

L
MOU

Films
ATION

Adhesive Non-
tapes wovens

Auxiliary
materials

THERMOCOMPRESSION

15
The list of available Recticel Flexible Foam parts gives an idea of just how many applications and possibilities
foams have in the car interior and engine compartment, ensuring that they will continue to play an essential part
in the future of automotive development.

Interior component Foam parts

Firewall gasket
HVAC seals
HVAC acoustic pad
HVAC system
Cooling pipe absorber
HVAC air duct seals
HVAC duct silencer

Windscreen seal
Dashboard Dashboard air duct seals
Dashboard silencing pads

Cables & wires Wiring protection system

Seat covers
Seating Armrests
Headrests

Headliner Headliner cover

Door panel cover

Locator seals
Doors
Mirror gusset seal
Various air/water seals

Interior trim components

Self-adhesive non-woven labels
Interior trim
Loudspeaker seal
Carpet underlay

Dashboard air duct seals with low VOC emissions Flame laminable polyether PU foams for headliner giving a smooth,
attractive finish

Acoustic and water sealing firewall gaskets used in HVAC systems Comforting and sensing PU foams for seating covers and accessories

16
Conclusions
In today’s hugely competitive automotive industry, materials are vital in helping OEMs to create the effects they
want and set themselves apart from the competition. Interior materials in particular are essential in creating
a unique experience for drivers and passengers.

Weight reduction, comfort, safety and compliance with industry standards and legislation are ongoing
requirements. At the same time, new technologies are driving a revolution in how interior spaces can be designed
and enjoyed. Innovations ranging from smart coatings and 3D printing to mechatronics, full connectivity, sensing
and voice activation are creating fresh demands and possibilities for the future. As combustion engines gradually
give way to alternatives like electric and hybrid propulsion systems, the ways in which noise and vibration are
handled will need to adapt. Autonomous vehicles will change the way people spend time in their cars, placing
more emphasis on comfort, connectivity and storage than on the experience of driving.

For materials suppliers, the challenge is to assist manufacturers, designers and installers by giving them the
freedom and resources they need while helping them to comply with increasing regulation and meet their financial
and environmental targets.

17
About Recticel Flexible Foams
Recticel contributes to daily comfort with foam filling for seats, mattresses and slat bases of top brands; acoustic,
sealing and thermal insulation material for the building, transport and industrial markets; and an extensive range
of other industrial and domestic products.

Through its Flexible Foams Business, Recticel is offering value-added solutions that meet specific silencing,
sealing, filtering, carrying, protecting, supporting and comforting needs. Our Flexible Foams business is active
worldwide, with foam production and converting plants close to our customers.

Find out more at www.recticelflexiblefoams.com

Recticel Flexible Foams

Damstraat 2, Industriezone 7
B-9230 Wetteren
Belgium
Tel: +32 9 368 92 11
Email: flexiblefoams@recticel.com

©
Recticel, 06/2017
Care has been taken to ensure that the content of this white paper is as accurate as possible. However, Recticel does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability,
timeliness or appropriateness for any purpose of the information.

The texts and visuals (images, photos, graphs, layout, etc.) are Recticel’s intellectual property. It is not allowed to use, reproduce, display, make public or adapt
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