Background

Automotive plastic parts are often painted to obtain aesthetic properties that are comparable to painted metal parts. However, when plastic parts are painted it becomes very difficult to recycle the material and the parts are therefore incinerated after use. Colouring plastic parts with pigments (masterbatch) enables recycling of the material, but the long-term properties of colour and gloss are seldom as good as when paint is used.

Project objective

Compare the colour and gloss of painted plastic parts with the colour and gloss of plastic parts manufactured with masterbatches. Evaluate the long-term properties of plastic parts manufactured with masterbatches. Calculate the environmental benefits of using masterbatch instead of painting.

Method

The project will start with determination of requirements for painted automotive plastic parts. Then a theoretical study of masterbatches will be carried out. Based on results from the theoretical study, test objects (master plaques) will be manufactured and compared with painted plastic parts. Parameters to be evaluated are e.g. colour, gloss and scratch resistance. Finally, a life cycle assessment (LCA) will be performed to evaluate the benefits of using masterbatch instead of painting.

The thesis project is recommended for one or two students with background in either organic chemistry, material science, mechanics or technical design.

The project will be carried out in collaboration with Euroform in Tranås. Volvo Construction Equipment will also take active part in the project, supplying information about requirements and evaluating test objects.

Available resources

Injection moulding machines, moulds, spectrophotometer, gloss meter, microscopes, etc. The thesis project will be a part of SuPRA (Sustainable Polymer Research Arena), and resources at Husqvarna, Polymertekniska Institutet (PTI), Scania and Thule will therefore be available.

Contact

If you are interested in this project and would like to know more, contact Anders Sjögren (anders@ad-manus.se) or Elin Olander (elin.olander@design.lth.se).

Application

Apply by December 31, 2024. The project will be carried out in January to June 2025.