Essex Furukawa Magnet Wire, Manager New Product Development MagForceX Innovation Center
- Present — 5 years 7 months
Indiana, United States
I lead a group of scientists & engineers with a mission to develop novel & disruptive technologies/materials to support our current business initiatives developing & executing innovation strategies across the global organization to facilitate scientific excellence. Developed and utilized state-of-the-art tools including molecular engineering methodologies, adjacency strategies, and open innovation to leverage scientific programs to develop and support novel products and manufacturing processes. Supervised strategic publication of relevant research, developed and managed extensive networks of global experts, and implemented collaborative programs with internal & external experts to drive transformational innovation across our global, multi-billion dollar organization.
Superior Essex, Manager New Product Development
- 1 year 1 month
United States
Led a team of engineers & scientists & developed products & processes for electrical, electronic & electric vehicles, polymer synthesis, formulations & process scale-up. Captured & processed IP opportunities to protect technology & capture competitive advantage.
American Dental Association, Director / Assistant Director Materials / Medical Devices / Oral Care Products
- 15 years 5 months
Chicago, Illinois, United States
Assisted the Council on Scientific Affairs in administering the ADA Seal of Acceptance Program and disseminating scientific information to the public and profession on dental products, polymers, adhesives, and related FDA regulatory issues. Dentists and consumers have long recognized the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance as an important symbol of a dental product's safety and effectiveness. For more than 125 years, the ADA has sought to promote the safety and effectiveness of dental products. The ADA Seal of Acceptance program began in 1930. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan gave the Association a certificate of commendation for the outstanding self-regulatory efforts of its Seal program. Americans recognize the ADA Seal of Acceptance as the gold standard when it comes to evaluating the safety and efficacy of dental products. Evaluation of pharmaceutical ingredients. Natural ingredients and colorants.
ITW, Senior Product Development Polymer Chemist
2000-2001 — 1 Year
Glenview, IL, United States
Synthesized & compounded polymers, membranes, composites, security inks, adhesives, films for use in electronics, aerospace applications, encapsulants, automotive, food production, tubing, medical devices, US Department of Treasury, Corning, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, General Motors, Ford & Chrysler. Oversaw technical direction and support for global sales and expansion for new markets’-aligned engineering department to support manufacturing plants, including manufacturing automation to reduce costs. Analyzed competitive activity/threats.
Gas Technology Institute, Senior Polymer Scientist
1999-2000 — 1 Year
Des Plaines, IL
Worked on a Department of Energy-funded project that developed, evaluated, extruded & scaled up polymer membranes/films for Fuel Cells. [power generation]. Compounding, synthesis, purification, sulfonation, phosphonation, testing, evaluation & cost analysis of ABPBI [poly (2, benzimidazole)] high-temperature membranes.
IPI Medical/Smith's Medical, Director Polymer Research/Regulatory/Quality
1999-1999
Chicago, IL, United States
Compounded, Injection molded & extruded polymers & composites tubing for anesthesia breathing circuits and airway management systems, ventilator circuits, handheld nebulizers, oxygen masks, humidifier systems for inhalation, water for inhalation, and endotracheal tube holders. Managed and negotiated FDA compliance and approval of existing and new compounded polymers. Developed and maintained business relationships with internal and external business partners. Negotiated & resolved regulatory issues with FDA.
Ferris Mfg. Corp./3M, Director Research/Regulatory/Quality Control
1996-1999
Ridge, IL, United States
Compounded & developed diagnostic electrodes, and wound care polymers for medical applications.
Completed ISO 9000/CE mark certifications, FDA approval of polymers & medical devices.
Developed new manufacturing equipment for manufacturing diagnostic electrodes, polymers, composites, collagen, hydrocolloid, and alginate wound dressings for chronic/surgical wounds, tracheostomy, diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, and burns.
Optimized production control, logistics and quality, warranty, and information systems.
Launched partnerships with leading medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturers. Liaised with scientists in government, industry, and other associations.
Compounded high-performance retro-reflective polymers, fluoropolymers, composites & polymer blends designed for maximum day and night conspicuity and intended for use as road markers, traffic signs, and airport runway systems, resulting in safer driving conditions and aircraft landing.
Improved and developed polymer films for optical, micro-replication, and medical applications.
Designed a research program to provide competitive intelligence for strategic planning/marketing.
Identified and proposed specific advanced technology partnerships.
Polyplastex United/Schneller Inc./Boeing, Senior Polymer Scientist
1992-1994 — 2 years
Florida, United States
Increased value in product-line and finalized sale of Polyplastex United to Schneller Inc.
Compounded, developed, and formulated new polymers for aircraft interiors using proprietary, copolymers setting new standards in aircraft safety by reducing smoke and heat release per FAA requirements for Boeing, Airbus Industries, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Continental Airlines, British Airways, Air France, Swissair, Cathay Pacific, KLM, and Lufthansa.
Held technical authority for all facilities, establishing and enforcing design standards.
Co-ordinated technical information globally providing centralized data to plants, reducing overall project costs while increasing sales. Quality management system to conform to ISO 9000.
Breed Technologies/Siemens/CLP Inc., Senior Polymer Development Engineer
1985-1988
New York, NY, United States
Consolidated product line and completed sale of the company to Private Equity Investors.
Compounded & tested polymer composite materials, coatings for medical devices, spill containment systems for hazardous liquids, aerial fuel transfer systems & composites for Marines & Air Force. flexible polymer tanks for wine producers, NASCAR & formula one race cars.
SPE Positions Held
No Positions Held.
Education
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
MBA
-
NYU Tandon School of Engineering
BF Goodrich Post Doctorate Research Fellow
-
Synthesis, formulations, processing & molecular engineering of polymers.
Advisors: Professors Eli Pearce. Edward Weil. Herman F Mark
Industrial Advisor: Dr Marcello Hirschler Director Research BF Goodrich
Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd
Polymer Chemistry & Engineering, British Ministry of Defense Research Fellow
-
Activities and Societies: Member ACS, Chartered Chemist Royal Chemical Society, Squash Club
Thesis: Diffusion in Cellulosic Polymers.
British Ministry of Defense Research Fellow
Academic Advisors: Professors Geoffrey S.Park. David R. Williams OBE & P.J.F Griffiths OBE.
Industrial Advisor: Dr Thomas Lewis, Senior Scientist British Ministry of Defense
Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd
Bsc Magna Cum Laude, Polymer Chemistry & Technology
-
Activities and Societies: Cardiff Squash Club, Polymer Club, Royal Chemical Society, Institute of Materials
Research Project: “Polymeric Contractile Systems”.
Polymers that undergo changes in structures and properties in response to a change in pH.were investigated.
Tutor/Mentor: Professors John Lewis & P.J.F Griffiths OBE.
Industrial Mentor: Dr Richard Kronenthal Ethicon Corporation NJ
Summary
Director of American Dental Association, where I provided results & presentations to the American Dental Association’s Council of Scientific Affairs on product submissions, research agenda, genetics testing, and emerging science issues from 2001 to 2016 three times per year. Patents & Publications: Systems & Methods for Forming Magnet Wire Insulation US11,488,775B2. 2023 Systems & Methods for Forming Magnet Wire Insulation US 11,488,774B2. 2023 Magnet Wire with Corona-resistant Polyimide Insulation US 20220254542A1. 2022 Magnet Wire with Thermoplastic Insulation US 20220044839A1. 2022 Polymeric Insulating Films US20210102068A1. 2021 Magnet Wire with Flexible Corona resistant Insulation US20220262541A1. 2021 Edward D. Weil, Marcelo M. Hirschler, M M. Said, Navin Patel, Saleem Shakir,"Oxygen Index: Correlation to Other Fire Tests.” Fire and Materials Vol.16, 1992 John Wiley & Sons 1992. Edward D. Weil, Marcelo M. Hirschler, M M. Said, Navin Patel, Saleem Shakir,"What Does Oxygen Index Relate To? Seventh International Conference on Fire Safety San Francisco January 1992. P J Griffiths, P. Gandhi, G S. Park, M M. Said "Interferometric Studies of Interdiffusion in Polymer/Solvent Systems". Plastic and Rubber Institute's Second International Conference on Diffusion in Polymers University of Reading England Britain 1988. G S Park, M M. Said, Chapter 30 in "Cellulose and its Derivatives" Eds.Kennedy.J.F. Phillips. G.O. Wedlock. D.J. Williams.P.A., Ellis Harwood Ltd 1985. G S. Park, M M. Said, "Aspects of Diffusion in Nitrocellulose" Proc.Cellucon 84 Wrexham 1984.Ellis Harwood Ltd. G S. Park, M M. Said, "Diffusion and Relaxation Rates of Nitrocellulose". IUPAC Conference Athens Greece 1982.
Nischay Kodihalli
Shivaprakash, Ph.D. Mitsubishi Chemical America
General Purpose TPV (PP/EPDM) & Morphology Development
Structure Property Relationship in TPV
Importance of Dynamic Vulcanization Process (DV)
Influence of PP/EPDM ratio
Influence of Rubber/Plastic Combinations
Technological Compatibilization
Super TPV’s (Super oil and Heat Resistance)
About the Speaker
Dr. Nischay is an R&D Chemist at Mitsubishi Chemical America (MCA) responsible for the product
development function of TPV and TPE materials for automotive and building and construction applications.
Prior to joining MCA, he received his Ph.D. degree in Plastics Engineering from the University of
Massachusetts Lowell His areas of expertise include polymer formulation development, elastomer
technology, surface engineering for tailored wettability and advanced polymer processing.
The Global Auto-sector: Zero-emission transportation: Rapid Growth of EV
Why to care Sustainable PP/TPO-based light-weight Composites?
Biocarbon (BioC)? — A sustainable Filler in terms of Carbon Footprint (vs. Short Glass fibre, Talc &
Carbon Black)- Why and How?
Biocarbon — Basics & huge advantages in PP/TPO based biocomposites?
Biocarbon (BioC) based Polyolefin (PP & TPO) Composites — Few realities!
Auto-applications of BioC-filled PP & TPO (Substituting: Talc/Glass & Hybrid)
Highly Graphitic Biocarbon — Reduced Flammability — For EV parts uses!
About the Speaker
Prof. Amar Mohanty is a Distinguished Research Chair in Sustainable Biomaterials at the Ontario
Agriculture College and the Director of the Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre. He is a
Professor in both the Department of Plant Agriculture and School of Engineering at the University of
Guelph, Canada. Dr. Mohanty is the Editor-in-Chief in Sustainable Composites of Composites Part C
(ELSEVIER). He is one of the most cited researchers worldwide with more than 850 publications to his
credit, including 450 peer-reviewed journal papers, 71 patents (awarded/applied). His Google-Scholar
citations count is 49,169 with h-index 100 (March 25, 2023). He has received many awards, one recent one
being the prestigious Miroslaw Romanowski Medal for his significant scientific contributions to the
resolution of environmental problems from the Royal Society of Canada. He also received Andrew Chase
Forest Products Division Award from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and the
Lifetime Achievement Award from the BioEnvironmental Polymer Society (BEPS), USA. He is a fellow of
American Institute of Chemical Engineer (AIChE), Society of Plastic Engineer (SPE), the Royal Society of
Canada (RSC-Canada) and Royal Society of Chemistry (UK).
David Nix Green
Group Consulting
Sustainability Certification for TPO Supply Chain, Using ISCC
Plus
General Purpose TPV (PP/EPDM) & Morphology Development
Structure Property Relationship in TPV
Importance of Dynamic Vulcanization Process (DV)
Influence of PP/EPDM ratio
Influence of Rubber/Plastic Combinations
Technological Compatibilization
Super TPV’s (Super oil and Heat Resistance)
About the Speaker
David Nix is the president and owner of Green Group Consulting and Green Group
Reprocessing. In his 33-year career in the plastics industry, he has focused on polypropylene
and recycling. He began his professional life working for two of the largest polyolefin producers
in the world, LyondellBasell (Himont/Montell) and Braskem (Epsilon/Sunoco). In his 18 years
with these corporations, he held positions in sales, marketing, product development, product
management, production, asset management, sustainability, and recycling.
After building experience in the plastic industry, David ventured out by starting a small recycling
business and contracting with various privately owned companies. His expertise and skill set
helped him develop a large customer base that routinely relied on his technical knowledge. A
pivotal role in David’s career was with Braskem as the Sustainability and Recycling Leader for
the United States. He relished the opportunity to create recycling programs for a large
corporation that could begin to make big impacts in the use of recycled resin.
Continuing his vision for greater recycled resin usage and positively impacting the world, David
and his son Harrison Nix started Green Group Consulting– a consulting business that interfaces
with all aspects of the plastics value chain. They work with MRF’s, collectors, equipment
manufacturers, additive producers, reprocessors, compounders, converters, investors and
brand owners.
Carrying on their commitment to recycling, David and Harrison recently bought a postconsumer
polypropylene recycling business in Albert Lea, Minnesota and renamed it Green
Group Reprocessing. The homopolymer PCR product they make is unmatched in the industry.
They use a reverse logistics collection system and maintain a proprietary wash system that
produces consistently high-quality resin. They have improved production and are adding
capacity with new equipment installations.
David holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from the
McColl School of Business at Queens University of Charlotte.
Susan
Kozora IAC
Life Cycle Assessment Based on Carbon Footprint of PVC Slush
IP Skin vs TPE Injection Molded Soft Skin
Reduction global warming potential / CO2 emissions
Circular economy
OEM requirements to obtain new business:
Positive sustainability rating (NQC, ecovadis)
Use of green energy requested / required
Use of sustainable materials (recycled / renewable materials)
Measures to reduce CO2 emissions for materials, products and production processes
Proposals of sustainable materials and processes alternatively to requested materials and
processes
Tasks for IAC: Development of sustainable materials & products, testing and rating on potential
to reduce:
GWP potential, CO2 emissions and resource conservation
Calculation of Life Cycle Assesments for interior products
Validation of sustainability related developments.
About the Speaker
Susan holds a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Detroit with an emphasis
in polymers. She has over 37 years experience in plastics and adhesives technologies in both the
aerospace and automotive industries. She worked for Textron Aerospace Division in advanced composite
design for turbine engine components and in other advanced research and development functions. Susan
joined Ford Motor Company and provided materials engineering expertise for electronics systems, interior
systems, climate control systems and lighting systems. She then worked for Visteon Corporation as a
Materials Engineering Manager in the Advance Materials and Joining Technologies Department. Her
responsibilities included all polymeric materials across Visteon products, material recycling and reuse,
End of Life Vehicle (ELV) considerations and material sustainability as well as joining technologies for
all systems within Visteon.
Susan currently works at International Automotive Components (IAC Group) as Director of Advanced
Materials Engineering. She continues to work in the area of recycling and sustainability for all
products across IAC and applies her expertise in polymers and adhesives in product design and
development. She also functions as the Sustainability champion for the IAC Troy Campus.
Susan is former Division Chair and Conference Chair for the Society of Plastics Engineers
Sustainability Division. For the last several years she served as a session co-chair for the Sustainable
Materials track for the SPE Automotive TPO conference.
Susan has authored several publications relating to plastics & recycling and holds 3 patents.
Manjusri
Misra University of Guelph
Upcycling of Waste Polyolefins and Recycled Ocean Plastic in
Biocomposites Uses for a Circular Economy
Presentation Not Available
Summary
Overview:
Top priorities:
Resource conservation
Reduction global warming potential / CO2 emissions
Circular economy
OEM requirements to obtain new business:
Positive sustainability rating (NQC, ecovadis)
Use of green energy requested / required
Use of sustainable materials (recycled / renewable materials)
Measures to reduce CO2 emissions for materials, products and production processes
Proposals of sustainable materials and processes alternatively to requested materials and
processes
Tasks for IAC: Development of sustainable materials & products, testing and rating on potential
to reduce:
GWP potential, CO2 emissions and resource conservation
Calculation of Life Cycle Assesments for interior products
Validation of sustainability related developments.
About the Speaker
Dr. Manjusri Misra is a professor and Tier 1 Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Sustainable Biocomposites
in the School of Engineering and holds a joint appointment in the Department of Plant Agriculture at the
University of Guelph. As well, she is the Research Program Director of the Bioeconomy Panel for the
Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, a program between the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Rural
Affairs (OMAFRA) and the University of Guelph. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (UK),
the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and the Society of Plastic Engineers (SPE).
Misra’s current research focuses primarily on novel biobased composites and nanocomposites that can
take the place of conventional plastics in many commercial applications, from auto parts to packaging.
She specializes in the development of advanced polymeric materials from sustainable resources, recycled
materials, and waste-streams to reduce landfilling, ocean pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions,
supporting Circular Economy.
She has authored more than 800 publications, including 450 peer-reviewed journal papers, 30 book
chapters, and 55 patents. Her Google-Scholar citations count is 47,400 and h-index 96 (June 27, 2023).
She was the President of the BioEnvironmental Polymer Society (BEPS) in 2009. She serves on the
editorial boards of “Journal of Applied Polymer Science”, “Composites Part A: Science and
Manufacturing”, “Polymer Testing”, “Macromolecular Materials and Engineering”, "ACS Omega", and
“Composites Part C: Open Access”. Dr. Misra has received many awards including the Andrew Chase Forest
Products Division Award from the AIChE and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the BioEnvironmental
Polymer Society (BEPS). In 2020, she was selected as one of Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award
Winner in the Manulife Science and Technology category from the Women Executive Network.
Thomas
Sybrandy Inteva Products
Post Industrial Recycling of Natural Fiber Reinforced
Polypropylene (NFPP)
Natural Fiber Polypropylene (NFPP) is a nonwoven product
partially comprised of renewable resources that is used to provide
a mass savings to automotive interior trim components. The
manufacturing process used to form these interior trim
components produces a large volume of offal which increases
their cost, while negatively impacting the environment. This talk
will provide insight on how this high-value offal can be recovered
and reused. Finally, an overview is provided of our InLite™ product
offerings, with a focus on providing a cost-effective approach to
mass savings.
About the Speaker
Tom Sybrandy is a Senior Project Engineer working in the Advanced Development Group at Inteva Products
He is responsible for developing technologies and processes that offer unique cost-effective solution
lightweight constructions for automotive interior trim applications. His current work is focused on
nonwoven constructions, product recyclability, and perforation technologies for Class A Surfaces.
Tom is graduate of Ferris State University with a bachelor’s Product Design Engineering Technology and
an associate in CAD/Drafting Tool Design. Prior to joining Inteva Products, Tom held positions
throughout the Injection Molding Industry in both Tool Design and Program Management.
Applicable for food, feed, chemicals, plastics, packaging, textiles and renewable feedstock derived
from using renewable energy sources.
Energy and biofuels outside the EU
Industrial applications (e.g. Chemical)
About the Speaker
Peter Hawighorst is a project manager at the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification
(ISCC) program. Before joining ISCC, he studied agricultural sciences at the University of Bonn and
received a Ph.D. in forest sciences from the University of Goettingen. Afterwards he worked as a
scientific coordinator at the Büsgen-Institut of the University of Goettingen. Peter was part of the
team that developed the ISCC PLUS approach and since then is supporting companies with the
implementation of ISCC PLUS within supply chains in the chemical industry.
Kevin
Lyons Inteva Products
Product Designs to Facilitate Increased Recycled Content
Applicable for food, feed, chemicals, plastics, packaging, textiles and renewable feedstock derived
from using renewable energy sources.
Energy and biofuels outside the EU
Industrial applications (e.g. Chemical)
About the Speaker
Kevin Lyons is a Senior Material Development Engineer at Inteva Products. For the past 10 years, he has
been responsible for developing new materials, products and processes that offer performance and/or
manufacturing benefits. He uses his polymer knowledge to formulate novel thermoplastic olefin (TPO)
resin blends and combines these with supporting technologies to deliver unique product offerings to the
automotive industry. His current work is focused on TPO artificial leathers, textiles, product
recyclability, process optimization, and multi-functional surface technology (smart surfaces,
non-score). Prior to Inteva Products, he worked on studying the kinetics of carbon nanotube growth and
the preparation, conversion, characterization, and mechanical testing of polyacrylonitrile-based carbon
fibers reinforced with carbon nanotubes.
Kevin holds a B.S degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and a M.S.
degree in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.
Kevin
George Geon Performance Solutions
Sustainable Polyolefin Composites for Today and Tomorrow
Kevin George is a Field Development Engineer at GEON Performance Solutions with close to 10 years of
experience helping identify materials for automotive specializing in interiors. Kevin uses that
experience to assist GEON’s internal R&D teams in developing products that fully meet the customer’s
performance requirements.
Junhua
Zhang SABIC
Sustainability Mechanically Recycled Polypropylene Compounds
for Automotive Applications
Junhua Zhang holds a Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry and Physics from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese
Academy of Sciences in Bejing (2012). In 2012, she joined SABIC in Shanghai, China and relocated to the
Netherlands in 2014. Currently, she works as a Senior Scientist for Polyolefin Compounds in SABIC's
Global Technology and Innovation Department. Junhua's main research interests are in the area of polymer
blends and compounds, and their structure-properties relationship. Her current work is centered around
polypropylene compounds with focus on recycling, flame retardancy and foaming. She has co-authored 11
publications and filed 13 patents.
Lisa
Madenjian Dow
Sustainability Mechanically Recycled Polypropylene Compounds
for Automotive Applications
Enabling the Mobility
industry to incorporate in
the design of products
technologies that are more
sustainable to produce, use
and retire.
Applying sustainability
leadership in Climate
protection, Circular
economy, and Safer
materials to the vehicle's
Life Cycle: Design,
Production, Use,
End-of-life.
About the Speaker
Lisa Madenjian is a TS&D Fellow and Global Application Technology Leader for Consumer Markets in Dow’s
Packaging and Specialty Plastics business. She has 33 years of experience at Dow and specializes in
R&D/TS&D, Engineering Plastics to Polypropylene to Elastomers Material, Formulation, Application and
Market Development and New Business Development. Her primary areas of focus are new market development
for durable applications (rotomolding, adhesives, golf balls, footwear, photovoltaics) and
sustainability (value proposition development for Infrastructure, Consumer and Transportation). She has
an MS in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Missouri-Columbia and a BA in Chemistry and Politics
from Cornell College.
Megan
Krampe Mitsui
Addressing Net Zero Emission Goal, Using Carbon Negative
Bio-Based Polypropylene
Carbon Negative Bio-Polypropylene: From Corn to Ethanol to Ethylene to Propylene to Polypropylene.
Up to 1,510 kgs CO2
sequestered for every light
vehicle produced
Production Flexibility
Homopolymer
Copolymer
Drop-in replacement for
unfilled PP applications such as
door trims, cup holders, wheel
covers, and many more!
Suitable for Compounding
mineral filled PP, glass filled
PP, and TPO
Will help to replace reducing
ethanol demand from the
traditional fuel industry
Will not impact food supply
About the Speaker
Megan Krampe is a results driven professional with a strong track record for identifying innovative
solutions. After completing a degree in Chemical Engineering from Michigan State University, Megan began
her career at Mitsui Plastics, Inc. where she marketed SIS and C5 resins for tape and label production.
In 2022 Megan joined the development team within Mitsui Plastics where she focuses on identifying and
bringing new sustainable solutions such as carbon sequestering bio-based polypropylene to the automotive
market. When not working, Megan enjoys spending time with her family and two cats.
Michail
Dolgovskij Si Group
Additive Technologies to Improve TPO Performance in Automotive
Applications
The presentation is about how to improve the performance of TPOs in automotive applications using
additive technologies. The following are technologies that were studied with positive results:
POLYBOND™ is a polymer modifier that can help improve the mechanical performance of TPOs by
enhancing the adhesion between polypropylene (PP) and glass fibers. This can lead to part
light-weighting and metal replacement.
ANOX™ NDB S2225 is an antioxidant package that can provide enhanced thermal protection, lower VOC
emissions, and improved color stability at lower loadings when compared to standard AO packages. This
can help OEMs meet performance requirements and possibly sustainability goals by including greater
recycled content.
EVERCYCLE™ is effective at restabilizing recycled polypropylene (rPP). There are new grades in
development for long-term heat aging applications with rPP and an upcoming grade for recycled
polyamide (rPA).
About the Speaker
Mike Dolgovskij first worked with polymers during an undergraduate intern experience at Bayer in
Pittsburgh, PA. This initial work with polymers inspired him to study under Professor Chris Macosko at
the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with a PhD in Chemical Engineering in 2007. Following
graduation, Mike worked in Dow’s Core R&D group where he supported projects in PE and TPU. Mike then
worked as a TS&D engineer for Kuraray America, supporting customers in creating multilayer structures
with EVAL ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer for over 11 years. In early 2022, Mike joined SI Group as Sr.
Technical Service Manager for Plastics Solutions where he supports customers in the Americas and Europe
to improve their products with SI Group’s innovative portfolio of polymer additives.
Koichi Yuno Adeka
Advanced Polymer Additive Technology to promotes Circular
Economy
Kichi Yuno has worked at ADEKA CORPORATION for over a decade, starting as an R&D Engineer in the
Additive R&D department from January 2010 to November 2016. They then moved to the Additive solution
department and served as the Technical & Marketing Manager of Japan/Southeast Asia/Oceania from December
2016 to March 2020. From April 2020 to present, they have been serving as the Technical & Marketing
Manager of Japan/US and Technical Service Leader in the same department.
He has a strong educational background in engineering and materials science. They completed their
undergraduate degree in Material Science from Kyusyu University in 2008. They then pursued their
graduate degree in Materials from the Graduate School of Engineering at Kyusyu University from 2009 to
2010.
Ken Gassman
Inteva Products
Plenary Talk — Industry Trends Driving More for Less
Inteva is a global automotive supplier that offers a large portfolio of advanced technologies that are
aligned with the EV consumer. Their unique combination of material and process expertise provides a
winning solution. In this fast and changing environment, Inteva is setting the pace with new offerings.
Inteva’s approach combines the best of interior trim with new electronic innovation.
About the Speaker
Ken Gassman is the Global Director of Advanced Development for Inteva Products, leading a global
multi-team organization focused on innovation in all product areas including Interiors, Closures, and
Motors and Electronics. Ken is also the Platform Director of the Inteather™ and InStitch™ product
offerings with responsibilities for commercial, technical, and launch activities on Inteva's two newest
innovations developed within the organization. In both roles, Ken has ownership of developing and
implementing key strategies within all product areas, with the goal of positioning Inteva as a global
Tier One innovation leader.
Ken has a passion for development and the advancement of product, material, and process technologies in
the automotive industry. He holds several patents within numerous product lines and has been a key
contributor in the commercialization of many of Inteva's key technologies and product offerings over the
past 23 years.
Ken has held a variety of leadership roles including Pursuit Manager for New Business, Product
Engineering Manager, Operations Manager, and Development Director. He also has experience in several
product areas including seating, safety, interior trim, door hardware, power products, motors, and
electronics. He earned three degrees from Wayne State University: Bachelor of Science in Chemical
Engineering, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and a Master of Science in Engineering.
Ken has been a supporter of the Society of Plastics Engineers for his entire career and actively
participates in the yearly TPO Global Conference. Inteva is a key champion of this conference and helped
initiate it over 25 years ago.
Inteva is a global automotive supplier that offers a large portfolio of advanced technologies that are
aligned with the EV consumer. Their unique combination of material and process expertise provides a
winning solution. In this fast and changing environment, Inteva is setting the pace with new offerings.
Inteva’s approach combines the best of interior trim with new electronic innovation.
About the Speaker
Greg is the Director of research and development for CpK Interior products and has been with the
company for 10 years. In addition to R&D, Greg is also site responsible for CpK's plastics compounding
division. During his tenure at CpK, Greg has had over 25 patent applications and has brought many new
inventions, technologies, and materials to market that can be found in a variety of Stellantis vehicles.
Inteva is a global automotive supplier that offers a large portfolio of advanced technologies that are
aligned with the EV consumer. Their unique combination of material and process expertise provides a
winning solution. In this fast and changing environment, Inteva is setting the pace with new offerings.
Inteva’s approach combines the best of interior trim with new electronic innovation.
About the Speaker
Jeremy Husic has over 25 years working in the auto industry. After graduating from
Kettering University with electrical & mechanical engineering degrees, he started at Delphi Automotive.
He later moved to in-mold electronics start-ups and finally Inteva Products. His career has taken him
from structural analysis to mechatronics to in-mold & embedded electronics. He is credited with four
patents with a few more in the works. Jeremy is currently a staff engineer focused on integrating
electronics into automotive trim and supporting electronics within Inteva. He is a member of a team that
started down the path of Smart Automotive Surfaces a few years ago. Since then, Inteva has developed a
strong portfolio of Soft Smart Surface products for automotive trim.
David Whitehead is a Senior Project Engineer at Inteva Products LLC, where he has been working since
March 2008. He has over 15 years of experience in the field of engineering. He holds a degree in
Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University.
James Leo Mazurek FORVIA
Akim Khalef MATERI'ACT
Decarbonization in Automobiles — Material Options for
Automotive Interior Applications
Why should we ACT on Materials? The new priority will be emissions from material production.
Customer's Voice on Sustainable Materials. Key brand commitments and Market movements.
EU Regulations - Vehicle Circularity Strategy.
Compounds Portfolio.
Revolutionary compound with PP and natural fibers.
NAFILean Family - NAFILEAN, NAIFLEAN-R, NAFILEAN STIFF, NAFILEAN PERF and NAFILEAN VISION
Enabling Customer Satisfaction through lightweighting, industrial compliance and larger global
footprint.
About the Speaker
As sales and program director for MATERI'ACT in North America, James Leo Mazurek is
directly responsible for the
business development and deployment of sustainable materials in North America. In his 12 years with
FORVIA, Leo has held roles within engineering, operations, and purchasing. Leo is currently located in
Sunnyvale, CA.
As Sustainable Feedstock and Recyling Manager, Akim Khalef is directly responsible for
the creation and development of feedstock supply and value chain for FORVIA's new sustainable materials
entity, Materi'Act. In his 6 years with FORVIA, Akim has held a number of purchasing roles within the
US, Czech Republic, and Japan. He previously worked in the medical industry for bioMerieux in France.
Akim is currently located in Auburn Hills, MI.
He holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Lille and a Master's Degree in Strategic
Procurement Management from Grenoble IAE.
Inteva is a global automotive supplier that offers a large portfolio of advanced technologies that are
aligned with the EV consumer. Their unique combination of material and process expertise provides a
winning solution. In this fast and changing environment, Inteva is setting the pace with new offerings.
Inteva’s approach combines the best of interior trim with new electronic innovation.
About the Speaker
Greg is the Director of research and development for CpK Interior products and has been with the
company for 10 years. In addition to R&D, Greg is also site responsible for CpK's plastics compounding
division. During his tenure at CpK, Greg has had over 25 patent applications and has brought many new
inventions, technologies, and materials to market that can be found in a variety of Stellantis vehicles.
Antimicrobial technology is used to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that cause stains, odors, and
harmful product impacts. Common active ingredients include silver, zinc, and organics. Microban’s
current antimicrobial portfolio includes more than 25 technologies.
Molds and mildew are problematic in the automotive industry because they impair physical appearance,
weaken structure and compromise integrity, cause odors, and cause staining.
Antimicrobials protect materials, but accurate evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy is challenging.
Antimicrobials can prevent degradation such as optical, physical, and electrical.
Current antifungal test methods used for semi-absorbent substrates are qualitative test methods that
were developed for other substrates. Modifications can be made to appropriately assess antimicrobial
efficacy on semi-absorbers but it can introduce some challenges such as inoculation, incubation,
scoring, lab reproducibility, and increased variation. Microban has been researching a possible
alternative to qualitative assessment by using antibacterial quantitative test methods as a backbone.
This approach has increased reproducibility and provides more informative assessment.
Many qualitative test methods continue to be modified to accommodate the continuously changing markets,
but many uses fall outside the original intended scope of these methods. To accommodate newer and more
complex materials and newer technologies these older methods will need to be modified extensively to
achieve adequate performance evaluation. Quantitative methods could be a beneficial alternative in the
future to assess antifungal and anti-staining performance. Microban is continuing to explore these
testing avenues and research to date has been very promising.
About the Speaker
Dr. Ha is a Senior Product Development Engineer at Microban International. She has been a key engineer
in customer-focused projects and new product development. Her knowledge of incorporated polymeric
products brings a unique skill set to Microban partners. She obtained her B.S. degree in Polymeric
Material Engineering from Polytechnique University in Vietnam and has been working with polymers since
2002. In 2006, she received her M.Sc. degree from the University of Oklahoma after working with
emulsions and emulsion polymerization. Subsequently, she moved to the University of Houston and obtained
her Ph.D. in nanocomposites and polymer blends. Since 2011, she has been working with Microban to make
the world a cleaner place.
Antimicrobial technology is used to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that cause stains, odors, and
harmful product impacts. Common active ingredients include silver, zinc, and organics. Microban’s
current antimicrobial portfolio includes more than 25 technologies.
Molds and mildew are problematic in the automotive industry because they impair physical appearance,
weaken structure and compromise integrity, cause odors, and cause staining.
Antimicrobials protect materials, but accurate evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy is challenging.
Antimicrobials can prevent degradation such as optical, physical, and electrical.
Current antifungal test methods used for semi-absorbent substrates are qualitative test methods that
were developed for other substrates. Modifications can be made to appropriately assess antimicrobial
efficacy on semi-absorbers but it can introduce some challenges such as inoculation, incubation,
scoring, lab reproducibility, and increased variation. Microban has been researching a possible
alternative to qualitative assessment by using antibacterial quantitative test methods as a backbone.
This approach has increased reproducibility and provides more informative assessment.
Many qualitative test methods continue to be modified to accommodate the continuously changing markets,
but many uses fall outside the original intended scope of these methods. To accommodate newer and more
complex materials and newer technologies these older methods will need to be modified extensively to
achieve adequate performance evaluation. Quantitative methods could be a beneficial alternative in the
future to assess antifungal and anti-staining performance. Microban is continuing to explore these
testing avenues and research to date has been very promising.
About the Speaker
Dr. Ha is a Senior Product Development Engineer at Microban International. She has been a key engineer
in customer-focused projects and new product development. Her knowledge of incorporated polymeric
products brings a unique skill set to Microban partners. She obtained her B.S. degree in Polymeric
Material Engineering from Polytechnique University in Vietnam and has been working with polymers since
2002. In 2006, she received her M.Sc. degree from the University of Oklahoma after working with
emulsions and emulsion polymerization. Subsequently, she moved to the University of Houston and obtained
her Ph.D. in nanocomposites and polymer blends. Since 2011, she has been working with Microban to make
the world a cleaner place.
Sirmax is a company that produces recycled materials using an integrated process that involves
post-consumer r-PP production and green compounds. The company aims to maximize the PCR content on PPT5
for interiors, which offers benefits such as improved impact performances, aesthetic, odor and emission,
as well as sustainability and availability. One of the potential applications of Sirmax’s recycled
materials is the door panel, which can reduce the environmental impact and enhance the quality of the
product. Sirmax’s innovative process and products demonstrate its commitment to circular economy and
customer satisfaction.
About the Speaker
Mr. Luca Gazzola holds BS and MSc degree in Industrial Chemistry from University of Padua (Italy).
He has experience in compounds formulation and compounding process.
In 2010, joined Sirmax Company in Cittadella, Northern Italy. Initially in core R&D, he worked on
development of compounds based on polyolefins or engineering polymers for the automotive, electrical and
appliance market.
Luca covered the position of R&D Polyolefins Manager at Sirmax from 2015 to 2020 and today he's
responsible of the Polyolefins and Engineering polymers Innovation team focused on providing answers to
the most challenging market trends including sustainability in plastic materials.
Chris Engel Avient
Enhancing Automotjvo Interiors with Recycled Content
TPE's
Christopher Engel is an Advanced R&D Engineer at Avient Corporation. With 20+ years in the industry,
Christopher is responsible for developing new TPE formulations for commercial, industrial, automotive,
and medical markets. Christopher graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science from ITT Technical
Institute with the highest honors in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
Turner Slaughter VOLTEK
Recycled Materials and Non-Halogenated FR Technologies in
Crosslinked Closed Cell Polyolefin Foams for Interior Applications
Testing and Physical Property Comparisons of New Recycled Resin Foams
Why Non-Halogenated Flame-Retardant Foams?
Physical Property Comparisons of New Non-Halogenated FR Foams
About the Speaker
Turner Slaughter has a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering with a Life Sciences emphasis and a
bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics, both from Western Michigan University. He is now a Research
and Development Engineer in the plastics industry working for Sekisui Voltek. Before his career in the
plastics industry, he worked as a process engineer in the paper industry for a company that converted
post-consumer cardboard materials into new and desirable products. Now he is exploring using
post-consumer and post-industrial recycled materials to make foams for the automotive industry and
beyond that will help these industries to meet their sustainability goals.
Turner Slaughter VOLTEK
Predicting Mechanical Performance & Processing of Core-back
Foam Injection-molded Pam with Grained Surfaces
SABIC is a global leader in producing innovative materials that help reduce the CO2 footprint of
various industries. One of its solutions is the foam injection molding (FIM) and core back process,
which uses SABIC® PP compounds to create aesthetic and lightweight parts with enhanced mechanical
performance. In this presentation, we will show how SABIC has developed a method to predict the
mechanical behavior of core back foamed parts, and validated it at different levels: sample, prototype,
and part. We will also demonstrate the lightweighting potential and the improved functionality of core
back FIM by presenting two case studies: a lower tailgate trim and a side door panel. The key takeaways
are that SABIC’s FIM and core back process can offer significant benefits in terms of sustainability,
cost-efficiency, and design flexibility.
About the Speaker
Anil is a Gold Medalist in Master of Engineering in mechanical from Indian Institute of Science,
Bangalore, India. His primary expertise is in application development, structural design, engineering &
manufacturability using thermoplastics and hybrid materials for light weighting, performance enhancement
and part integration. Currently, Anil is part of Global Application Technology group and he is focusing
on development of thermoplastic material solutions for automotive including EV batteries and other
segments such as foam and lightweight for packaging application. He holds 15+ U.S. patents and has
co-authored more than five publications in reputed international conferences.
Brent Landis H.B. Fuller
Rick Snyder H.B. Fuller
H.B. Fuller's Thermonex® Clearbond Transparent Adhesive for
Interior Trim
Brent Landis is a Product Manager for the Automotive market in the Americas for H.B.
Fuller. He has been with the company for over 24 years in various roles starting in operations where he
began as a process engineer and later spent time as a production manager. In these positions he gained a
great appreciation for the importance of process optimization for production efficiency. He moved into
product management 10 years ago and began work in the Automotive Interior Trim segment in 2020.
Rick Snyder is the North American Automotive R&D laboratory Manager for H.B. Fuller.
Throughout his 35 plus year career, Rick has focused on product development of adhesives, sealants and
coatings for the automotive industry. He describes himself as problem solver with an emphasis on
creating win-win solutions. Rick is from Toledo, Ohio, a graduate of Adrian College and currently
resides in the Greater Detroit Metro area.
Kevin George Geon Performance Solutions
Tra Goss Geon Performance Solutions
Understanding Scratch and Mar Improvements for Increased
Consumer Satisfaction
Kevin George is a Field Development Engineer at GEON Performance Solutions with close
to 10 years of experience helping identify materials for automotive specializing in interiors. Kevin
uses that experience to assist GEON’s internal R&D teams in developing products that fully meet the
customer’s performance requirements.
Tra Goss has been in the Plastics Industry since 1993 and has worked in Research and
Development, Material Engineering, Technical Services, Account Management and Business Development. At
GEON Performance Solutions he is a Business Development Manager who is responsible for the relationships
between GEON and the Original Equipment Manufacturers. He is very passionate about working within teams
to accomplish common goals and objectives and looks forward to each new challenge.
Tariq Ali Syed SABIC
Next Generation SABIC Polypropylene Short Glass Fiber (PP-SGF)
Composite
SABIC’s next-generation SGF-PP compounds represent a significant advancement in composite materials,
designed to address the challenges of intricate part filling and cost-effectiveness in manufacturing.
These compounds boast an enhanced balance of properties, including high stiffness and impact resistance,
coupled with exceptional flow characteristics. This makes them an ideal choice for applications that
demand both precision and durability. Moreover, their superior mechanical properties make them a more
favorable alternative to certain engineering resins, offering potential weight and cost savings without
compromising on performance.
About the Speaker
Tariq Syed, a Staff Scientist and a product developer at SABIC a fortune 500 company, joined SABIC in
2010. Received his MSc in Chemical Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT, Chicago-IL).
He has experience in polymer industries from automotive to rocketry. Expertise in polymer physics,
mechanics, structural properties and polymer conversion technologies. Today, he serves as the lead on
several developments, characterization, testing of new products, involving automotive interior and
exterior applications.
Dr. Saied Kochesfahani is a S enior S cientist for
Plastics & Rubber applications at IMERYS Performance Mineral
Science Technology center located in Atlanta, Georgia . He has 22
years of R&D and business development experience working with a
wide range of minerals in plastics, rubber, and flame retardant
applications. Saied's current focus is on developing new mineral
solutions for improved mechanicals, thermal, rheogical, aethetics,
sustainability and flame retardant performance for various markets
including Automtoive, E&E and B uiling & Const ruction applications.
Saied holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of
Toroto, has been an active member of SPE and a frequent
presenter at SPE conferences since 2006.
Hybrid Overmolding/Comolding — Rebar for Plastics®
Benefits of Hybrid Material and Hybrid Length-Scale Composites
Structural Enhancement of Sustainable Materials
Conclusions
Upcoming Publications
About the Speaker
Christopher Oberste is the President and Chief Engineer of WEAV3D Inc. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials
Science and Engineering from Georgia Tech and a Bachelor of Polymer and Fiber Engineering from Auburn
University. Christopher focused his Ph.D. thesis on developing novel, low-cost composite manufacturing
processes, including the WEAV3D composite forming technology, and founded WEAV3D as a spin out from
Georgia Tech in 2017. He is named as the lead inventor on five issued patents and three patent
applications related to the WEAV3D technology.
Piergiovanni Ercoli Malacari
IMI Fabi SpA
How to Overcome Material Specifications in Talc Modified TPOs:
Introducing New Product Line Neofill
NeoFill a sustainable, performing, compacted, functional mineral
Conclusions
About the Speaker
Piergiovanni Ercoli Malacari is a product and application development engineer at IMI Fabi SpA, a
leading company in the production of talc. He has over 30 years of experience in the field of
thermoplastic materials, having worked in various roles in production, research, and development. He has
expertise in compounding, extrusion, tubing, and recycling of plastics, as well as in modifying and
applying thermoplastics with IMI Fabi talc. He has authored several technical papers on the use of talc
in polymers. He holds a degree in chemical engineering from Politecnico di Milano, Italy.
Kazuhisa Takagi
Asashi KASEI
Newly Developed Innovative SEBS for Automotive — Interior
Parts
Asahi Kasei's hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers (TUFTECTM and S.O.E.TM)
Newly developed innovative SEBS, S.O.E™ L614, for automotive-interior skin
Summary
About the Speaker
Kazuhisa Takagi has joined Asahi Kasei in 2014 and has been engaged in global sales and marketing of
chemical products.
He is currently in charge of sales and marketing of hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomer
products (TPS) in the global market, with particular responsibility for automotive applications.
Petya Yaneva, Ph.D.
SABIC
Newly Developed Innovative SEBS for Automotive — Interior
Parts
In this presentation, we will cover various aspects of the EV battery pack design and how SABIC can
provide solutions to meet the challenges and opportunities in this field. We will start with a brief
introduction of SABIC and its vision, mission, and values. Then, we will discuss the electrification
solution development process and how we can collaborate with our customers and partners to create
innovative and sustainable products. Next, we will focus on the design for structural performance, flame
retardancy, and manufacturability of the EV battery pack components, especially the thermoformed cover
solutions. We will also explain the material development and consideration, thermoforming
considerations, sheet extrusion, and material properties that are relevant for this application.
Finally, we will show you some prototype parts that we have developed and tested, and share the
learnings and key takeaways from this project. For more information, please refer to the Design
Guidelines in SABIC Brand Space.
About the Speaker
Petya Yaneva has more than 10 years in the area of Polymer Science and technology. She obtained MSc in
Biobased Materials from Maastricht University in The Netherlands and MSc in Polymer Science and
Engineering from Bulgaria. For the past five years, as part of SABIC, she has been providing material
development and compounding expertise for automotive and non-automotive applications in many projects
focused on lightweight solutions and fiber reinforced materials. In his current role as a Senior Manager
with SABIC’s Global PO Compound and STAMAX team, she is leading programs linked fiber reinforced
materials and supporting different application developments for customers.
Margot Clauss
Rianlon
Klaus Keck
Rianlon
How Stabilization of Automotive TPO Compounds Changed from the
Past and How it Could Evolve in the Future
Polymer chemist having worked over 25 years with additives to enhance either stability properties of
polymers or their applications performance.
Worked as technical, marketing and sales manager with Ciba Specialty Chemicals. Product Manager for
specialty additives at BASF and for intermediates at SI Group, and now with Rianlon as sales account
manager for thermal and light stabilizers.
Heejung Kwon
Songwon
Thermo-Oxidative Stabilization of Mechanically Recycled
Polypropylene Compounds
In this presentation, we will explore how stabilizers play a vital role in the mechanical recycling of
polypropylene (PP), one of the most widely used plastics in the world. We will also highlight how
SONGWON, a global leader in polymer additives, contributes to sustainability by developing innovative
and efficient stabilizer solutions for recycled PP.
About the Speaker
Petya Yaneva has more than 10 years in the area of Polymer Science and technology. She obtained MSc in
Biobased Materials from Maastricht University in The Netherlands and MSc in Polymer Science and
Engineering from Bulgaria. For the past five years, as part of SABIC, she has been providing material
development and compounding expertise for automotive and non-automotive applications in many projects
focused on lightweight solutions and fiber reinforced materials. In his current role as a Senior Manager
with SABIC’s Global PO Compound and STAMAX team, she is leading programs linked fiber reinforced
materials and supporting different application developments for customers.
Brett Robb
Resin Solutions
Ionic Additive to Improve Melt Strength in Recycled and Virgin
PP Compounds
Polypropylene (PP) is a widely used thermoplastic polymer with many applications in various industries.
However, PP has low melt strength, which limits its processing and performance. To overcome this
challenge, ionic additives have been developed to modify PP and enhance its melt strength. This
presentation will review the recent advances in ionic additive technology for PP, and discuss how it can
improve the properties and sustainability of both recycled and virgin PP compounds. The presentation
will also provide some examples of commercial ionic additives and their performance in various PP
formulations. The aim of this presentation is to demonstrate how ionic additive technology can help PP
processors and end-users to create higher value products with improved functionality and sustainability.
About the Speaker
Joining Sartomer in 2008 as an Applications Chemist, Brett Robb joined Cray Valley when it was split
from Sartomer. Brett is currently responsible for research and development of functional additives for
thermoplastics at Total Energies Cray Valley. Brett graduated from Pennsylvania College of Technology
with a degree in plastics and polymer engineering technology.
Kevin George
Resin Solutions
Developing Polyolefin Compounds with a Metallic Look
This presentation is about how to create polyolefin compounds with a metallic look. Polyolefins are
polymers that are made from olefins, which are unsaturated hydrocarbons. They have many industrial uses,
such as packaging, textiles, automotive, and biomedical sectors. To give them a metallic look, Geon, a
company that provides polyolefin solutions, uses color theory and customization to match the customer’s
needs. Geon also selects the right pigments, additives, and carriers to achieve the optimal metallic
effect. Geon considers the compatibility, dispersion, stability, and rheology of the components in the
polyolefin compound. Geon also designs, produces, and tests the parts with a metallic look, considering
their shape, size, thickness, surface finish, and durability. This document covers all these topics in
detail.
About the Speaker
Kevin George is a Field Development Engineer at GEON Performance Solutions with close to 10 years of
experience helping identify materials for automotive specializing in interiors. Kevin uses that
experience to assist GEON’s internal R&D teams in developing products that fully meet the customer’s
performance requirements.
Yuhei Hattori
Amfine
Superior Polypropylene via Use of Novel Nucleating Agent
Technology
Polypropylene (PP) is a widely used polymer that can be improved by nucleating agents, which speed up
and tune the crystallization process. One type of nucleating agent is the β-nucleating agent, which can
enhance the properties of PP by forming β-crystals. A novel β-nucleating agent, NA-B99P, is introduced
in this paper. It is shown that NA-B99P can improve the performance of PP in terms of clarity,
stiffness, heat resistance, and processability. NA-B99P can also be used in automotive formulations to
achieve better impact strength and scratch resistance. The paper also discusses the latest nucleating
agent technology and concludes that NA-B99P is a superior β-nucleating agent for PP.
About the Speaker
Yuhei Hattori earned his Degree of Bachelor of Engineering from Nagoya University (2016) and his Degree
of Master of Engineering from Nagoya University (2018).
He has 4 years on the job experience in the polymer additives industry for ADEKA Corporation.
Especially, he has experience in developing nucleating/clarifying agents for polypropylene. Currently,
he is the R&D Advisor for Amfine Chemical Corporation, a position he has held for the last 1 year, and
technical support for customer projects.
Enrico Galfrè
SABO
Additives Engineering and Impact on Polyolefins Weather
Stability and Anti-Dust Properties
Polyolefins are versatile polymers that can be used in various applications, such as automotive
interiors. However, they also face some challenges, such as weathering, dust accumulation, and scratch
resistance. To overcome these challenges, additives engineering is a key strategy that can modify the
properties and performance of polyolefins. In this presentation, I will discuss some of the latest
developments in additives engineering and how they impact the weather stability and anti-dust properties
of polyolefins. I will also share some examples of novel additives, such as nucleating agents, ionic
additives, and non-halogen flame retardants, that can enhance the functionality and sustainability of
polyolefins.
About the Speaker
Mr. Enrico Galfrè is a graduate in Chemistry at Turin University (Italy). He grew his professional
experience in polymers, first as R&D Chemist, and then as Customer Technical Support and
Application Development, both in the polymers industry at Eastman Chemical and in additives
industry at Ciba/BASF. Now, at Sabo SpA, he provides support to Sabo's customers on selecting
and developing the most appropriate polymers stabilizing solutions according to the changing
needs in the industry
Deen Chundury, Ph.D.
Plastics Compounding LLC
Novel Non-halogen FR PP Development and Commercialization
Polyolefins are versatile polymers that can be used in various applications, such as automotive
interiors. However, they also face some challenges, such as weathering, dust accumulation, and scratch
resistance. To overcome these challenges, additives engineering is a key strategy that can modify the
properties and performance of polyolefins. In this presentation, I will discuss some of the latest
developments in additives engineering and how they impact the weather stability and anti-dust properties
of polyolefins. I will also share some examples of novel additives, such as nucleating agents, ionic
additives, and non-halogen flame retardants, that can enhance the functionality and sustainability of
polyolefins.
About the Speaker
Dr. Deen Chundury is a polymer expert with over 40 years of experience in the plastics industry. He is
currently the Chief Technology Officer of Plastics Compounding, LLC, a company that provides custom
compounding solutions for various applications. He joined the company in January 2018, after serving as
the Vice-President of R&D at Wellman Advanced Materials, a leading producer of recycled and virgin resin
products. Prior to that, he was the Director of Technology at Asahi Kasei Plastics North America, a
manufacturer of engineered thermoplastics for automotive and industrial markets. He started his career
at Ferro Corporation, where he worked as a Technical Director for 23 years and was responsible for
developing and commercializing high-value engineered compounds, color concentrates, and thermoplastic
elastomers. He received four Weaver Awards for Technical Excellence and over 12 New Products Awards at
Ferro Corporation. He holds a Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering from the University of
Massachusetts Amherst.
Emile Hornsi, Ph.D.
Cargill
How Various Combinations of Additives Affects the Performance
of Antiscratch Additives in PP Automotive Formulation
Polypropylene (PP) is a widely used polymer in the automotive industry, especially for interior parts.
However, PP is prone to scratching and abrasion, which can affect its appearance and durability. To
improve the scratch resistance of PP, various additives can be compounded with the polymer, such as
nucleating agents, lubricants, and anti-static agents. In this presentation, I will discuss how
different combinations of these additives affect the performance of anti-scratch additives in PP
automotive formulation. I will also show some experimental results and compare the scratch resistance of
PP with different additive systems. The presentation will provide some insights into the optimal
additive selection and formulation for enhancing the anti-scratch properties of PP.
About the Speaker
Emile Homsi is the R&D and Technical Services Leader of NAM/LATAM for the Polymer Additives Industrial
Solutions at Cargill BioIndustrial.
Dr. Homsi has spent his career in strategic leadership of global applications, product Development, and
business development programs with focus in the Polymer Industry and key roles with Polymer
Manufacturing Companies, such as BASF, Sabic and others. He was responsible to drive the technology
strategy, road-map roll out and execution, among other duties stimulating growth.
Dr. Homsi earned a Doctorate in Engineering, Masters in Technology Management and Business
Administration, and other degrees.
Nischay Kodihalli Shivaprakash, Ph.D.
Mitsubishi Chemical America
Split-Proof Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV) for Corner
Molding Application
TREXPRENE™ TPV for Glass-Run Channel Corner Molding Application
Performance Attributes
Exemplary Formulation
TREXPRENE™ TPV Corner Molding Compound (TPV-CMC)
Mechanical Property
Tribology
Schematic of Injection Molding & Adhesion Sample Preparation Process
Adhesion Property
Interface Morphology
Creep Property
Accelerated Exterior Weathering per SAEJ 2527
Application to GMW 15825 Type 6 specification
Conclusions
About the Speaker
Dr. Nischay is an R&D Chemist at Mitsubishi Chemical America (MCA) responsible for the product
development function of TPV and TPE materials for automotive and building and construction applications.
Prior to joining MCA, he received his Ph.D. degree in Plastics Engineering from the University of
Massachusetts Lowell His areas of expertise include polymer formulation development, elastomer
technology, surface engineering for tailored wettability and advanced polymer processing.
Nischay Kodihalli Shivaprakash, Ph.D.
Mitsubishi Chemical America
Split-Proof Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV) for Corner
Molding Application
Electric vehicles (EVs) require cooling systems to maintain optimal battery performance and safety.
However, traditional materials such as EPDM rubber, PA and PPS have limitations in terms of durability,
weight and cost. Santoprene® thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) is a novel material that can be used to
manufacture EV cooling hoses and tubes. It offers increased durability, lower weight and system costs,
and in-process and end-of-life recyclability. In this presentation, I will discuss the advantages of
Santoprene® TPV over conventional materials and show some examples of its applications in EV cooling
systems. I will also share some insights into the latest developments and trends in the EV cooling hose
market.
About the Speaker
Paul currently serves as the Santoprene Automotive Marketing Manager and Application Development
Engineer for the Americas at Celanese. He has 33 years of experience entirely in the plastics
compounding and materials industry, with most of that focused in the thermoplastic Elastomer area. He
has had roles ranging from Technology Development, to Product Management, to Sales and Marketing, to
Business and Strategy Development. He holds a Master’s Degree in Polymer Science and a Bachelor’s Degree
in Chemistry from the University of Akron.
Şerif Erdoğan
Elastron
Self Lubricated Low Coefficient of Friction Thermoplastic
Vulcanizate (TPV) for Corner Molding Application
Şerif Erdoğan is a Chemical Engineer, he started his career at National Institute as Research Engineer
in Fluid Mechanics. He joined Elastron in May 2005 in the role of Global R&D Manager and is responsible
for developing and executing of TPV(EPDM/PP), TPE-S and TPO based compounds to add value in market.
Using his knowledge and experience, he will talk about Self Lubricated Low Coefficient of Friction
TPV(EPDM/PP) for Corner Molding Application; Optimum adhesion performance onto EPDM,TPV and TPS
Weatherseal.
Talat Karmo, Ph.D.
Vintech Industries
Innovative Elastomer Product Designs and Processing Including
Integrated Plastic Fastener Extrusions
Dr. Karmo is currently the Global Materials Technology Manager at Vintech Industries. Prior to that he
was the Material Innovation and Technology Lead for Body Exterior at Ford Motor Company Product
Development Center. Dr. Karmo started his automotive career at General Motors Corporation where he held
many Engineering positions at the GM Technical Center including manager of Materials and Fastener
Engineering.
Dr. Karmo received his Master and Ph.D. degrees in Polymer science and Engineering from the University
of Lancaster in England. He also attended Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio as a
Postdoctoral Research Associate in the School of Engineering, Dept of Macromolecular science.
Takeshi Tominaga
Sumika Polymers (Sumitomo)
Newly Developed TPV for Glass-Run Channel Comer Joint
Applications
Takeshi is currently a senior researcher at Sumitomo Chemical Japan. Throughout all his business
career, he has been engaged in the development of TPO products. He has 25 years working experience with
considerable expertise in the polymer science which allows him to provide clear and smart solutions on
challenging matters.
Prashant Bhadane, Ph.D.
Celanese
Reduce Carbon Footprint with Santoprene ECO-R TPVs
Introduction of Santoprene® TPV ECO-R made using Post-Consumer Recycle (PCR) materials
Santoprene® TPV ECO-R performance and comparison to virgin TPVs
Sustainability benefits of Santoprene® TPV ECO-R
Summary
About the Speaker
Dr. Prashant Bhadane is a Sr Product Development Engineer at Celanese Corporation for their Santoprene®
TPV business and have now been working in the field of TPVs for over two-decades. His research interests
and expertise include polymer surfaces, interface modification, morphology control, reactive polymer
processing, polymer blends, and their structure-property relationship. His passion for research,
leadership, and for developing sustainable solutions has yielded several patents and scientific
publications with over 200 citations and has helped create new Santoprene® TPV products that include
built-in low COF B260/265 bonding grades and more recently the development of whole Santoprene® ECO-R
product platform. Today he is talking to us on reducing carbon footprint with Santoprene® ECO-R products
that are made using post-consumer recycled materials.
Kaho Tazeo
ENEOS Materials
Reduce Carbon Footprint with Santoprene ECO-R TPVs
Kaho is currently a research engineer at ENEOS Materials corporation. Prior to coming to ENEOS she
worked for Toyoda Gosei for 4 years. She has bachelors and masters in chemical engineering from Nagoya
university Japan.
David Truong, Ph.D
Kraton Polymers
Sustainable Styrenic Block Copolymer Solutions to Enhance
Multipolymer Compatibilization and Performance in Automotive Applications
The presentation will discuss how sustainable system basis chips (SBC) can improve the compatibility
and performance of different polymers in automotive applications. SBC are integrated circuits that
provide power management, communication, and diagnostic functions for various automotive modules. The
presentation will showcase some innovative solutions to enhance multipolymer compatibilization and
performance using SBC, such as wave casting technology, elastomer product designs, and TPV for glass-run
channel corner joint applications. The presentation will also address the challenges and opportunities
of using SBC in the automotive industry.
About the Speaker
Polymer Scientist with experience in product and application development across a wide range of
industries. David and his team have successfully leveraged the versatile chemistry of styrenic block
copolymers and unparalleled manufacturing expertise of Kraton to create new opportunities and markets,
including CirKular+ solutions. Prior to joining Kraton, David was a Research Scientist at the Soft
Matter Facility located in College Station, TX. David has BS and PhD degrees in Chemical Engineering.
David has expertise in different areas of engineering and science, including polymer
structure-property-processing relationships, and material and chemical characterization techniques.
Koffi Dagnon
SABIC
Compression Molded EV Battery Enclosure with Flame Retardant
Glass Reinforced Polyolefin Compounds
Co-compression molding with EMI shielding material
Key takeaways / summary
About the Speaker
Koffi Dagnon is a lead scientist with more than 15 years of experience in product and application
development in the research field of thermoplastic materials. He joined SABIC in 2019 and is responsible
for developing lightweight, cost-effective thermoplastic and thermoplastic composites hybrids solutions
for EV batteries and automotive structures. Koffi holds a PhD in Materials Science & Engineering from
the University of North Texas.
Alex Baker
Moldex3D
Advanced Simulation Techniques for Predicting and Mitigating
Stress Marks on High-Quality Product Surfaces
Stress Marks & Benefits of Using Hot Runner Systems
Valve Gate Control: Using Simulation to Study Pin Movement
Pin Profile Variation: 2 Drops
Sequential Valve Gating: 4 Drops
Case Study Discussion
4-drop: Weld Line & Stress Mark Location
4-drop study
Syn Flow Study
About the Speaker
Alex Baker has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Pennsylvania State University and has
worked at Moldex3D as an Applications Engineer since 2015. At Moldex3D, Alex has provided training in
molding simulation software for over a thousand users, has worked on numerous validation and
benchmarking case studies, and supports the technological integration of Moldex3D for several different
OEMs in various industries. In addition, Alex also manages the Moldex3D North America YouTube channel, a
source of valuable information for new and existing users of all types.
Ed Wenzel
Inteva Products
Implementation of Live, Nonfunctional Decorative Stitching as
an Alternative to Cut-Sew-Wrap Technology for Automotive Applications
Live, nonfunctional decorative stitching (LNDS) is a novel technique that enables the creation of
aesthetic patterns on automotive interior components without the need for cutting, sewing, and wrapping
(CSW) processes. LNDS uses a robotic sewing system to apply stitches directly on vacuum-formed or
injection-molded parts, resulting in reduced material waste, lower production costs, and enhanced design
flexibility. This paper presents the implementation of LNDS as an alternative to CSW technology for
automotive applications, and discusses its advantages, challenges, and future prospects. The paper also
provides examples of LNDS products and compares their performance and appearance with CSW products.
About the Speaker
Work in the Advanced Development Group at Inteva Products focusing on material, process and equipment
development for automotive interior applications. Current work focused on development and growth of
advanced stitching technologies within the automotive interiors market. Past experience in low pressure
injection molding, thermoplastic LFT compression molding (LFT-G & LFT-D), long fiber injection molding
and non-woven compression forming, Responsible for profile extrusion process development and production
implementation for GM L car program as well as automated stitching technology development and production
implementation for GM Lambda (Chev Traverse, Buick Enclave & GMC Acadia) and GM K2XX, T1XX & T1MCM (Chev
Silverado & GMC Sierra PU trucks) programs. Received BSME from North Carolina State University in 1985
and MSMSE from University of Michigan in 1995.
Jason Brownell
Polyfuze Graphics
Polymer Fusion Labeling: A New Labeling Technology that
Answers Major Safety Concerns and Reduces Liability
Polymer fusion labeling is a novel technique that allows permanent and durable labeling of polyolefin
thermoplastic products, such as containers, packaging, and medical devices. Unlike conventional methods
that rely on adhesives, inks, or coatings, polymer fusion labeling uses compatible pigmented polymers
that fuse with the product at a molecular level. This eliminates the risk of label detachment, fading,
or contamination, which can cause safety hazards, regulatory violations, or legal liabilities. Polymer
fusion labeling also offers environmental benefits, as it does not generate any waste or interfere with
the recyclability of the product. In this paper, we describe the principles and advantages of polymer
fusion labeling technology, and present some case studies of its applications in various industries.
About the Speaker
Jason Brownell, Director of Engineering at Polyfuze Graphics Corporation, specializes in the world’s
only permanent labeling solutions for olefin based plastics. He has used his knowledge and experience in
permanent labeling solutions to provide excellent service for industries ranging from recreational
kayaks and boats, automotive, packaging, commercial cleaning products, and durable plastic products
industries. Having served in many roles in the company for the past 25+ years, including traveling to
client facilities to help solve problems with a hands-on approach, he is able to understand and strives
to meet each customer’s needs on an individual basis. Currently as the Director of Engineering and a
Lean Six Sigma Blackbelt, Jason develops strategies that aim to help customers achieve their goals.
Whether it’s helping a customer achieve a goal with brand image, reducing scrap rate, or improving
efficiency through Lean Six Sigma techniques, Jason is committed to helping people succeed. Currently
residing in the beautiful Verde Valley, Arizona, Jason enjoys spending time with his family, playing
multiple musical instruments, and cooking.
Dmitriy Yurchenko is the Engineering Manager for GKN Additive, North America. Dmitriy has worked with
polymer powder bed fusion printing for over 5 years, specifically optimizing the GKN processes and
systems for production of end-use parts for the Automotive and Commercial industries. He has a
bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from California State University, Long Beach and an MBA from San
Diego State University.
Charlie Martin
Leistritz Extrusion
Managing Melt Temperature in a Co-rotating Twin Screw
Extruder
Managing melt temperature in a twin screw extruder is crucial to achieve optimal mixing and avoid
degradation of polymers and additives. A twin screw extruder consists of modular screws and barrels that
can be configured to suit different process tasks. The screws rotate at high speed and input energy into
the materials, resulting in high shear and temperature. The melt temperature depends on various factors,
such as the OD/ID ratio of the screws, the design of the melting zone, and the front-end device. By
adjusting these factors, one can control the free volume, torque, and pressure in the extruder and
optimize the melt temperature for different formulations.
About the Speaker
Dmitriy Yurchenko is the Engineering Manager for GKN Additive, North America. Dmitriy has worked with
polymer powder bed fusion printing for over 5 years, specifically optimizing the GKN processes and
systems for production of end-use parts for the Automotive and Commercial industries. He has a
bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from California State University, Long Beach and an MBA from San
Diego State University.
Charlie is President of Leistritz Extrusion USA, a company that provides twin screw extruders and
engineering services to the plastics and Life Science in the North America and around the world.
Extensively published, Charlie has delivered technical presentations at wide-ranging events around the
world, authored numerous papers and chapters relating to an array of extrusion related topics, and is
the co-editor of the textbook entitled Pharmaceutical Extrusion Technology. He has also been awarded 2
extrusion related patents.
Charlie serves on the Board of Directors for the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Extrusion
Division, and the Polymer Processing Institute. He also serves on the Bioplastics Division Committee for
the Plastics Industry Association.
Charlie earned his undergraduate degree from Gettysburg College and an MBA from Rutgers University.
Steven R. Sopher
JSP
Automotive Seating and Interiors Innovation Using EPP
Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) is a versatile and recyclable foam material that has many applications in
various industries, especially in the automotive sector. EPP has several advantages over other
materials, such as high energy absorption, multiple impact resistance, thermal insulation, buoyancy,
water and chemical resistance, and high strength to weight ratio. It is widely used in automotive
seating, as it can provide comfort, safety, and durability to the passengers. It can be molded into any
shape and size, and can be combined with other materials through insert molding or attachment methods.
It can also withstand high temperatures and pressures during processing and use.
EPP has unique material properties that make it suitable for finite element analysis (FEA) modeling. It
exhibits stress-strain and isotropic characteristics that can be simulated and optimized using FEA
software. It can also meet the performance standards required by the automotive industry, such as
crashworthiness, flammability, and dimensional stability. It is a remarkable material that has many
benefits and applications in the automotive sector and beyond. EPP can offer a cost-effective and
environmentally friendly solution for various engineering challenges.
About the Speaker
Steve has over 35 years of experience in the plastics field. He has worked at Raytheon, Dow/United
Technologies, ARCO Chemical, and is currently the Vice President of Technology at JSP. He holds BS and
MS degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. He holds 2 patents in
the area of expanded polypropylene foam. He is the author of over 30 papers and 2 book chapters in the
area of polyolefin foamed plastics, and is member of ASME, SPE, SAE and the Plastics Pioneers
Association.
Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) is a versatile and recyclable foam material that has many applications in
various industries, especially in the automotive sector. EPP has several advantages over other
materials, such as high energy absorption, multiple impact resistance, thermal insulation, buoyancy,
water and chemical resistance, and high strength to weight ratio. It is widely used in automotive
seating, as it can provide comfort, safety, and durability to the passengers. It can be molded into any
shape and size, and can be combined with other materials through insert molding or attachment methods.
It can also withstand high temperatures and pressures during processing and use.
EPP has unique material properties that make it suitable for finite element analysis (FEA) modeling. It
exhibits stress-strain and isotropic characteristics that can be simulated and optimized using FEA
software. It can also meet the performance standards required by the automotive industry, such as
crashworthiness, flammability, and dimensional stability. It is a remarkable material that has many
benefits and applications in the automotive sector and beyond. EPP can offer a cost-effective and
environmentally friendly solution for various engineering challenges.
About the Speaker
Steve has over 35 years of experience in the plastics field. He has worked at Raytheon, Dow/United
Technologies, ARCO Chemical, and is currently the Vice President of Technology at JSP. He holds BS and
MS degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. He holds 2 patents in
the area of expanded polypropylene foam. He is the author of over 30 papers and 2 book chapters in the
area of polyolefin foamed plastics, and is member of ASME, SPE, SAE and the Plastics Pioneers
Association.
Dan is currently a product application and development engineer at LyondellBasell Advanced Polymer
Solutions division Polypropylene compound group. His responsibilities include innovative research for
automotive applications, heavy truck and non-automotive product development, and center of excellence of
minerals and fillers for PP compounds. He has three years applied research experience since obtaining
Ph.D. in 2020. He holds Ph.D. degree with a research focus in polymer nanocomposites from The Ohio State
University. He has authored or co-authored 20 journal papers, and served as journal guest editor in
polymer and composite research field. Throughout his PhD and Postdoc programs, he successfully completed
several research projects funded by different U.S. federal and state agencies, and Honda R&D Americas,
etc.
Inteva is a global supplier of engineered components and systems for the automotive industry, with
product lines that include Closure Systems, Interior Systems, Roof Systems, and Motors and Electronics1.
In this presentation, the company will share its insights on the latest trends in the design and
manufacture of door systems.
About the Speaker
Brian H. Staser is the Manager of Global Door Systems Advanced Development at Inteva Products, LLC. He
has more than three decades of experience in mechanical product engineering and automotive door hardware
engineering. He leads the development of innovative door hardware systems for automotive and commercial
truck applications, integrating features and functions from Inteva’s three product groups. He has
successfully launched over eight production door hardware systems and received five industry awards for
his contributions to lightweighting and plastics technology. He has also published two papers in his
field. He holds 23 patents, four defensive publications, one trade secret, and has 13 patents pending.
He has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University, an M.S. in Engineering – Mechanical
Engineering from Loyola Marymount University, and an M.S. in Engineering Science in the Management of
Technology from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Gaoxiang Wu
Dow
Polyolefin Elastomer Choices in Designing Translucent TPO
Compounds
Translucent TPO compounds can provide light-weight and cost-effective solutions for interior and
exterior parts with diffusive light transmittance properties. These materials can enable future
automotive part design with enhanced lighting, signaling, and messaging effects, while maintaining the
benefits of traditional TPO materials, such as light weight, good injection molding processing, and
low-temperature toughness. In this talk, the effect of polyolefin elastomer selection on optical and
physical performance of translucent TPO compounds will be presented, highlighting polyolefin elastomer
designs that enable an improved balance of properties.
About the Speaker
Gaoxiang Wu is currently associate research scientist at Dow Inc. and have over five years’ experience
on designing new polyolefin elastomer materials to satisfy emerging industrial needs with strong focus
to the polyolefin elastomer impact modifier innovation in automotive TPO application. Gaoxiang Wu holds
Ph.D. degree from Materials Science and Engineering Department at University of Pennsylvania and had
extensive academic research experience on polymers and interfacial phenomena with
colloidal/nano-particle materials. He has published over 20 papers on top-tier materials science
journals, 14 patent applications with 1 patent granted in his research fields.
Nicolas Schlutig
Sumika Polymers (Sumitomo)
Innovative Short Glass Fibre Reinforced Polypropylene
Compounds for Liftgate and High Class Automotive Applications
Mr. Nicolas Schlutig is the technical manager at SumikaPolymer Compounds France. His
responsibilities include technical lead for main automotive OEMs and global technical assistance for
glass reinforced compounds polypropylene. He started as a process engineer and have more than 16 years
of experience in formulation, compounding and processing of glass reinforced compounds. He has extensive
experience in the automotive applications. He holds an engineering degree in polymer engineering and
technology from Marseille University, France.
Jue (Jane) Lu
Sumika Polymers (Sumitomo)
High Stiffness Thermoplastic Olefin, (TPOs) Enabling Light
Weight Body Panel Applications
Dr. Jane Lu received her PhD degree in Chemical Engineering from University of Delaware. Before joining
Lyondellbasell in 2014, Dr. Lu has more than 10 years R&D experience in polymers and composites, and
their broad applications. Currently she is focusing on the product development of TPO for automotive
applications at Lyondellbasell.
Mr. Nicolas Schlutig is the technical manager at SumikaPolymer Compounds France. His
responsibilities include technical lead for main automotive OEMs and global technical assistance for
glass reinforced compounds polypropylene. He started as a process engineer and have more than 16 years
of experience in formulation, compounding and processing of glass reinforced compounds. He has extensive
experience in the automotive applications. He holds an engineering degree in polymer engineering and
technology from Marseille University, France.
Manojdeep Jasrotia
Caresoft Global
Keynote: The Value of Benchmarking to the Mobility
Evolution
In his presentation, he will discuss how Caresoft Global finds itself at the center of the ongoing
mobility revolution. As a benchmarking and engineering firm, they are in a uni9ue position where they
are able to observe and assess the different levels of efficiency, complexity, and opportunity for
optimization within a vehicle. Manoj will share the evolving role of materials in enabling mass and cost
savings, safety, styling, and ease-of-manufacturing for EVs.
About the Speaker
A seasoned engineering professional, leader, and strategist, Manojdeep Jasrotia is the Vice President
of North America Sales for Caresoft Global. His experiences in industrial engineering, manufacturing,
supply chain, and product line marketing help him in putting together and executing customized
consulting and technical solutions for global Automotive clients.
As a leader at Caresoft, Manoj has been able to witness first-hand the mobility evolution and can speak
directly to the current plastics applications in the market and the future we can expect to see.
The vehicle cockpit is where all the mobility megatrends of electrification, connectivity, autonomy and
sustainability converge. By mid-decade, vehicle cockpits will go through a major transformation that
promises to bring new opportunities and challenges for TPOs. This presentation will feature pictures of
the most impressive cockpit and IP designs coming out in 2024-2026. Instrument panels will be designed
to limit driver distraction, with more information being projected on the windshield and virtual cockpit
controls placed closer to the driver. Because a growing number of consumers view vehicles as a "third
space" defined as a place outside of work and home, automakers are designing interiors more like living
rooms with moveable seats. EVs also will drive a transition from electricity-guzzling HVAC systems to
more efficient heated and cooled seats and surfaces. This presentation will reveal the results of our
latest industry survey including when most vehicles will have 25% sustainable cockpit materials. Future
cockpits also will have more safeguards for children, the elderly and the disabled, with antimicrobial
surfaces and automatic doors for easy access.
About the Speaker
Drew Winter has followed cockpit of the future topics and have been researching and writing about
automotive interiors for more than 20 years, first as an award-winning automotive journalist and then as
a producer of the WardsAuto Interiors and WardsAuto User Experience conferences. He test drives dozens
of vehicles a year as a judge for the Wards 10 Best Propulsion Systems, Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX
each year in addition to being a long-time juror for the North American Car, Truck and Utility of the
Year awards. You can find his research here: https://wardsintelligt highlightence.informa.com/
Gustavo Lombardi
Braskem
Keynote: Reducing Carbon Footprint with Performance: The Role
of
Bio-based Plastics in Mitigating Climate Change
Summary
Actions to combat climate change and its impact are Increasing, but what the plastics industry has
accomplished so far is not sufficient to meet ambitious carbon reduction goals. Many companies are
behind schedule on their initiatives because many current sustainable solutions are restricted by
technical limitations.
In early 2023, Braskem announced a plan to invest in an industrial-scale facility in the US to produce
100% segregated biobased polypropylene (PP) from bioethanol as part of its commitment to becoming carbon
neutral by 2050. Braskem has been commercially producing biobased polyethylene (PE) from bioethanol in
Brazil since 2010. This project will utilize Braskem's proven proprietary technology to convert
bioethanol into physically segregated bio-based PP. This investment in biobased polypropylene validates
Braskem's commitment to the North American PP industry by using well-known technology and decades of
experience to deliver sustainable PP solutions.
About the Speaker
Gustavo Lombardi is tGustavector of Business Development at Braskem America. In this role, he is
responsible for the Biobased Polypropylene project, leading the strategy globally from sourcing to
sales, including supplier and commercial partner selection and the long-term business plan for the
project. Previously, Gustavo has held various roles at Braskem, including the Market Segment Leader for
Nonwoven, Channels to Market, and Green Polyethylene for North America, He also served as the business
leader for the Colombia and Andean Region in South America, and sales in Brazil. Prior to joining
Braskem, Gustavo worked for Henkel, leading the industrial adhesives division in Brazil, and worked at
the flexible packaging division for Bemis in Brazil. Gustavo holds a bachelor's degree in Polymeric
Material Engineering from the University of Sao Carlos in Sao Paulo/Brazil. He furthered his education
by obtaining a Business Administration specialization at the University of Berkeley, California.
Manoj Patnala
Rivian
Keynote: Systematizing Sustainability
Summary
Actions to combat climate change and its impact are Increasing, but what the plastics industry has
accomplished so far is not sufficient to meet ambitious carbon reduction goals. Many companies are
behind schedule on their initiatives because many current sustainable solutions are restricted by
technical limitations.
In early 2023, Braskem announced a plan to invest in an industrial-scale facility in the US to produce
100% segregated biobased polypropylene (PP) from bioethanol as part of its commitment to becoming carbon
neutral by 2050. Braskem has been commercially producing biobased polyethylene (PE) from bioethanol in
Brazil since 2010. This project will utilize Braskem's proven proprietary technology to convert
bioethanol into physically segregated bio-based PP. This investment in biobased polypropylene validates
Braskem's commitment to the North American PP industry by using well-known technology and decades of
experience to deliver sustainable PP solutions.
About the Speaker
Gustavo Lombardi is tGustavector of Business Development at Braskem America. In this role, he is
responsible for the Biobased Polypropylene project, leading the strategy globally from sourcing to
sales, including supplier and commercial partner selection and the long-term business plan for the
project. Previously, Gustavo has held various roles at Braskem, including the Market Segment Leader for
Nonwoven, Channels to Market, and Green Polyethylene for North America, He also served as the business
leader for the Colombia and Andean Region in South America, and sales in Brazil. Prior to joining
Braskem, Gustavo worked for Henkel, leading the industrial adhesives division in Brazil, and worked at
the flexible packaging division for Bemis in Brazil. Gustavo holds a bachelor's degree in Polymeric
Material Engineering from the University of Sao Carlos in Sao Paulo/Brazil. He furthered his education
by obtaining a Business Administration specialization at the University of Berkeley, California.
Matt Vandyke
General Motors
Panel Discussion: Achieving Sustainable Thermoplastic
Polyolefins Across the Value Chain
Moderated by Petya Yaneva, Ph.D., SABIC | Pravin Sitaram, Haartz Group
Panelists
Mark Lapain
Advanced Composites
Parvinder Walia
Magna
Lisa Madenjian
Dow
David Kramer
LyondellBasell
Kevin Lyons
Intevva Products
Peter Hawighorst
ISCC
Manoj Patnala
Rivian
Panel Discussion: Accelerating Sustainable Materials
Development for a Greener Future
Supplier Panelists: Advanced Composites | The Materials Group
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