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Huntsman is a global leader in polyurethane technology for automotive applications and recognizes the use of bio-based materials as a key element of many OEM's sustainability strategies. The use of soy-based polyols in polyurethane foams was investigated for use in acoustical applications such as dash insulators and carpet underlayment. The base polyol in a typical acoustical foam was replaced with one of several soy-based polyols available on the market and tested for physical and acoustical properties. The foams were also evaluated as to the effect the soy-based polyol had on processing characteristics. The base polyol was replaced with 10% and 20% of the soy-based polyol. These foams showed some degradation of physical properties. The effect of the soy-based polyol on acoustical properties was index and frequency dependent. Some acoustical properties increased while others decreased.

While fabric backcoatings comprise a relatively small part of the cost of a fabric, it is believed they have a profound affect on interior trim manufacturing processes. This study used the results of tests done on 105 fabrics to determine the effect that backcoatings have on a fabric's processing characteristics. Five tests were used to determine the processing characteristics of the fabric. The results showed that backcoatings do indeed have an affect on a fabric's processing capabilities. The results also suggest that the interaction between fabric construction and backcoating needs to be explored in greater detail.