LG Chem and Volkswagen Explore Sustainable Automotive Materials

Photo Credit: LG Chem

According to company reports, LG Chem and Volkswagen Group have signed a nonbinding memorandum of understanding to explore the development and wider use of next-generation materials for future vehicles, including lightweight plastics, composites and recycled materials.

The agreement covers potential applications of LG Chem’s acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and engineering plastics (EP) in vehicle components. The companies will assess materials designed to reduce vehicle weight and improve performance, while also considering cost-efficient solutions for automotive interiors and exteriors.

They will also explore expanded use of LG Chem’s post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials across Volkswagen Group’s brands. The collaboration includes joint research and development, feasibility studies for specific material applications, and information sharing on technology and global market trends.

LG Chem has an annual ABS production capacity of 2.35 million metric tons across its domestic and international operations. Its portfolio includes high-gloss, heat-resistant and paintless grades for applications such as side mirrors and radiator grilles.

The company said it produced white-colored PCR ABS in 2020 and is continuing to expand its recycled materials portfolio for automotive interior and exterior components. It also supplies materials such as paintless ASA and high-gloss, heat-resistant ABS for automotive applications.

Before the MOU signing, Volkswagen executives visited LG Chem’s Customer Solution Campus in Osan, South Korea, where they reviewed materials for circularity, electrification, performance and cost efficiency. They also toured LG Science Park in Seoul to learn about the group’s research and development capabilities.

Kim Sangmin, Senior Vice President and Head of LG Chem’s Petrochemicals Company, said the agreement provides a starting point for collaboration between a global automaker and a materials supplier on future mobility materials.

Source: LG Chem

SUNSHINE Spotlight: LG Chem and Volkswagen Group will assess lightweight plastics, composites and recycled materials for future vehicles, with joint research focused on performance, cost efficiency and broader use of sustainable materials.