Bayer MaterialScience LLC at the ITB Automotive Cockpit and Door Modules Conference: High Pressure Forming Plastic Film Offers Increased Center Stack Functionality

Birmingham, MI, October 17, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Consumers are increasingly looking for vehicles that integrate the newest technologies into the center stack – the console between the driver and passenger seats where many dashboard controls, such as audio and temperature, are located. Automotive designers and engineers are challenging developers of materials and process technology to help meet these requirements and enhance functionality during the driving experience.

Douglas Stratton, Functional Film Business Development, Bayer MaterialScience LLC, will focus on solutions to these material and process challenges during his presentation, “New Concepts for Vehicle Integrated Center Stack Design, Material & Process Technology.” The presentation took place at 2:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 7 during the ITB Automotive Cockpit and Door Modules Conference in Birmingham, Mich.

During his presentation, Stratton discussed a Bayer concept center stack created by high pressure forming (HPF) Makrofol® HF 278 G-4 polycarbonate film. HPF, a method developed by Bayer, allows plastic film to be formed at lower temperatures, with sharp forming edges and no top surface contact. HPF helps prevent distortion in printing, allowing for more accurate positioning of imprinted motifs. The process also allows for the integration of light diffusing technology, back panel lighting and the use of printed electronics in the stack design. Stratton will discuss the HPF process, as well as some of its other potential applications, such as speedometer dials and HVAC panels.

In a concept study, Makrofol® HF 278 G-4 was UV-cured and coated with Pröll’s NORILUX DC-3 formable Dual-Cure-Lacquer, providing the center stack with superior scratch resistance, good formability, high chemical resistance and high gloss. Makrofol® polycarbonate light diffusing film was also incorporated into the stack concept, which provided high performance aspects such as brightness, transmittance and processability for the integrated LCD backlight module. Makrofol® LM 292, a grade engineered for black panel technology applications in automotive vehicles, will also be discussed.

Stratton also discussed the incorporation of capacitive switches utilizing Artificial Muscle Inc.’s ViviTouchTM actuator, enabling high fidelity touch feedback, making the switch feel like a real button.

“As drivers demand increasingly innovative and attractive vehicles, center stack consoles will continue to integrate high levels of functionality with precision and elegance,” said Stratton. “This concept stack offers a comprehensive view of the materials Bayer has available for automotive designers and engineers.”

About Bayer MaterialScience LLC:
Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with approximately 14,700 employees at 30 production sites around the world and 2010 sales of 10.2 billion euros. The company manufactures high-tech polymer materials and develops innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries. Sustainability is central to Bayer MaterialScience LLC’s business and is based around the key areas of innovation, product stewardship, excellence in corporate management, social responsibility and respect for the environment.

This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer Group or subgroup management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer’s public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

###