HYBRAR™ SV-series, New Hydrogenated Styrenic Block Copolymers With Excellent Damping Performance

Abstract

Lately, the efforts to reduce automobile weight for added fuel efficiency has increased the problem of vibration and road noise and led to a reduction in passenger comfort and driving pleasure. The electrification of the automobile has decreased engine noise which was major noise source but other sources such as road, wind and transmission noise which were masked by the engine have become more noticeable. The demand to reduce these issues including vibration is, therefore, increasing and diversified. Damping materials, which can effectively reduce vibration and noise without significantly increasing the car weight, are being addressed as a countermeasure. Kuraray has recently developed new hydrogenated styrenic copolymers with excellent damping performance at elevated temperatures. This article describes the properties and benefits of these new materials.

About the Speaker

Dr. Shinya Oshita graduated from Osaka City University in 2006 with a Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry.  He started his professional career at Kuraray Co. Ltd in Japan, in 2006. His early assignments were focused on development of new polymer designs and applications for thermoplastic elastomers including acrylic and styrenic block copolymers.   In 2018, He transferred to Kuraray America in Houston and assumed the role of Technical Service Engineer providing technical and development support for North and South American customers.  Dr. Oshita is married with 2 children and enjoys skiing and BBQ in his spare time.