A thermoplastic olefin resin composition having improved resistance to surface impacts, such as scratching, marring and gouging, is provided. The thermoplastic olefin resin comprises a blend of polyolefin alloy and polyamide components. The components have relative melt flow rates such that the polyamide component is selectively segregated toward the front of a melt flow. A compatibilizing agent is added to overcome the natural incompatibility of the polyolefin alloy and polyamide components of the resin. The thermoplastic olefin resin may further include a filler material when increased stiffness or modulus is desired.
Arthur Single - Plymouth MI Beth M. Wichterman - Ann Arbor MI Daniel Ryan Malwitz - Carleton MI Gerald Arthur Heath - Canton MI
Assignee:
Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. - Dearborn MI
International Classification:
B32B 328 A47B 9502 B29B 700
US Classification:
428192
Abstract:
Method of making an automotive latch handle intended for operation by manually pulling fingertips across a margin of the handle; it includes the steps of: a) molding a latch handle of a first essentially rigid plastic defining an area support for the margin, which plastic when fully solidified and cured has a stiffness of 0. 8-5. 8 GPa and a durometer ratio of 710,000 shore A; and b) overmolding the support area of the first plastic with a second plastic to define the margin, which margin when fully solidified and cured defines a finger gripping pad that has a stiffness of