Development of a Transparent Nanocomposite for Automobile Polymer Glazing (2012-01-0749)

A new transparent resin material developed by uniformly dispersing a nano-filler (boehmite particles, 5 nm in diameter and 197 nm long) in polycarbonate resin combines a flexural modulus of 5.9 GPa, a linear expansion coefficient of 35 ppm/K, and excellent mechanical toughness with excellent optical characteristics (transparency with 1.1% haze at 1 mm thick). These characteristics make this material highly suitable as a replacement for automotive glass that allows innovative design, a liberating sense of openness for automobiles.