Lightweighting for Commercial Trucks and Trailers

The Challenge

Reducing weight in transportation can increase safety, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions. According to the American Chemistry Council, plastic components make up 50 percent of a vehicle’s volume, but only 10 percent of its weight. One respected truck manufacturer chose Avient to help them reach their lightweight goals.

The Solution

This customer used Polystrand™ continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) tapes and laminates in the trailer space of their heavy truck applications. These tapes and laminates combined high strength, unidirectional fibers and engineered thermoplastic resins to help reduce weight while maintaining exceptional strength and impact resistance.

The Impact

Using Polystrand materials extended the life of truck trailers and reduced weight to improve fuel economy. The solution increased loading per square foot and provided a moisture and debris barrier, and because they are thermoplastic, these CFRTP materials can be more easily recycled compared to alternative materials.