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Johnson Controls, the leading manufacturer of automotive seating systems and components globally, is bringing the third generation of its reduced-emissions polyurethane foam to market. Depending on the specification, the foam registers up to 90 percent fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) than ten years ago. Johnson Controls also has significantly reduced the quantity of material impurities and their associated odors in the foam.
Johnson Controls has been the technology leader in the research, development and production of low-emission foam for vehicle seating for the past 15 years. The latest product of this research is now coming to market. “Our aim is material substitution with low-emission materials suitable for series production, without altering the unique properties of polyurethane foams such as durability and stiffness,” said Ingo Fleischer, group vice president and general manager product group foam at Johnson Controls Automotive Seating. “Ultimately, innovations like our latest low emission foam lead to cleaner and healthier air in the vehicle interior.”
“We continually and systematically examine and test all new materials solutions and technologies on the market in close cooperation with our material supplier. Based on the results, we adapt the production process to maximize the potential of a new material for emission reduction,” Fleischer added. “Foam plays an incremental part for the seat in terms of comfort and gives the seat’s cushion and back its shape. Based on an average foam volume of 0.25 m3 (approx. 8.83 ft³) in a car seat, this optimized formulation supports our efforts to contribute to a cleaner and healthier interior environment.”
Taking the lead in research into low-emission foam development is Johnson Controls’ Technical Center in Strasbourg, France. Cooperating with Johnson Controls’ Research and Development Centers in Plymouth, Mich., U.S., and Shanghai, China, the Strasbourg team creates solutions for the global market that significantly exceed the strict emission requirements of global OEMs. Production of the latest low-emission foam takes place at the company’s facilities in Europe and China. A third location in the U.S. is planned.
“Over the years, we have been able to improve not only the foam material but also the production processes, testing methods and our overall expertise,” said Fleischer.
Besides the 90-percent reduction in VOCs, Johnson Controls has successfully reduced the odor-generating impurities and aldehydes to an absolute minimum.
About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 150,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and seating components and systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful.
About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience
Johnson Controls Automotive Experience is a global leader in automotive seating components and systems. The company supports all major automakers in the differentiation of their vehicles through its products, technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. With more than 200 locations worldwide, Johnson Controls is where its customers need it to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort and style of Johnson Controls products, from single components to complete seat systems. With its global capability the company supplies more than 50 million cars per year. Johnson Controls pursues a spin-off of its Automotive Experience business. Following the separation, which is expected to take effect October 1, 2016, the Automotive Experience business will operate as the independent, publicly traded company Adient. Bruce McDonald will serve as the chairman and CEO of the new company.
For more information, please contact:
Johnson Controls GmbH
Automotive Seating
Industriestraße 20–30
51399 Burscheid
Germany
Lars Boelke
Tel.: +49 2174 65-1117
E-Mail: lars.boelke@jci.com
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