🎙️ Podcast Description:
In this episode, we explore Polypropylene Carbon Fibre (PP-CF) compounds as an advanced composite material that combines the lightweight nature and processability of polypropylene with the reinforcing properties of carbon fibre. These compounds exhibit superior mechanical, thermal, and electrical characteristics compared to pure polypropylene, making them suitable for a diverse range of applications, including the automotive, electrical, and appliance sectors.

The discussion highlights Autotech-Sirmax as a key producer, offering tailored PP-CF grades and addressing challenges like cost and processing wear through optimised formulations. Ultimately, PP-CF is presented as a cost-effective and high-performance alternative to traditional materials like glass-filled PP and metals.

Tune in to discover how this innovative material is shaping the future of lightweight, durable, and efficient product design!

Mineral-filled polypropylene (PP) is a pivotal materials technology that significantly enhances performance in both the automotive and electrical & electronics (E&E) sectors by combining base PP polymer matrices with inorganic mineral fillers. Key fillers like talc, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), mica, and wollastonite are incorporated at 10-50% by weight, fundamentally improving properties such as stiffness, heat deflection temperature (HDT), and dimensional stability, while reducing the coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE). For automotive applications, these compounds meet stringent demands for low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, scratch resistance, and thermal performance (HDT >80°C). In E&E applications, they provide essential flame retardancy (UL 94 V-0/V-2 ratings), high comparative tracking index (CTI >400V), and glow wire resistance up to 750°C. While offering substantial property gains, mineral-filled PP requires careful formulation due to trade-offs between stiffness and impact strength, and specific processing adjustments like modified temperature profiles (400-525°F or 204-274°C) to manage density increases and warpage. Future trends for 2025-2028 include hybrid mineral systems, integration of recycled content, halogen-free flame retardants, and AI-assisted processing optimisation to further enhance sustainability and performance. Autotech-Sirmax India Pvt. Ltd. (ASIPL) is highlighted as a leading authority in the Indian compounding sector, notable for being the first to launch PP compounding in India and possessing a substantial annual capacity exceeding 60,000 metric tons, serving major industries with advanced and sustainable solutions.

This podcast would focus on Long Glass Fibre Reinforced Polypropylene (PPLFT or LFPP), an advanced thermoplastic compound that is revolutionising various industries, particularly the automotive sector. Tune in to uncover the technical and commercial advantages making PPLFT a game-changer in modern engineering!

In this debut episode of The Compounding Experts, we explore why leading OEMs across sectors—Electricals, Automotive, Appliances, and more—consistently trust Tipco Group and Autotech-Sirmax for their plastic material needs. From world-class thermoset molding compounds to cutting-edge engineering thermoplastics, this episode breaks down the technical strengths, application-specific advantages, and decades-long expertise that position our group as the preferred material partner for performance, reliability, and innovation.

Whether you're a product designer, sourcing head, or just curious about what sets us apart—this is your inside look into the materials powering tomorrow’s products.