3M introduced Glass Bubbles S32HS sheet molded composites (SMCs) to help automakers achieve their goal of lightweighting. Composite parts can achieve weight reductions of up to 40% and densities of less than 1.0 g/cc. Coating Class A topcoat. The company stated that for automotive companies, this innovative design makes SMC an attractive option in automotive design.
3M's glass bubbles are a mature lightweight technology that can be used for lightweight sealants, injection molded parts and sheet molding compounds.
3M has cooperated with several car companies for many years to help reduce the weight of its automotive parts. The company has replaced traditional fillers and switched to hollow glass microspheres to reduce this category. The weight of the sheet molding compound while maintaining its strength or aesthetics.
For the first time, 3M overcomes the technical barrier of density. Compared to steel and aluminum, the company uses ultra-lightweight sheet molding compounds to increase product competitiveness and open up new directions for automotive applications.