Abstract
Lightweight multi-layered boards with high stiffness for the automotive interior trims were developed, which were composed of a single material. The boards were constructed in the form of substrate/core/substrate with newly developed materials. The materials which have high tensile strength and elongation were selected for the substrate materials, and those which have high compressive strength and low density were selected for the core materials. 25 types of multi-layered boards were fabricated using the selected substrate and core materials. The compatibility with the skin materials, the formability and the tensile strength and flexural strength of the specimens were evaluated. The results show that three types of multi-layered boards(Kenboard/EPP foam/Kenboard, Twintex/PP honeycomb/Twintex, Curv sheet/EPP foam/Curv sheet) are appropriate for the automotive interior trims. Considering the ease of materials supply and the economical aspect, Kenboard/EPP foam/Kenboard is thought to be the most realistic alternative.
