Auto parts maker Magna Exteriors and Interiors is partnering with The Centre for Research and Innovation in the Bio-Economy on a project to integrate wood fibre in auto parts. According to Pulp & Paper Canada, Magna plans to develop high-volume process and product technology that integrates wood fibres from Northern Ontario and Canadian-sourced pulp into its automotive parts.
Currently, Magna moulds a number of components and sub-systems using long glass filled polypropylene (LGFPP) for global automotive manufacturers. In certain applications glass fibre can be substituted with wood fibre. Once initial testing is complete, the goal will be to increase percentages of wood fibre for further optimized performance.
A Canadian pulping company will be chosen as a technical advisor to support the development of processed wood fibres.
