Sika Automotive Improves Structural Performance of Vehicles Designing SikaReinforcer(R) Solutions With Crash Simulation Models

MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., March 14 -- Sika Automotive, using computer aided crash simulation technology, provides structural solutions on vehicles by creating custom SikaReinforcer(R) designs. Through specific application modeling, SikaReinforcer(R) can improve occupant safety, reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and reduce metal fatigue. SikaReinforcer(R), developed by Chemist Chin-Jui Jerry Chang, is a thermoset, epoxy-based material developed to provide improved stiffness to hollow metal body structure sections. This product is injection moldable and non-tacky for ease of handling and installation.

Because SikaReinforcer(R) can be modeled with crash simulation software, injection molded, complex three-dimensional parts, can be produced and implemented very quickly. The performance of the initial SikaReinforcer(R) designs is evaluated by using crash simulation software that simulates the forces that will be experienced during an actual vehicle collision. As a result, these part designs can be quickly optimized to deliver the best combination of performance and cost, while reducing the overall lead-time from initial concept to full-scale production.

"SikaReinforcer(R) is an innovative, cost-effective structural solution for automakers," said Kevin Casey, Vice President of Marketing for Sika. "With our ability to simulate and model structural applications of SikaReinforcer(R), we provide an optimized solution that offers our customers increased vehicle crash performance, reduced mass as compared to alternative solutions and speed to market."

Sika Automotive, based in Madison Heights, MI, a division of Sika Corporation, is an industry leader in the development and production of high performance acoustic, bonding, reinforcing and sealing systems. Sika Automotive provides automobile manufacturers with proven material, application engineering and validation expertise to improve interior sound quality and structural performance in vehicles worldwide. Sika Automotive optimizes cost effective, complete solutions in its dedicated, state of the art, Acoustic Test Facility, located in Madison Heights, MI. Visit the Sika Automotive website www.sika-automotive.com .

Sika Corporation is a leading supplier of specialty chemical products and industrial materials serving construction and industrial markets including transportation, marine, and automotive. Sika Corporation is a subsidiary of Sika AG, Baar, Switzerland. Sika has annual sales of approximately US$1.5 billion (CHF 2.2 billion), over 8000 employees and operations in more than 60 countries. Visit the Sika website at www.sika.com .