Molex receives third party environmental claim validation for industry’s first bioplastic resin-based connector

LISLE, USA: Molex Inc. announced the Stac64-e connector for automotive applications has received third party Environmental Claims Validation (ECV). The UL Environment ECV certification confirms that the Stac64-e connector contains 71 percent bio-based content in accordance with ASTM D6866-11. Constructed of resin derived from renewable plant-based castor oil, the Stac64-e harness connector provides an alternative to traditional petroleum-based connectors while offering equivalent performance and quality characteristics.

“Global focus on the conservation of energy and natural resources has raised the bar on automotive manufacturers. The automotive industry plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainability initiatives beyond bringing consumers worldwide more choices in energy efficient gas, electric and hybrid vehicles,” states Mark Rettig, global marketing director, Molex. “A logical progression in this trend is connectors developed from renewable and plant-based resin.“

Designed to withstand harsh environments, the 20-circuit, dual-row harness Stac64-e connector has also successfully completed USCAR-2 Standard Class II validation testing for mechanical, environmental and electrical performance characteristics for unsealed connector automotive applications.

The bioplastic resin Stac64-e connector joins an existing portfolio of Molex Stac64 PCB connectors featuring a stackable, modular housing which can be ganged together into larger header assemblies, significantly reducing time-to-market by eliminating the need for custom tooling. Stac64 connectors support the needs of navigation, instrumentation, and other automotive applications.

“Driving demand for innovative automotive electronics, we see a global proliferation of factories manufacturing vehicles with an array of sustainable components. Durable bioplastic based resins offer an excellent alternative to traditional resins,” adds Rettig. “For customers interested in reducing the use of petroleum- based resins without sacrificing quality, Molex connectors constructed of bioplastic resins are a natural fit.”