Ford, Heinz to develop tomato-based fibers car parts

Ford and Heinz have a plan to convert leftover tomato skins into car parts. According to a joint news release, scientists at both companies believe they can use tomato fibers to manufacture composite materials used for wiring brackets, or storage bins in cars instead of petroleum-based plastics.

Ford and H.J. Heinz Co. are researching the use of tomato fibers to develop a sustainable composite material in car manufacturing. Dried tomato skins could become wiring brackets or the storage bin for coins and other small items in a vehicle, the companies said on Tuesday. Ford researchers are testing the material's durability.

Ford already uses eight bio-based materials, such as carpeting and seat fabrics made with recycled cotton material. The company began a partnership with Heinz, Coca-Cola, Nike and Procter & Gamble two years ago to develop an entirely plant-based plastic.

"We are exploring whether this food processing byproduct makes sense for an automotive application," said Ellen Lee, plastics research technical specialist for Ford. "Our goal is to develop a strong, lightweight material that meets our vehicle requirements, while at the same time reducing our overall environmental impact."

"We are delighted that the technology has been validated," said Vidhu Nagpal, associate director, packaging R&D for Heinz. "Although we are in the very early stages of research, and many questions remain, we are excited about the possibilities this could produce for both Heinz and Ford, and the advancement of sustainable 100% plant-based plastics."

Ford’s commitment to reduce, reuse and recycle is part of the company’s global sustainability strategy to lessen its environmental footprint while accelerating development of fuel-efficient vehicle technology worldwide. In recent years, Ford has increased its use of recycled nonmetal and bio-based materials. With cellulose fiber-reinforced console components and rice hull-filled electrical cowl brackets introduced in the last year, Ford’s bio-based portfolio now includes eight materials in production. Other examples are coconut-based composite materials, recycled cotton material for carpeting and seat fabrics, and soy foam seat cushions and head restraints.
Last year, Ford showed off a hybrid car with an interior that used the same material as Coca-Cola’s plastic bottles.