A Shining Collaboration for Brilliant Metallic Effects

Partnership for Groundbreaking Metal-Effect Compounds – SAX Polymers, Tosaf Color Service, and Grässlin Kunststoffe Offer a Sustainable Alternative

Three strong partners, one common goal: A sustainable future for stunning plastic surfaces thanks to groundbreaking metallic-effect compounds. Tosaf Color Service, SAX Polymers, and Grässlin Kunststoffe are now collaborating on the development of innovative plastics that deliver long-lasting colors and brilliant metallic effects as environmentally friendly alternatives to painted or electroplated metals—without compromising on color—for high-precision molding applications across numerous industries. The single-material plastics are also recyclable and contribute to a sustainable value chain, thereby helping manufacturers of interior components for the automotive industry, for example, to reduce their carbon footprint.

Grässlin, SAX, and Tosaf Color Service will showcase the diversity and possibilities of these new plastics at KPA (Kunststoffprodukte Aktuell) on February 25–26, 2025, in Ulm.

Versatile applications and material options—no painting required

“Our collaboration with SAX and Tosaf Color Service enables us to develop unique plastic compounds as alternatives to chrome and metal that meet all sustainability and processability requirements—for brilliant metallic surfaces without the need for painting,” says Grässlin Managing Director Thomas Bücker.

Thanks to advanced pigment technology, the new compounds minimize segregation, streaking, and color variations—making them ideal for designs and complex 3D geometries in the automotive industry. They can be produced using a wide variety of plastics, including PC/ABS, PA/ABS, PMMA, PET, PE/PP, and PC. In any case, the more transparent the material, the more intense the color brilliance and depth effect.

Background: Tosaf Color Service is a globally recognized specialist in additive and effect masterbatches. These high-quality pigments are not only sustainable but also cost-effective. SAX Polymers uses these pigments and its many years of expertise in compounding to develop unique plastics. And together with Grässlin—a reliable sales partner with a strong network spanning numerous industries—the company creates custom products with brilliant metallic finishes: automotive parts, consumer goods, furniture, and toys.