Kiyosu, Japan, October 28, 2014: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd. has developed the world’s first^* “lacquer black plating” technology for plastics. This new technology adds a lustrous, jet-black color to the metallic brilliance of plating.

Up to now this effect has been achieved with the use of a clear smoke coating applied after the plating process. This had disadvantages, however: the clear coating deteriorates over time, decreasing the shine, and it could be chipped or damaged by flying gravel. For the new process, Toyoda Gosei took advantage of its materials technology to develop a novel plating solution. The result is the new lacquer black plating, which increases the darkness of the color sensation by about 30% compared with the existing dark plating (difference in the L-value, an indicator of color brightness).

Toyoda Gosei’s existing plastic plating variations include chrome-like neutral plating, aluminum-like satin plating and dark plating. These variations satisfy a wide range of design needs, but the growing demand for black plating to meet the needs of increasingly popular sporty vehicle design led the company to develop lacquer black plating.

Lacquer black plating will first be used on the radiator grille of the Lexus RC F, launched in October 2014. It is set to be used on products from other manufacturers as well.

* According to Toyoda Gosei survey in October 2014

Lacquer black plating used on the external frame of the Lexus RC F radiator grille

Plating variations

Established in 1949 and headquartered in Kiyosu, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, Toyoda Gosei is a leading specialty manufacturer of rubber and plastic automotive parts and LEDs. Today, the Toyoda Gosei group provides a variety of high-quality products internationally, with a network of approximately 100 plants and offices in 18 countries and regions. Through its flexible, integrated global supply system and leading-edge technologies for automotive safety, comfort, and environmental protection, Toyoda Gosei aims to be a truly global supplier that delivers the highest levels of satisfaction to customers worldwide.