One Part Tequila, One Part Plastic

Ford Motor Co. is working with Mexico’s Tequila Cuervo La Rojena SA, which produces Jose Cuervo tequila, to develop bioplastic-based automotive components from the byproducts of agave plants used in distilling the liquor.

Ford is testing composites made from agave fibers combined with plastics for possible use in various exterior and interior applications, including wiring harnesses, HVAC units and storage bins. The company says such parts would be about 15% lighter than traditional composites made from plastics and glass fibers, while reducing energy consumption and the use of petrochemicals.

Initial tests have been promising in terms of durability and aesthetic, according to the carmaker. The company also is evaluating the heat-resistant properties of the agave parts.

Cuervo, which was founded in 1795 and accounts for more than one-third of the world’s tequila sales, harvests as much as 300 tons of agave per day. The plants take at least seven years to grow, after which the hearts are roasted and ground into sap that is fermented and distilled into the liquor.

A small part of the leftover agave fibers are used as compost or sold to local artisans to make crafts and agave paper. But the bulk of the remaining byproduct material is burned or thrown away.

Citing the United Nations Environment Program, Ford says 5 billion metric tons of agricultural bio-mass waste is produced per year. The carmaker has been using plant-based materials in vehicle parts for more than 15 years. The list includes castor oil, cellulose, coconut fiber, dandelions, kenaf fiber, rice hulls, soy foam, tomato skins, wheat straw and wood.

Other innovative applications include denim and T-shirts (for interior padding and sound insulation), recycled plastic bottles (carpeting, wheel liners and shields) and old tires (seals and gaskets).