Symalite™ – the lightweight solution

Symalite™ is used by Adria Mobil in various Sun Living and Adria models. But what exactly is Symalite™? A quick Google search reveals the following:

"Symalite™ is a special lightweight reinforced thermoplastic material (LWRT) that is available in both textile and panel formats and has low thermal expansion and excellent mechanical and physical properties.

Symalite™ composites are ultra-light and freely formable, but also sound-absorbing and can be directly coated with functional or decorative coverings without the use of adhesives. In panel form, the material can be used instead of plywood, fibreboard or polymer rigid foam." (translated from https://www.mcam.com/en/products/composites/glass-fiber/Symalite™)

For Adria Mobil, a manufacturer of recreational vehicles where weight plays a very important role, the weight aspect of Symalite™ is particularly important. The material is used in various parts of the construction in several series.

1a) Symalite™ replacing plywood – with foil

On the inside of the caravan or motorhome, the inner layer of the side wall construction, previously made of plywood, is replaced by Symalite™. This layer is covered with a white polypropylene (PP) foil. This application can be seen in the Sun Living A, C and S series, as well as in the Adria Coral XL and the updated Adora caravans.

1b) Symalite™ replacing plywood – with polyester

The construction is technically the same as in application 1a, but the Symalite™ is not covered with a layer of foil but with a thin layer of polyester fabric (PES). This feels a bit like felt and immediately gives a “warm” feeling. This application can be seen in two caravan series: Adria Altea and Adria Aviva Lite.

NB: PES is also used in the Sun Living V 60DL. This immediately gives this camper van a warmer look. Sounds are muffled and it also contributes to insulation, keeping the heat inside for longer.