What comes to mind when you think of bus stops? Do you recall sweating under the scorching sun during hot summer days or shivering in the cold winter while waiting at a bus stop? Seoul City has recognized the inconveniences associated with bus shelters and has been working on transforming them into “Smart Shelters” equipped with features like heating and cooling. Starting in 2021, they initiated a pilot project by creating Smart Shelters at various locations such as Sungnyemun Gate, Hongdae, Hapjeong, and Songpa. LG Chem has also contributed to these Smart Shelters. How exactly is LG Chem involved with the Smart Shelters in Seoul City?

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From Cooling Systems to Eco-friendly Energy,
Cutting-edge Transportation Service: Smart Shelters

Smart Shelters represent an advanced transportation service. In 2020, Seoul City conducted a public opinion survey regarding public transportation and confirmed the   need for Smart Shelters to enhance convenience for citizens. These Smart Shelters are equipped with various features, including an air quality monitoring system, air purification sterilizers, cooling and heating systems, and screen doors. Notably, the environmentally friendly aspect of Smart Shelters has garnered attention. They are equipped with solar panels, allowing for the direct production and utilization of eco-friendly energy. The materials used in Smart Shelters are also noteworthy.  

The screens of Smart Shelters are made from recycled polycarbonate, as indicated by the statement, “This screen is made from recycled polycarbonate.” What exactly is recycled polycarbonate, also known as PCR PC? How did LG Chem apply PCR PC to Smart Shelters?

PCR PC: 200 Times Stronger Than Glass, Half the Carbon Emissions

PCR PC (Polycarbonate), utilized in smart shelters, is an advanced engineering plastic that serves as a viable alternative to metals. It boasts exceptional impact resistance, heat resistance, and outstanding transparency, making it a versatile material for various applications. LG Chem is dedicated to producing PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) materials, which involve recycling plastics used by consumers, including PCR PC. LG Chem collaborates with specialized suppliers to source PCR PC raw materials, applying their extensive compound expertise. This enables LG Chem to deliver high-quality PCR PC materials, leveraging their extensive technological experience. (Click here to learn more about the development story of PCR PC.)

The developed PCR PC has been applied to the Smart Shelter project. LG Chem’s PCR PC, in particular, is an excellent transparent material with outstanding quality, making it highly suitable for Smart Shelters. There are several advantages to using PCR PC instead of glass in Smart Shelters. Firstly, it exhibits superior impact resistance compared to glass, being approximately 200 times stronger. Additionally, it has significantly lower carbon emissions during production compared to conventional materials, at about half the level. In today’s environmentally conscious world, PCR PC is gaining attention for its eco-friendly attributes. Smart Shelters utilizing LG Chem’s PCR PC have been installed not only at locations such as Sungnyemun Gate, Hongdae, Hapjeong, and Songpa in Korea, but also along Magok-daero in Gangseo-gu. While other companies typically apply PCR content up to 30-35%, LG Chem’s PCR PC maintains consistent properties and appearance even with PCR content ranging from 50% to over 85%. This is attributed to its high technological capabilities and quality. For the current Smart Shelter project, a PCR content of 60% has been applied.

Jong-Ik Lee, a Specialist member of LG Chem’s Engineering Materials division, who led the Smart Shelter project, expressed his pride and gratitude upon seeing the signage that reads “This screen is made of recycled polycarbonate,” along with the LG Chem logo and the LETZero logo near Sungnyemun Gate, where he resides. He appreciates the attention and interest shown by some citizens.

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LG Chem, actively embracing sustainable practices and caring for the planet, aims to showcase their LG Chem and LETZero logos not only in Smart Shelters but also in various aspects of our daily lives. If you come across the LG Chem and LETZero logos in Smart Shelters, please remember the story of PCR PC shared today. LG Chem remains dedicated to a sustainable environment and a better future. LG Chem will continue to work hard for you and the planet.

– Proofread by Jong-Ik Lee, Specialist at LG Chem Phoenix TDR.