Whirlpool Corporation
APPLIANCE LINER SYSTEM

Abstract:

An appliance liner includes a cap layer including a high-impact polystyrene and a colorant, the cap layer forming an exterior surface of the appliance liner. The appliance liner also includes a polymeric base layer including a high-impact polystyrene and positioned inwardly with respect to the cap layer to provide structural support to the cap layer; and a barrier film positioned inwardly with respect to the cap layer. The barrier film includes silk fibers within a polymer matrix to protect the cap layer from contaminant diffusion and deformation and reduce visible wrinkling in the cap layer during hot insulation filling. Methods for forming the appliance liner are also provided.