Thermoplastics and thermoplastic–matrix composites for lightweight automotive structures

Abstract This chapter discusses the properties, processing methods, and design issues for thermoplastics and thermoplastic–matrix composites used for automotive applications. It starts with a brief review of the important characteristics of thermoplastic polymers, differences in design considerations for metals and thermoplastics, and injection molding process, the most common manufacturing method for producing thermoplastic parts in the automotive industry. It then discusses the properties and processing of various thermoplastic–matrix composites reinforced with short fibers, long fibers, glass mat, glass fabric, unidirectional fibers, self-reinforcement, natural fibers, and nanoreinforcements. It also describes various joining methods commonly used for thermoplastic–matrix composite parts.