This article discusses the advantages of polymer matrix composite for automotive application in terms of design drivers, noise, vibration, harshness efficiency, process materials property constraints, safety and reliability, design optimization, structural and appearance requirements, recyclability, and processability. It describes the properties of high-volume composites used in automotive industries. The article provides a discussion on state-of-the-art and developing technologies in automotive field.

This article provides an introduction to the concepts discussed in the articles under the Section “Recycling and Disposal of Composites” in ASM Handbook, Volume 21: Composites. This Section presents the reader the most recent developments in the open-and closed-loop recycling of polymer and metal matrix composites.