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Polymeric Materials
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Polymeric Materials
The use of polymers (plastics) in motor vehicles has been increasing steadily in recent years. Although there are benefits for vehicle weight, fuel economy, styling and other features, the increased use of polymers also means more fuels in the vehicle environment. One trade journal provided the following summary of polymer use for 1996 model vehicles.
| Polymer type | Abbreviation | Usage | Average Wt (lb/’96 car) |
| Polyurethane | PU | Body panels, fenders, bumpers, headliners, upholstery | 44 lb |
| Polypropylene | PP | HVAC, fan & shroud, battery tray, cowl, ducts, IP, package shelf | 40 |
| Polyvinyl Chloride | PVC | Bumper trim, electrical wiring, boots, bellows, seat cover, steering wheels, floor | 21 |
| Polyethylene | PE | Fuel tank, bumper, electrical wiring, reservoir, fuel filler | 20 |
| Nylon | PA | Fuel system, fuel lines, gas cap, grill | 18 |
| Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene | ABS | Bumper, fascia, headliner, duct | 16 |
References
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