Use of Natural Fibres in Composites in the German and Austrian Automotive Industry—Market Survey 2002

Abstract

Abstract A survey of the use of natural fibres (exclusive of wood and cotton) in composites used in the German and Austrian automotive industry revealed an average yearly growth rate of the amount used of 22% for the period from 1999 to 2002. In 2002 a total of 17,200 tons of fibre was used, 2,200 tons of which were hemp. In comparison to a survey in 2000, a clear trend towards the use of thermoplastic rather than thermoset press-moulding techniques can be observed. For the future an increase in the use of injection moulding techniques is expected.