This book provides a comprehensive, systematic presentation of technical textiles for the automotive market. Each application area is examined in extensive detail. Up-to-date information is provided on materials, design, properties and performance, finishing, use trends, and market requirements for each application area. The perspective is international, with information on different material uses and trends in different regions. The presentation is clear, concise and organized for convenient access of information. The text is well illustrated with clear photographs, flow charts, diagrams and other schematics-a total of 46 illustrations. Twenty tables provide useful market and properties data in convenient form. And almost 500 references provide a guide to the international literature on this subject. This publication will be a valuable information resource for all those involved in the research, development, design, and selection of technical textiles for automotive applications. FROM THE AUTHORS' INTRODUCTION Automotive textiles is one of the most important markets in the technical textiles sector. It is estimated that the average family car contains about 12-14 kg (26.5-31 lbs) of textiles. With annual global car production for 1997/98 at around 36 million units (expected to reach 38 million units by 1999-2000), this represents a total textile fibre demand for the industry of 500,000 tons per annum....Nearly two thirds of automotive textiles are used for interior trim, that is, seat covers, roof and door liners, and carpets. The remainder goes to reinforce the tyres, hoses, safety-belts, and airbags, to insulate and dampen sound and vibration, and to filer brake fluids, lubricants and air.