The automotive industry relies on a wide range of materials, ranging from polypropylene body parts to multilayer alloy coatings on engine components, to meet stringent consumer and legal requirements.
Driving Forces for New Materials in the Automotive Industry

Environmental legislation on VOCs, chlorinated solvents and low-toxicity processes coupled with improved impact safety standards has led to the introduction of many new materials. In addition consumer demands have necessitated new methods of achieving superb cosmetic appearance and toughness with near zero reject rates.
Analytical Techniques used to Investigate Materials-Related Automotive Problems

X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Imaging Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToFSIMS) and 3DP-a surface topography technique have been used to investigate problem in areas such as Lubrication, Wear, Paint defects and Electrical component failure.
Where Surface Analysis Has Assisted Auto Manufacturers

Examples of investigations:

· Coating conformation and integrity determination

· Contamination analysis and quantification

· Improved production processes

· Component failure analysis

· 'Trouble shooting'

· Product development