Need For Environmentally Friendly Surface Modification Technology In The Japanese Automotive Industry

Abstract

The environmental impact of the automotive industry needs to be addresses if it is to remain a viable mode of transport in the 21st century. There are a number of areas where the adverse environmental effects of car production and use can be reduced. These include reduction in waste from the production process, improving fuel efficiency, reducing CO₂ emissions, and recycling car parts after use. This paper describes some of the environmental regulations being introduced and particularly focuses on the environmental factors regarding surface modification technologies in the automotive industry. The ways in which current surface finishing practices can be improved to reduce the environmental impact are described along with the ways in which surface technologies can be used to enhance the performance of lightweight materials for use in fuel efficient vehicles. The need to develop new surface technologies to find replacements for environmentally harmful materials is also highlighted.