A material selection approach to evaluate material substitution for minimizing the life cycle environmental impact of vehicles

摘要: Weight reduction is commonly adopted in vehicle design as a means for energy and emissions savings. However, selection of lightweight materials often focused on performance characteristics, which may lead to sub optimizations life cycle environmental impact. Therefore systematic material processes are needed that integrate weight optimization assessment. This paper presents such an approach its application automotive component. Materials from the metal, hybrid polymer families were assessed, along with novel self-reinforced composite potential alternative non-recyclable composites. It was shown offering highest saving offer limited benefit due demanding manufacturing. Selection preferable not straightforward process since results be sensitive critical but uncertain aspects cycle. Such need evaluated determine actual benefits base more informed choices.