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As the demand for fuel increases and supply decreases automobile manufactures continue searching for ways to make vehicles more fuel efficient.
One area of research which has already been partially implemented is the use of nanoclay additives in plastic vehicle components.
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A nanoclay particle is 1-1.5 nm thick.
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The introduction of nanoclay to traditional plastics greatly increases the overall strength of the plastic which could allow for lighter weight components or new use for plastic composites where metal components had been previously.
Each nanoclay particle has a layered or leafy structure with each layer consisting of alumina-silicate.
When mixed with a compatible material these layers separate and disperse evenly throughout to form strong ionic bonds and produce a stronger composite than the original plastic.
GM pioneered the application and production of nanoclay composites in association with Basell and Southern Clay Products, and used them in production of their 2002 GMC Safari and continues to use them on the Hummer H2.
Sources:
ACME NanoProducts | www.acmenano.com.au/how-nano-technology-works
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