Thermal Insulation and the Automobile-A Review

Thermal insulation is required to serve various functions in different areas of an automobile. The applications and the various materials, products or systems used for them will be reviewed and discussed. The criteria required for selection of an appropriate thermal insulation for each will be outlined especially with regard to temperature range, type and performance characteristics.

A review of current measurement techniques together with a discussion of the heat transmission mechanisms in insulations will be included. Various factors which influence thermal performance of insulations will be discussed and suggestions made regarding the use of improved thermal insulation concepts and systems.