Auxetic materials and structures in the automotive industry: Applications and insights

Auxetic materials have gained prominence due to their ability to absorb and dissipate energy, making them valuable for enhancing safety and performance in automotive components and crash protection systems. This article aims to provide an overview of the current and potential applications of auxetic materials and structures in the automotive industry. The exploration began with an elucidation of concepts and the characteristic cellular structure of auxetic materials. It then delved into the common forms of auxetic materials, encompassing auxetic foams, auxetic composites, and auxetic textiles. Subsequently, specific applications of auxetic structural materials in the automotive realm were enumerated, such as non-pneumatic tyres, crash boxes, front bumper systems, jounce bumpers, and vehicle doors. Finally, a detailed discussion addresses the challenges and future potential of auxetic textiles in the automotive industry, with a focus on innovations like auxetic seat belt webbings, airbag fabrics, and car seat covers. The findings aim to inspire further research and development in this field.