Cheaper car insurance news
06/04/2011
Pineapples and bananas used in car production
Vehicles made from pineapples and bananas might be part of an eco-friendly revolution, which could be of benefit to people seeking cheap car insurance.
South American scientists have been using microscopic fibres from the fruits to create a new type of robust plastic.
They believe that the material might prove helpful when manufacturing engines and car parts in the years to come.
It is thought that motorists who drive the fruity cars won't have to make as many clams for damage caused on their car insurance policies.
Dr Alcides Leao, from Sao Paolo State University, said, "We believe that a lot of car parts, including dashboards, bumpers, side panels, will be made of nano-sized fruit fibres in the future. For one thing, they will help reduce the weight of cars, and that will improve fuel economy."
Among the range of promising natural materials are pineapple leaves and stems, coconut coir fibres and the fique plant.
While the process is relatively expensive, it doesn't require much nano-cellulose to create vast quantities of the tough plastic, according to the scientists.
Although the materials have so far been used in the manufacture of car parts, it is thought that they may also prove valuable in the production of artificial heart valves, which may also help save the lives of many cheap car insurance holders.