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A compression stress relaxation test method consistent with IS0 6056 has been developed for evaluating sealant materials. The reproducibility of the method has been evaluated on two types of commercial testing equipment. Two case studies are presented demonstrating usefulness of the test. The first case study shows how compression stress relaxation can be used to diagnose seal failure. The second demonstrates the usefulness of the test in product development.

The basics of Structural RIM processing for high volume applications are discussed, and several developments which impact the costs and efficiency of this process are described. These developments include flow characterization and modelling, glass handling techniques and venting techniques and systems containing internal mold release.

An historical overview of the use of composites in the automotive industry is given with emphasis given to the advantages and limitations of particular processes for various applications. Structural RIM is described as a process which combines high productivity with controlled, predictable part properties. After the materials are briefly described, some new studies which investigate what is actually occurring in the mold during the Structural RIM process are discussed. Some early results of these studies are analyzed and areas of future study with the tools of this investigation are outlined.