Composite metals in the mix?

Automobile shredder operators would probably argue that they face a difficult task as it is sorting through the variety of materials used to build the average vehicle.

In the future, the task could be made even more difficult if researchers at DaimlerChrysler, Auburn Hills, Mich., successfully develop composite materials made from fused metal and plastic.

According to an article in the company's High Tech Report, "Researchers at DaimlerChrysler ... are taking a close look at hybrid materials consisting of thin, high-strength metal profiles and thermoplastics."

The "back-injection" process is described as "injecting plastic into the tool mold [so] a composite is formed in which the plastic closely surrounds the steel sheets."

The goal is to create hybrid materials that are 20 percent lighter and 20 percent cheaper than all-metal components.