1. Automotive context

1.1 Metallic materials in the vehicle

A macroscopic look at the distribution of materials in the automobile of the 2000s reveals the breakdown shown in figure 1 .

To affirm this approach, we need to separate the vehicle into its three main functions: structure, trim and mechanical components.

We won't be dwelling on the trim function, or body cladding, which is the domain of organic materials, with the exception of a few mechanical functions (seat frames and adjustment, electrical equipment, fasteners, various mechanisms for which reinforcing heat treatments may be required).

The structural part of the vehicle...