SHROPSHIRE, U.K. — According to the Thermoset Resins Market Report from Rapra Technology Ltd., the worldwide thermoset resin industry is thriving and producing lightweight, high-performance, high-quality products for an ever-expanding range of markets. Worldwide, the annual consumption of thermoset resins across the whole industrial spectrum amounts to 21.6 million tons, with industry growth rates forecast to be in excess of 2.5 percent per annum.

Key developments and trends in the applications of thermosets are indicated. One of the primary uses is as the matrix in composite materials. Composites are now accepted as high-performance engineering materials in many fields such as automotive, aerospace and marine. Adhesives and coatings are also major application areas for thermosets, and progress has been rapid. The report is available from http://www.polymer-books.com or from Publications Sales, Rapra Technology, +44 (0) 1939 250383, e-mail: publications@rapra.net.