U.S. FRP: Modest Economic Gains Could Mean Expansion of Niche Markets A hard look at the data may indicate it could be that time in the natural cycle of any industry to start really exploring new markets for composite materials. By Phil Bridges

Global Advanced Composites: Industrial Applications Will Lead This Year’s Charge
A much-needed turnaround for carbon fiber is expected to begin in 2004 and increase slowly toward the end of the decade when several key programs are expected to hit full production.
By Bill Benjamin and Chris Red

Europe: Wind, Automobiles, Aircraft Will Drive European Market
Pressure from environmentalists will stir wind industry and thermoplastic materials.
By Brent Strong and John Green

Pacific Rim, Asia & India: Soon to Dominate?
Offset product lines key growth for advanced composites while traditional FRP is dominated by corrosion applications.
By Scott Beckwith

Marine: Boat Builders Increase Output for Promising Year
Increased customer demand and higher profitability will mark strong year for the marine industry.
By Scott Lewit, Keith Johnson, and Joe Vaes

2004 Wish List
Industry guru and ACMA Technical Services Director Bob Lacovara challenges the entire industry to step up with several key recommendations.
By Bob Lacovara

Regulatory Affairs: MACT is the Hot Button Issue
Regulatory expert and ACMA Senior Director of Government Affairs John Schweitzer lays out what the government expects from the industry this year as it marches toward MACT compliance in 2006.
By John Schweitzer

Civil Infrastructure: Strength and Repair
The overwhelming consensus from experts in this industry segment is that 2004 will be a positive year.
By Scott Reeve

Congress: Election Years Limit Industry-Relevant Legislation
Historically, election years give Congress attention deficiency disorder. As a result, much legislation goes unattended.
By Ken Odette

Columns

ACMA Up Front
CF publisher and ACMA Executive Director Missy Henriksen preps the industry for ACMA’s Silver Anniversary Award.

E&I Awards
CF puts the finishing touches on 2003’s Excellence & Innovation Awards with the final winners: Bob Connor of Blue Hawaiian Pools and the RTR Group.