The 80,000 seats of the National Stadium, the architectural centerpiece of the 2008 Olympics and also known as the "Bird's Nest" for its distinct structure, have been installed on the stands, the Beijing Organizing Committee (BOCOG) said.

Made of modified polypropylene, the seats have shown excellent performance in flexural strength and impact strength tests, and the colors of the seats will remain fade-resistant for three years under ultraviolet radiation, according to the construction company.

The opening and closing ceremonies of the August 8-24 Olympics as well as the track and field competitions will take place in the National Stadium, which is scheduled to be completed in April.

(Xinhua News Agency January 30, 2008)