Aerospace

Microencapsulation enhances the performance of additives in a variety of plastics applications. This technology is invaluable for incorporating additives that possess explosive properties, are challenging to handle, exhibit high reactivity, or are PCMs. 

Abdul Baghirov pioneers a transformative method to integrate hair fibers into Kevlar aerogels. It offers enhanced filtration efficiency and sustainable solutions to combat environmental challenges due to human hair waste.

While 3D printing with polymers and metals has dominated discussions, composites have quietly emerged as a significant player in additive manufacturing (AM). Combining the strength of metals with the lightness of polymers, composite materials are reshaping the landscape of 3D printing, particularly in fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology.

PEEK glass fiber composite crystallization undergoes a critical transformation when subjected to conditions of high undercooling and intense shear.

The future of material research is increasingly changing toward digitization, which promises advantages but requires significant work and adaptability. While initial trends emerge, development varies between material classes due to variations in synthesis, production, analysis, and modeling techniques.

Non-planar 3D printing, also known as curved layer 3D printing or non-planar slicing, marks a significant evolution in the field of additive manufacturing.

Conventionally, laminate designs have adhered to standard ply orientations such as 0, 90, and ±45°, often constrained by symmetry requirements. However, a paradigm shift has emerged with the introduction of the double-double laminates concept, offering a more efficient and tailored approach to composite design.

Four-dimensional (4D) printing, an extension of 3D printing, incorporates the dimension of time into the fabrication process, enabling the creation of structures that can change shape in response to external stimuli.

Plastics have evolved beyond their ubiquitous presence in everyday products to become intelligent. The fusion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is launching the era of “smart plastics.” These materials aim to revolutionize the functionality and efficiency of plastics in healthcare, automotive, and consumer products.

New resins lacking thermal measurements may face challenges in meeting regulatory standards and entering the market. However, the use of AI can streamline the introduction of these resins by potentially halving the time needed for testing and regulatory approvals.

4D printing is an evolution in the manufacturing process that incorporates the dimension of time into 3D printing.

More manufacturers are turning to additive manufacturing to ensure consistent outcomes. But many may not fully grasp how or why they should incorporate it into their processes. If you’re continuously hitting roadblocks, production is slow, or you’re stuck with outdated technologies, additive manufacturing offers solutions. Utilizing it can help your processes by producing complex parts, reducing material waste, customizing products, boosting supply chain efficiencies, and enabling low-volume production.