August 8, 2024Fluoropolymers Explained: Basics and ApplicationsFluoropolymers enhance various applications across multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, packaging, and medical. Read more
May 2, 2024Composite 3D Printing in Aerospace and RoboticsWhile 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. Read more
April 23, 2024Optimizing Composite Laminate Design with Double-Double TheoryConventionally, 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. Read more
February 19, 2024Inside the Technology of Aircraft WindowsAt first glance, aircraft windows might appear as mere transparent barriers between passengers and the skies. However, these essential components of air travel are designed with sophisticated technologies to withstand extreme conditions, blending durability with safety and passenger comfort. Read more
November 3, 2023Confronting the Challenges of Carbon Fiber RecyclingA UNSW Canberra researcher claims to have advanced CF recycling. But major challenges remain, says one industry expert. Carbon fiber composites are super strong super lightweight and super difficult to recycle effectively. Embedded in a (usually thermoset) polymer matrix, carbon… Read more
May 31, 2023AI-Based Sensor Improves Productivity in Composites ManufacturingAVK, the Frankfurt, Germany-based Federation of Reinforced Plastics, named sensXPERT winner of its 2022 Innovation award for the Digital Mold process sensor system it developed. The company is part of Netzsch Process Intelligence GmbH, of Selb, Germany. (U.S. office is… Read more
May 27, 2023Toray Taps Advanced Databases to Develop High-Tech CFRPToray Industries of Tokyo has developed a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for advanced aerospace applications. The company leveraged materials informatics technology to swiftly achieve exceptional flame retardance and mechanical performance for the material. Materials informatics is a technique to streamline… Read more
May 27, 2023Finally! 3DP of LCPSwiss company develops technology to print liquid crystal polymers Despite the number of polymers available for 3D printing, a conspicuously absent performance family is liquid crystal polymers (LCPs). That’s changing now that a Swiss startup reports it has solved the… Read more