ÂÌñÏ×ÆÞ

The wind energy market has long been considered the world’s largest market, by volume, for glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites — and increasingly, carbon fiber composites — as larger turbines and longer wind blades are developed, requiring higher performance, lighter weight materials. The outer skins of wind and tidal turbine blades generally comprise infused, GFRP laminates sandwiching foam core. Inside the blade, rib-like shear webs bonded to spar caps reinforce the structure. Spar caps are often made from GFRP or, as blade lengths lengthen, pultruded carbon fiber for additional strength.

According to the annual and Q1 2023 market reports, more than 25 GW of new clean power was installed, marking it the third highest year for the U.S.; however, several hurdles are delaying 60+ GW through early 2023. 

CW senior technical editor Ginger Gardiner discusses latest developments in composites from this year’s show.

CW technical editor Hannah Mason shares sustainability-focused composites trade show highlights featuring maturation, scale-up, new partnerships, and new technologies in biomaterials and recycling. 

Toray Advanced Composites, Horizon Aircraft, Skydweller Aero, BYK, North Thin Ply Technology and Crisalion Mobility have made new appointments related to the composites industry.

Technical support and materials from MEL Composites enhances the lightweight, zero-emission capabilities of Zen Yacht’s 15.7-meter boat.

Stephen Heinz, vice president of R&I for Syensqo delivered an inspirational keynote at SAMPE 2024, highlighting the significant role of composite materials in emerging technologies and encouraging broader collaboration within the manufacturing community. 

Three materials — bio-based carbon fibers, natural stone and biochar — act as an alternative to reinforced concrete in a house wall demonstrator in the DACCUS-Pre project.

Sustainability roadmap is anticipated to reduce production-related emissions by more than 45% by 2030.

San Diego-based 2024 Top Shops qualifier Rock West Composites gives an overview of its relentless commitment to improvement, including its composite capabilities and its role as a trusted player in the space market.

ISO14001 and ISO45001 endorse commitment to sustainability principles at an organizational and industry level for Sigmatex’s carbon fiber products, as well as a focus on safety and employee health.