Natural Fibers
Graphene: Ready for prime time?
Advanced materials analyst Ross Kozarsky (Lux Research, Boston, Mass.) evaluates the commercial readiness of graphene-based nanomaterial reinforcements for the composites industry.
Read More
Interior innovation: The value proposition
OEMs and Tier suppliers ask materials and molding processes to go “green” and do more for less.
Read More
Metal-matrix composites used to lighten military brake drums
Century Inc.'s combination metal-matrix composite (MMC)/aluminum brake drum is a lightweight alternative to cast iron and steel brake drums in military vehicles.
Read More
Bio-based fillers: Reducing SMC mass
The Bio-Lite Technical Center of Excellence at the National Composites Center (Dayton, Ohio) is developing sheet molding compound (SMC) recipes capable of yielding finished parts with specific gravity as low as 1.2.
Read More
ECO Elise concept: Lean, speedy and green
Focus on use of sustainable materials and cleaner manufacturing processes promises future Lotus customers “almost-guilt-free” performance.
Read More
Researchers nano-enhance natural fiber
Mississippi State University uses nanoparticle impregnation to improve the performance of kenaf fiber in composites.
Read MoreNew metal coating to optimize composite tooling
Near the end of its development cycle, this nanostructured metal overlay promises to extend the working life and improve the cost-effectiveness of carbon/epoxy tooling.
Read More