Work In Progress

Thermoplastics

Automated weaving system targets high-performance, high-volume applications

Startup WEAV3D Inc.’s technology produces highly tunable, woven lattice reinforcements for cost-effective, high-volume automotive composites and precast concrete applications.

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Work In Progress

Tow steering, Part 3: The birth of tow shearing

In-plane shearing of tows, versus in-plane bending of tows, hopes to take automated fiber placement directionality to new levels. 

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Work In Progress

Thermoplastic tapes reinforced with textile-based PAN carbon fiber

IACMI project trials inline production of thermoplastic tapes reinforced with textile-based PAN carbon fiber. 

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Molds/Tools

Invar, wire additive manufacturing expand aerocomposite tooling options

Invar facesheets and backing structures are candidates for large-format 3D printing to more quickly and efficiently produce aerostructures tooling.

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Space

Composites design helps nano-sized lunar rover hit big milestones

Developed by Carnegie Mellon University, the ultralight, composites-intensive Iris nano-rover will make its lunar debut later this year.

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Work In Progress

Flexible carbon fiber plates enable high-performance footwear

Carbitex’s flexible carbon fiber/thermoplastic composite plates use creative engineering to eliminate design compromises in athletic footwear.

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Curing

Bespoke process produces composite brake pedal every minute

Three composite materials are used to create structural composite member that meets demanding mechanical requirements.

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Work In Progress

Hybrid, large-format additive tooling: Lighter, faster, less costly molds for big parts

Additively manufactured cores, CFRP face skins produce large tools for prototype, low-volume aerostructure parts.

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Leveraging towpreg to reduce the cost of CMC

High-denier, spread-tow Nextel 610 fiber and novel alumina matrix enable AFP production of Ox-Ox ceramic matrix composites.

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Graphene

Graphene 101: Forms, properties and applications

Graphene-enhanced composites find new applications across end markets as the supply chain continues to mature. 

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