Thermoplastics
Thermoplastics play a pivotal role in composite materials by serving as the matrix phase that binds reinforcements together. Unlike thermoset resins, thermoplastics possess the ability to soften and reform when heated, allowing for reshaping and recycling. They offer unique advantages such as high toughness, chemical resistance, and easy processing, making them versatile in various industries like aerospace, automotive, and consumer goods. Composites using thermoplastic matrices exhibit exceptional damage tolerance and are sought after for their potential in complex manufacturing processes like injection molding, enabling efficient production of intricate and high-performance parts.
Latest Thermoplastics Articles
VIEW ALLWickert press advances Chemnitz polymers, composites and metals research
Since its installation, the rapid heating/cooling press has become of great importance to the Institute for Lightweight Structures’ work in processing high-performance structural and hybrid components for industrial-scale applications.
Read MoreRecycled carbon fiber composite panels power 40% lighter, durable semi-rigid solar panels
Designed for auxiliary power use while traveling via boat or RV, Italian startup Levante’s custom flexible or standardized semi-rigid solar panels combine the benefits of ReCarbon’s rCF and thermoplastics.
WatchLehvoss Group expands reach of compounds, structural composites portfolio
Strategic partnership with PolySource will bring Lehvoss’ high-value materials to North American customers and expand PolySource’s technical capabilities.
Read MoreEngel supports composites upcycling research at TH Rosenheim
Engel Group has provided the Rosenheim University of Applied Sciences with a vertical injection molding machine for further R&D into the processing of thermoplastic, recyclable composites and the application of natural fibers.
Read MoreDiehl Aviation matures recyclable composite Eco Bin
Overhead baggage compartment using only fiber-reinforced thermoplastics, metal hardware and no adhesives wins Crystal Cabin Award, supports circular aircraft interiors.
WatchDaher celebrates Shap’in anniversary, highlights R&D developments
Two years after its launch, Daher’s technology center has been actively pursuing its ambitions to mature aerocomposites, from thermoplastics welding to rethinking their entire life cycle.
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The composites industry is increasingly recognizing the imperative of sustainability in its operations. As demand for lightweight and durable materials rises across various sectors, such as automotive, aerospace, and construction, there is a growing awareness of the environmental impact associated with traditional composite manufacturing processes.
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During CW Tech Days: Thermoplastics for Large Structures, experts explored the materials and processing technologies that are enabling the transition to large-part manufacturing.
LEARN MORELatest Thermoplastics News And Updates
Boeing, U.S. senator emphasize importance of thermoplastic composites in Senate Commerce hearing
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg and Senator Maria Cantwell emphasize the need to invest in these material technologies for aviation, work that is already being contributed to by the AAMMC Tech Hub test bed and training center.
Read MoreFrench players form Composites TP Team for TPC advancement
This five-member team strives to support manufacturers of all sectors in the move toward thermoplastic composites (TPC), enabling them to benefit from a single point of access to comprehensive and integrated services.
Read MoreAvient Design sponsors mentorship program with Georgia Tech
Successful initiative introduced and guided undergraduate design students in the development of practical sport product concepts using Polystrand TPC materials.
Read MoreAvient TPC panels support Resia Manufacturing building assembly
Prefabricated, modular components for multi-family housing now incorporate Avient’s Hammerhead panel solutions for bathroom and kitchen module interior wall systems.
Read MoreROAD TRHYP to maximize hydrogen tank transport capabilities
European consortium aims to develop an innovative hydrogen trailer to improve the amount of hydrogen gas transported using Type 5 thermoplastic composite tanks.
Read MoreFIBIAS++ project targets recycled TPC innovations for automotive applications
Project led by the IRT Jules Verne and supported by Compositec, Stellantis, IMT Nord Europe and CMO seeks to develop composites with a low CO2 footprint and recycled material incorporation.
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The AAMMC Tech Hub: Ramping U.S. production of large thermoplastic composite aerostructures
CW talks with Syensqo, Spirit AeroSystems and other consortia members about current funding, specification of the next world’s largest press, organizational structure and projects to support U.S. companies in the race to deliver >40,000 sustainable and efficient aircraft over the next 20 years.
Read MoreJEC World 2025 highlights: New thermoplastics, PI fiber, solutions for FR, machining, digitized processes and more
CW senior technical editor Ginger Gardiner discusses latest developments in composites from this year’s show.
WatchPlant tour: Collins Aerospace, Riverside, Calif., U.S. and Almere, Netherlands
Composite Tier 1’s long history, acquisition of stamped parts pioneer Dutch Thermoplastic Components, advances roadmap for growth in thermoplastic composite parts.
Read MoreVIDEO: Installing the world’s largest thermoplastic composites press at Airbus Bremen
At JEC World 2025, Pinette PEI detailed its latest turnkey system for future aircraft serial parts production.
WatchComposite bipolar plates provide 81% improvement to hydrogen fuel cell power density
Hycco’s development of ultra-thin CFRTP bipolar plates achieve 7.5 kilowatt/kilogram power density while maintaining high durability for heavy-mobility fuel cell applications.
Read MoreA legacy of innovation in advanced thermoplastic composites
ATC Manufacturing, a 2024 Top Shops honoree, enables high-rate aerospace production with sustainable, lightweight and durable thermoplastic composite solutions.
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