The RE-CELL project proposes a comprehensive approach to developing multifunctional structural composites capable of energy storage for non-critical aeronautical applications. The project is rooted in the recycling and valorization of carbon fiber waste through solvolysis, promoting environmental sustainability and circular economy principles. Recovered fibers are functionalized with conductive materials such as carbonaceous particles and MXenes, enabling them to serve as both structural reinforcement and electrodes. Solid electrolytes are produced by incorporating thermally stable ionic liquids and BaTiO₃ as a dielectric enhancer into a polycarbonate matrix via extrusion. The resulting films function simultaneously as electrolytes and separators. Finally, the structural cells are assembled by compression molding and subjected to mechanical (tensile, flexural, delamination) and electrochemical (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry) characterization. The project aims to scale up the most promising multifunctional laminates and validate their performance through a demonstrator based on the geometry of an actual aircraft fuselage component.
Abstract The RE-CELL project proposes a comprehensive approach to developing multifunctional structural composites capable of energy storage for non-critical aeronautical applications. [...]
As part of the regional NEOCOMP project, funded by IVACE in the Valencian Community, AIMPLAS presents a comprehensive approach to the development of advanced composite materials by producing dry fiber through its own pilot line. This work focuses on the development of thermoplastic binders, dry fiber production, pre-consolidation and resin infusion, as well as the study of mechanical properties. The main objective is the development of thermoplastic binders and the subsequent production of dry fiber. The binders will be formulated using compounding technologies with co-rotating twin-screw extruders to ensure proper dispersion and distribution of the additives. The dry fiber will be produced using a pilot plant system designed and developed by AIMPLAS, equipped with the necessary technology for binder adhesion onto continuous reinforcement. Finally, the materials will be validated for processing with AFP (Automated Fiber Placement) equipment to achieve pre-consolidated panels. After pre-consolidation, resin infusion will be carried out to obtain high-performance structural materials. The binder materials will be characterized through powder granulometry analysis, while the dry fiber will be studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate binder-to-fiber distribution and adhesion. The project concludes with a thorough tensile analysis of the infused panels, following standards for mechanical performance evaluation. The results obtained not only highlight the potential of the developed materials but also demonstrate the feasibility of this approach for the industrial production of high-performance composite materials for key sectors such as aerospace.
Abstract As part of the regional NEOCOMP project, funded by IVACE in the Valencian Community, AIMPLAS presents a comprehensive approach to the development of advanced composite materials [...]
B. Galindo, R. Ruiz, F. Ramos, . A.Crespo, F. Ramos Saz
Materiales Compuestos (2024). Vol. 08 - COMUNICACIONES MATCOMP21 (2022) Y MATCOMP23 (2023), (Núm. 5 - Materiales y Estructuras), 25
Abstract
In the present study will show the concept of FOREST project which will contribute to the decarbonisation of the transport sector by developing and implementing innovative bio-based polymers & additives and recycled carbon fibres.
FOREST will develop novel lightweight multifunctional biocomposites as a competitive alternative to conventional composites. New chemistries will be developed based on bio-based materials (reactive and nonreactive polymeric systems and fire-retardant additives) in combination with fully recycled carbon fibre and EMI particles.
These biocomposite candidates will be obtained using one-shot manufacturing techniques, involving out-of-autoclave (OOA) processes to build and test prototypes (TRL5) with improved multifunctional properties (mechanical resistance, fire-retardant, EMI-shielding) for transport applications.
Abstract In the present study will show the concept of FOREST project which will contribute to the decarbonisation of the transport sector by developing and implementing innovative [...]