Innovations in composite materials and structures are essential for the low carbon economy, for producing efficient, lightweight vehicles and components used for renewable energy generation at low cost.
With its advanced design and manufacturing capability, the pioneering Composites and Advanced Materials Centre is an established partner to manufacturers and the members of their supply chains through short courses, consultancy and research. The Centre investigates and develops materials and processing technology for lightweight and efficient structures and combines an expertise in low cost manufacturing with modelling, simulation and structural health monitoring technologies.
Its research into the development and processing of carbon fibre multi-axial fabrics is now part of the Airbus A380. The Centre has also produced a complete unmanned aircraft airframe using low-cost composite manufacturing (FLAVIIR Project); composite reinforcing techniques for aerospace landing gear; sensors for built-in detection of structural degradation; and a cost model for composite design and manufacturing. The team designed and manufactured a successful experimental aircraft airframe, and an ultralight carbon fibre body for the Nissan UK hybrid supercar demonstrated at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The Centre is a core partner in the strategic Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Composites (CIMComp), supported by major manufacturers.
