top of page
THE FUTURE APPLICATIONS OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS
The PROMISING FUTURE of COMPOSITE MATERIALS in ECO-FRIENDLY INDUSTRIES
The potential of composite materials for a wide range of applications is immense, with several sectors that previously relied on conventional materials such as metals now considering the use of composites. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this shift, with rising steel prices and reduced availability leading engineers and manufacturers to explore alternative materials that offer the same stiffness and weight requirements within a given space frame.
One industry that is rapidly growing and can benefit greatly from composites is the development and manufacture of electric motors. These motors require structural elements that are light yet strong since they use heavier materials like copper, magnets, and batteries. Composite materials fit this requirement perfectly, being capable of conforming to complex shapes and forming an integral part of the structure.
Tesla vehicles already use integrated batteries that offer a weight saving of up to 10% and an increase in range of up to 14%. The electric vehicle industry is making strides with this technology, and others are likely to follow suit.
Composite structures could see their greatest development in electric-powered aircraft and eVTOLs, with companies like ZeroAvia and Vertical Aerospace leading the way in making electric aircraft commercially viable.
Automation and the use of machines to lay up multiple pieces on molds, with tailoring of fiber directions during this stage, will help reduce maintenance, increase range, and improve efficiency.
The future of composite materials is extremely promising, with the automotive and aerospace sectors driving new developments. As electric vehicles become more widespread and affordable, we can expect to see a wider use of composites for advanced structures, which will lead to price reductions as the processes are refined and the technology becomes more accessible to other industries.
bottom of page