Structural Composites
LIST is stepping up its research activities to develop the next generation of sustainable and high-performance composite materials and product. Our aim is to develop these new materials by focusing on their sustainability and recycling, and on unparalleled performance in terms of weight/mechanical properties, while optimizing the core aspect of composite materials: fibre-filler/matrix interfaces.
In response to the evolving demands of industries and the pressing need for sustainable solutions, LIST is strategically positioned to pioneer the development of the next generation of composite materials and products. Our research is marked by innovative approaches, leveraging advanced technologies in materials interface engineering, state-of-the-art composite manufacturing technology, and advanced modelling and design optimisation techniques. We invite collaboration from industry partners, fellow researchers, and stakeholders to collectively shape the future of composite materials and contribute to a sustainable and high-performance industrial landscape.
Research challenges
- Multiscale Characterization of Composite Behaviour: Development of experimental techniques for characterizing the functional behaviour of composites at various scales, from constituents and interfaces to structures.
- Sustainability and Life-Cycle of Composite Materials and Structures: Development of bio-based composites, structural disassembly, and on-demand debonding, as well as recycling routes for composites
- Functional Composite Interfaces and Interphases: Development of surface activation and treatment approaches to enhance adhesion, integrity, and functionality of fibre-matrix interfaces, filament/tape/ply, and multi-material interphases.
- Innovative Composite Manufacturing: Processes Development, Modelling, and Engineering.
- Multiscale Computational Modelling of Composite Materials & Virtual Testing: Development of advanced numerical analysis approaches for micro-, meso-, and structural scales, considering material variability and uncertainty.
Application areas
- Innovative Process Development for Transport Applications
- Exploration of design opportunities for lightweight and durable automotive components.
- Introduces innovative processes utilizing vitrimer composites for improved performance and durability in transportation.
- Aerospace Industry
- Welding and Assembly of Structural Composite for Primary Aeronautics Structures
- Advances in welding and assembly techniques for composite materials in primary aerospace structures.
- Development of New Structural Design Concepts for Air Transport
- Energy and Manufacturing
- Reactive Thermoplastic Composite High Pressure Vessels:
- Encompasses design, manufacturing process, materials testing, and performance prediction.
- Targets energy and manufacturing sectors, contributing to the development of advanced high-pressure vessels.
- Multifunctional Composites Engineering:
- Development of composites with coupled mechanical, thermal, electrical, sensing, and energy harvesting/storage capabilities.
Research groups
The Structural Composites unit is composed of two RDI groups:
- The Fibre Composites and Interfaces (FCI) group addresses the development of lightweight composites materials. Our aim is to develop these new materials by focusing both on their sustainability and recycling and an unparalleled performance in terms of weight/mechanical properties while optimizing the core aspect of composite materials: fibre / matrix interfaces.
- The Design and Manufacturing of Advanced Composite (DMAC) structural group integrates computational science and technology and composite material science to advanced sustainable manufacturing concepts. The group’s focus spans composite material design, performance optimization and advanced manufacturing process. This emphasis is applied on niche, unconventional or disruptive approaches, positioning DMAC at the forefront of innovation and research within the field.
Equipment
The Structural Composites Unit has access to the High-Performance Computing facilities within LIST, and to the capabilities of the Composite Manufacturing Platform and of the Materials Characterization and Testing Platform of LIST which include:
- Processing of composites (Liquid Infusion, Resin Transfer Moulding, Thermoforming, Robotic Filament Winding, IR welding).
- Microstructural characterization (X-Ray Computed Microtomography, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy).
- Multiscale mechanical characterization and testing (Nanoindentation, Universal Testing Machines, Digital Image Correlation).
- Non-destructive Inspection (Ultrasonic Scanning, CT Scanning).
