Lighter, stronger aeroplanes thanks to new hybrid thermoplastic composites
Aviation is set to reach new heights thanks to a novel plastic which is tougher, weighs less and is cheaper to construct, developed by the University of Bath. Last updated on Tuesday 18 December 2018 - The NHYTE (New Hybrid Thermoplastic Composite Aerostructures manufactured by Out of Autoclave Continuous Automated Technologies) project has received ¤5.2m of Horizon 2020 funding and brings together the expertise of several academic and industrial partners from across the EU. The NHYTE project, led at Bath by Professor Michele Meo alongside Dr Francesco Ciampa and Dr Fulvio Pinto in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, aims to develop an innovative multifunctional composite which is both easier to manufacture and higher in mechanical performance. In comparison to current material used on aeroplane wings and other components, this new multilayer material is structurally stronger and is simpler to process, particularly the shorter time it takes to manufacture and the reduced energy associated with the manufacturing process. As a result of reducing energy, the project aims to also reduce associated Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide emissions from less energy intensive manufacturing process as well as directly from flying due to lighter and more efficient aeroplanes. Holiday-goers and regular flyers are expected to benefit from an overall increase in aviation safety as a result of this material performing better, health benefits due to cleaner air through reduced emissions, and eventually cheaper ticket prices as airline companies pass down their own cost savings as a result of this innovative new material.
