The Fraunhofer IMWS has long-standing, top-tier expertise in the application-specific development of UD tapes, their processing and analysis. In particular, the team supports its clients with microstructure-based material and process development in cost-efficient processing for:
- Lightweight applications (such as local reinforcement of components from injection molding and 3D-printing)
- Special applications (such as flame-retardant treatment, electrical and thermal conductivity, high mechanical performance, tailored to downstream processing)
- Sustainable applications (such as circular and biobased polymers and/or fibers, self-reinforcement in mono-material concepts)
Research and development in materials and processing techniques is conducted for various types of fibers (synthetic and natural), including consultation on the selection of suitable materials for the polymer matrix and reinforcing fibers, depending on the intended application and processing technology.
Fraunhofer experts are continuously work on improvements related to process optimization in continuous melt impregnation (process design, tool design) as well as scale-up of process capability through pilot processing (prototype production, pilot runs). Another focus is on the use of process-integrated and downstream methods for quality assessment (mechanical properties, structural analysis). In addition, life-cycle analyses along the entire value chain is used to prove gains in sustainability and enable circularity.
Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS
