Composites

Abstract

Textile reinforced composites are now industrial products, moving on from the "craft industry" stage. Industrial, domestic, medical and sporting uses are noted, among others. A focal point will be the JEC Composites Show 2002, Paris Expo exhibition centre, April 2002. Innovations are evident in new fibres, new ways of assembling them and new textile textures. Resins also offer a multitude of formulations and matrix systems to meet emerging demands. Thermoset composites take the large market share but there is also support for composites with thermoplastic matrices with their recycling possibilities, particularly from the automotive industry. Mass production is now also available. Design issues related to cost effectiveness are discussed and the trend towards "near net shape" textile preforms is highlighted. This has helped to promote the transformation processes such as resin transfer moulding (RTM) and resin infusion moulding (RIM).