📋 Tender Overview
Funded Value6390341Funded PeriodOct 19 - Mar 28FunderEPSRCProject StatusActiveProject CategoryTraining GrantProject ReferenceEPS0217281We will launch a new CDT focused on composite materials and manufacturing to deliver the next generation of composites research and technology leaders equipped with the skills to make an impact on society. In recent times composites have been replacing traditional materials e.g. metals at an unprecedented rate. Global growth in their use is expected to be rapid 5-10 annually. This growth is being driven by the need to lightweight structures for which lighter is better e.g. aircraft automotive car bodywork and wind blades and by the benefits that composites offer to functionalise both materials and structures. The drivers for lightweighting are mainly material cost fuel efficiency reducing emissions contributing to climate change but also for more purely engineering reasons such as improved operational performance and functionality. For example the UK composites sector has contributed significantly to the Airbus A400M and A350 airframes which exhibit markedly better performance over their metallic counterparts. Similarly in the wind energy field typically over 90 of a wind turbine blade comprises composites. However given the trend towards larger rotors weight and stiffness have become limiting factors necessitating a greater use of carbon fibre. Advanced composites and the possibility that they offer to add extra functionality such as shape adaptation are enablers for lighter smarter blades and cheaper more abundant energy. In the automotive sector given the push for greener cars the need for high speed production line-scale manufacturing approaches will necessitate more understanding of how different materials perform.Given these developments the UK has invested heavily in supporting the science and technology of composite materials for instance through the establishment of the National Composites Centre at the University of Bristol. Further investments are now required to support the skills element of the UK provision towards the composites industry and the challenges it presents. Currently there is a recognised skills shortage in the UKs technical workforce for composites the shortage being particularly acute for doctoral skills 30-150year are needed. New developments within industry such as robotic manufacture additive manufacture sustainability and recycling and digital manufacturing require training that encompasses engineering as well as the physical sciences. Our CDT will supply a highly skilled workforce and technical leadership to support the industry specifically the leadership to bring forth new radical thinking and the innovative mind-set required to future-proof the UKs global competitiveness. The development of future composites competing with the present resins fibres and functional properties as well as alternative ma
