Natex

Natural Aligned Fibres and Textiles for Use in Structural Composite Applications

Biocomposites manufactured from natural materials such as natural fibres and bioderived polymers offer a sustainable alternative to traditional composites but, at present, they are not suitable for use in structural applications. Natex is developing aligned textiles from natural fibres for use as high strength reinforcments to produce structural composite parts using bio and oil-based thermoplastic and thermoset resins.

The main innovations will be:

• New chemical/enzymatic fibre treatments to improve the natural fibre-matrix interface
• New methods for low twist yarn production to increase the mechanical properties of the biocomposites
• Specific treatment of the fibres/yarns to obtain optimum performance during weaving
• Adaptation of innovative textile production techniques to improve impregnation and to obtain innovative 3D and multiaxial textiles
• Commingling methods to improve the permeability of thermoplastic polymers into the natural fibre textiles
• Development and modification of bio and oil-based resins for improved compatability with natural fibres
• Adaptation of a range of processing methods including vacuum consolidation, vacuum infusion, resin transfer moulding, compression moulding and continuous compression moulding
• Development of joining and coating techniques for biocomposite materials

As a result, aligned natural fibres with improved properties are being combined with thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers, increasing the mechanical properties of biocomposites and opening up a range of structural applications. The materials will be demonstrated by producing 4 case studies from key sectors including transport, energy, agricultural machinery and shipbuilding.

The project runs from 2008-2012 and has a total value of €5M.

Website: www.natex.eu

Acknowledgements

Natex is a Collaborative Project for SMEs supported by the European Commission 7th Framework Programme, contract no. CP – TP 214467 – 2, theme NMP-2007-4.0-2 Application of New Materials Including Bio-Based Fibres in High-Added Value Textile Products.