One of the most important trends in the lightweight composites industry is the low-cost and low-energy consumption of out-of-autoclave processes of sandwich composites and the possibility to recycle or reuse high-value raw materials. Especially for large-scale products with complex curved shapes, it is still a big challenge to assemble rigid foaming cores before processing.
Industry demands novel rigid foaming cores that are shapeable, recyclable and easy to process, at the same time that comply with lightweight and mechanical requirements, and integrate functionalities like flame retardancy, thermal and/or sound insulation.
IMDEA Materials has developed a methodology to synthesize recyclable and bendable foaming cores structures for lightweight sandwich composites that can be used as interior parts in the transport and construction sectors, and that display improved mechanical properties, fire resistance, curved shape ability and out-of-autoclave processing.
