COMPOSITES
chain – from resources, logistics, manufacturing to usage and recycling – will really target what we want all: being responsible with resources for our future generations.
NEW APPROACH TO A CAR SEAT Te proof-of-concept car seat that is described in this article has been designed according to the current highest sustainable criteria, something confirmed by several responsible OEMs. Basalt is an excellent candidate
for replacing carbon fibres, even for structural applications. Te weight is higher, but due to the innovative process technology of endless wet winding fibre, the material is used only in the exact needed quantity. Te simulation-driven process is very efficient and during production the waste is limited to almost nothing (no off-cut). Te highly innovative design, using a double layer truss structure provides a high stiffness for meeting the criteria of the standards and requirements to be considered for homologation of the respective market segment (e.g. automotive or aeronautic). Using sustainable materials for the
upholstery and as well as a back-panel of basalt, the future development will concentrate on replacing the already ~70% bio-based resin with a 100% bio-based resin, meeting the criteria for circular economy. By designing future components consequently in that direction, a number of positive results can be achieved, including using fewer primary resources; lowering the primary energy consumption; and optimising the global CO2
footprint. Tis approach
also considers the whole process chain including logistics. It tackles the issue of reduction of energy consumption during usage and it also considers the circular economy. We will increase the chance to save the planet. It is only a part of the puzzle of course, but a very important one. In conclusion, lightweight is equal to sustainability with respect to the above-mentioned aspects.
Claude Maack is managing director of Gradel.
www.gradel.lu
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www.engineerlive.com
Sustainable materials help meet the criteria for the cicrular economy
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