Infrastructure
New Bridge Deck Bests Early FRP Systems
Mechanically fastened, two-piece composite deck system addresses challenges inherent in previous fiber-reinforced polymer deck designs, lowering cost, speeding installation and reducing maintenance.
Read MoreATL and AFP: Signs of evolution in machine process control
Improved machine-control software, placement accuracy and design simulation have made automated fiber placement and tape laying machines truly production-worthy. The evolution, however, still continues.
Read MoreStructural health monitoring: Composites get smart
New initiatives are mainstreaming real-time monitoring systems into composites on aircraft, wind blades and other critical performance structures.
Read MoreAlternative energy growth creating secular demand for composites
Alternative energy sources, such as solar, wind, and geothermal, are finally emerging as contenders alongside our primary electric-power-producing fossil fuels, natural gas and coal (but not oil), primarily because these technologies are ready for widespread distribution and adoption, based on average pricing for electricity.
Read MoreRETOOLING THEORY AND PRACTICE
To meet the critical need for knowledgeable composites engineers and technicians, public/private partnerships are molding new applications-driven and transportable educational models.
Read MoreEducation: Retooling Theory and Practice
To meet the critical need for knowledgeable composites engineers and technicians, public/private partnerships are molding new applications-driven and transportable educational methods.
Read MoreSAMPE 2008 preview
Back at its home base in Long Beach, the 53rd Symposium and Exhibition puts the emphasis on world-changing M&P innovation.
Read MoreBuilding Bridges to Bridge and Building Rehab Markets
Despite a lack of standardization and education in the civil construction sector, these innovators use carbon and steel fibers to reinforce the business case for composites.
Read MoreOut-of-autoclave tooling gets out of the blocks
General aviation aircraft manufacturer adopts new oven-cure tooling.
Read MoreHybrid bridge design employs composite beams
The Texas Dept. of Transportation (TxDOT) recently installed over a drainage ditch in Refugio County a new bridge that incorporates composite beams, replacing a single-span, steel girder bridge. Located 35 miles from Corpus Christi, the 50-ft/15.4m long, 32-ft/10m wide bridge is the state’s second to use
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