Manufacturing
Composites
The Composites Group is dedicated to advancing research in the discovery, design, manufacturing, and recycling of high-performance polymer composites. Our focus extends from the foundational science of low-TRL blue-sky research to the practical applications at high TRL, encompassing both structural composites and multifunctional composites. Collaborating with internal and external partners. Our goal is to pioneer cutting-edge techniques, spanning modelling, synthesis, fabrication, manufacturing, and assembly/joining. Beyond research, we are committed to fostering composites education, contributing to the broader dissemination and application of our knowledge in academia and industry.
Research themes
- Mechanics of polymer composites
- Design and manufacture of composites
- Multifunctional composites
- Nanocomposites
- Recycling of composites
- Health monitoring of composites
Current research projects
- EPSRC-funded research on ‘Bacterial magnetosome inspired material discovery for high sensitivity to ultra-low magnetic fields (MIMSUM)’, Ref. EP/W524608/1 (collab. with UK NCC and City, University of London)
- ‘Digitalisation of Remote Composites Manufacturing Monitoring’ funded by UKRI-KTP, Ref. KTP013729 (collab. with Airborne Composites Ltd.)
- ‘Scalable Multifunctional Ciliated Surfaces for Optimal Flow Control and Self-sensing’ (Collaborative research with Cranfield University and City, University of London)
- Multifunctional through-thickness reinforced composites (collaboration research with Bristol Composites Institute)
- Fatigue characterisation and modelling of composites (collaboration research with the SME Magma Global)
- Recycling of thermoplastic composites (internal pump-primping project)
Research team
If you are interested in collaborating with us or joining our research team, please get in touch with our team members: