UMaine research is recognized for its contributions to the composites and high-performance materials industries
Researchers at the University of Maine's Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC) were recognized for their work in addressing a key challenge in the introduction of continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTPs): their complex manufacturing.
Their article, “Novel field fabrication methods for long-fiber thermoplastic composites,” highlights that CFRTPs are highly valued for their strength-to-weight ratio, recyclability, and corrosion resistance, making them ideal candidates for sustainable construction and infrastructure applications.
Authors including ASCC engineers James Haller, Jacob Clark, James Gayton, Michael Hunter, Andrew Schanck and Cody Sheltra, and William Davids, professor of civil and environmental engineering; Roberto Lopez-Anido, professor of civil engineering; and Justin Lapp, assistant professor of design, won the 2024 CAMX Outstanding Technical Paper Award in the Best in Track: Manufacturing & Processing Technologies category. This award, presented at the Composites and Advanced Materials Expo (CAMX) in San Diego, California, recognizes innovative research that advances the composites and advanced materials industries.
Manufacturing hurdles associated with thermoplastics have prevented their widespread adoption and created an urgent need for innovative materials and processes that balance performance, sustainability and practicality.
Researchers introduced several manufacturing processes, including the Continuous Forming Machine (CFM), and developed local thermoforming techniques that demonstrate the potential of CFRTPs to revolutionize sustainable construction by enabling efficient, lightweight manufacturing that can be formed and installed on site . This would make it possible to produce structural components such as concrete reinforcing bars and complex shapes with multi-axial reinforcement that are recyclable, durable and environmentally friendly.
Read the full ASCC story online.
Contact: MJ Gautrau, mj.gautrau@maine.edu