Collaboration Agreement Renewed
The collaboration agreement between Solvay and GKN Aerospace is renewed. Increasing the use of thermoplastic composite materials on aerospace structures is the goal of the partnership.
A new collaboration agreement was signed between Solvay and GKN Aerospace that extends their 2017 agreement. In accordance with the contract, the two companies are creating a thermoplastic composites (TPC) roadmap together to investigate novel materials and production techniques for aerospace structures while collaborating on high-rate strategic future programs. Additionally, Solvay will continue to be a preferred supplier of TPC materials for GKN Aerospace.
Solvay and GKN Aerospace have collaborated on successful projects over the past six years, including a TPC wing rib program that resulted in the development of a lighter and more affordable part through the use of TPC and a one-shot manufacturing process, as well as the creation of an AFP TPC fuselage panel that was both efficient and affordable, opening the door to primary structure applications.
“We are excited to continue collaborating with GKN Aerospace,” said Fabrizio Ponte, Head of Solvay Thermoplastic Platform. “Going forward our teams will specifically work on next generation TPC materials and processes for aerospace applications including commercial aviation and Advanced Air Mobility. Our particular focus on high rate manufacturing solutions for medium and large structures.”
Arnt Offringa, Director of GKN Aerospace’s Global Technology Centre in the Netherlands said: “We are delighted to renew our agreement with Solvay. Lightweight technologies will play a key role in the journey to more sustainable aviation and working together has strengthened our technology leadership in thermoplastic innovation. Collaboration will be vital as we continue to push the boundaries of technology in order to meet our sustainability targets.”
When it comes to the use of TPC on aircraft, GKN Aerospace is a market pioneer, and Solvay's PEKK composites and PEKK films significantly contribute to the TPC development efforts at GKN Aerospace.
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