The Bright Future of Composites

In our modern world, composite materials are used across a wide range of applications, from infrastructure to the aerospace and aviation industries. Compared to other materials, composite materials have strategic importance due to their advantages of being lightweight, durable, long-lasting and cost-effective in applications. Looking back at history, we can clearly see the increasing number of composite material patents over the years. For example, the average number of patents between the 1950s and 1970s was around 1,000 per year. However, today it is estimated that more than 3,000 patents are filed annually. (Figure 1A)

Figure 1A. Number of composite patents by year

This example gives us a good idea of how the world will shape up in the near future. We will see that most aircraft, cars and vehicles will be manufactured from composite materials. Change has already begun, but with the development of 3D printers and easier access to printing technology, more people will be able to manufacture their own vehicles, transport vehicles, customized auxiliary robots, homes and much more using composite materials and additives in the near future.

Figure 2A. 3D printed composite house, bicycle and robot

As composite materials secure such a strategic place in our daily lives, in the thermoset resin group; catalysts (Organic Peroxides) and accelerators also have the same importance for production. As Akpa Kimya; for over 20 years we have been manufacturing high-technology organic peroxides and accelerators. Our Organic Peroxides (Catalysts) are used worldwide in many applications such as hand lay-up/spray, pultrusion, resin transfer molding (RTM), lamination, fiber winding, hot press molding (SMC-BMC). With our dynamic and experienced R&D team, conscious of the responsibility assigned to us, we continue to produce environmentally friendly technologies such as phthalate-free organic peroxides (Akperox A50PF, Akperox A60PF) and lead-free paint desiccants (Akdry mix2, Akdry HP39) for a greener and more sustainable future.

Figure 3A. A commercial 3D printer and 3D printed thermoplastic tool

Dost Akyıldız - Petrochemical Business Unit Manager /Akpa Kimya