Quickstep enters $10m research deal

Advanced materials group Quickstep Holdings has joined a collaborative $US10 million research program to investigate how nanotechnology can be used to improve advanced composite materials used in the global transportation industry.

Quickstep's German subsidiary, Quickstep GmbH, will receive $US445,000 from the European Commission for its role in the research.

Quickstep said the nanotechnology, known as 'nanotubes' involved the introduction of tiny, or nano, particles into composite materials.

It is believed the introduction of tiny carbon tubes could lead to enhanced electrical conductivity and strength of materials.

Electrical conductivity is a key challenge in aerospace manufacturing, because aircraft must have protection against electromagnetic interference and lightning strikes, Quickstep said.

The train industry also has requirements for improved electrical conductivity to provide insulation against electrostatic load, lightning strikes and damaged overhead electricity cables falling onto a rail car.

Quickstep managing director Philippe Oudard said the project could help solve many of the limitations associated with composite use in the global transportation industry.

"High-performance composites have emerged as a key solution to many of the main challenges in the global transportation sector, improving performance, reducing weight, increasing durability and - importantly - reducing environmental footprint," Mr Odouard said.

"However the dramatic shift towards the use of composites over the past decade has seen new technical challenges that need to be overcome.

"Nanotubes cured using the Quickstep Process address the area of electrical conductivity, and also provide additional toughness and improved inter laminar properties."

"The more the Quickstep Process demonstrates faster cycle times and improved properties in existing and new materials, the greater acceptance Quickstep will have in this rapidly growing market, particularly in automotive."

The research project is being conducted by an alliance of 16 different organisations.

In addition to Quickstep, participants include:
- The European Aeronautic Defence & Space Company (EADS);
- SLCA - a subsidiary of the SAFRAN Group which undertakes design and manufacture of composite parts for airliners, regional aircraft, business jets and helicopters;
- Alstom - one of the world‟s largest providers of rolling stock and rail transport infrastructure;
- The University of Cambridge, the University of London and the Catholic University of Leuven; and
- Coexpair, which will act as the project manager.

"This is a major research initiative involving some of the largest participants in the European research and transport manufacturing fields," Mr Odouard said.

"We are delighted to take part in what we believe may represent the future of high performance composites manufacturing."

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2013.