Chairman's Corner

Professor John Evans

It is appropriate therefore that we devote a Bulletin to leading players in this field. For these reasons we have invited contributions from the National Composites Network, Airbus UK and the Swansea Institute. These articles will focus on the new developments and exciting challenges ahead. Personally I have experience of Airbus activities through research work being carried out in the Materials Research Centre at Swansea. I also have had some experience of the work being carried out by the Swansea Institute, particularly in relation to detecting in-service and manufacturing damage that can be experienced by these materials. In both these areas there have been major technology developments that form the background to the articles presented. Our third contributor, the National Composites Network, is playing a major role in the UK in linking together composites activities to ensure sure that the industry moves forward with a solid and united front. I am sure that you will find all three articles interesting and informative.

As many of you are aware, the Materials Network Wales also holds a series of technical seminars throughout the year. We are always very pleased with the response for these events and the many favourable comments we receive after them. Further information can be found within the Bulletin.

After six years in the Chair, I have decided to stand down and allow someone else to formulate new ideas and define an exciting future for the Network. I would, however, like to thank all our members for their support over the years and in particular my colleagues on the Steering Committee who have been very understanding, helpful and pro-active in arranging events, preparing the Bulletins and maintaining the website.