CHAIRMAN'S CORNER
This is certainly an interesting era for those of us involved in materials.
From the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, Wales has been a major player in the production, processing and development of old and new materials. It is perhaps no coincidence that leading materials engineers in a high proportion of key aerospace industries in the United States are either Welsh or have strong links to Wales. In recent years, however, this heritage has faltered as our material foundations have been shaken by the downsizing and disappearance of key industrial players. Now there is room for optimism.
The second half of the twentieth century witnessed the evolution of plastics and theirderivatives: the polymer based composites. These are often 'designer' materials manufactured to meet specific industrial requirements. There are now many examples of components and structures that would not exist or would be difficult to produce without this evolution. Their major disadvantage is the environmental impact. This is now being addressed through polymers and composites based on plants grown in our fields. Natural fibre composites are becoming a major multi-million dollar world industry. Flax and hemp are fibre materials we normally associate with pre-industrial revolution industries. Now they, and a wide range of other fibre products, are being used to produce a new family of materials that will meet our drive for sustainability and environmental friendliness. Major companies such as Mercedes-Benz are already using natural fibre composites for components in their vehicles.
Wales once again can be a key player in this new revolution. Our agricultural background is well placed for producing the raw products. Our experience in managing and using wood products provides an invaluable technological foundation for their development. Our indigenous material and chemical engineering capabilities are well placed to exploit their potential. The new Centre
of Excellence (CETIC) in Advanced and Renewable Materials (CARM) at NEWI and University of Wales Bangor is a fundamental asset for the promotion of this new and exciting technology not only in Wales but also throughout the World. In this Bulletin we are pleased to offer the opportunity for everyone to learn about their background, expertise and plans for the future. In July, the MTFW will be working with the CARM, the BioComposites Centre, Bangor and the CETIC in materials at Swansea to promote Natural Composite technology at a major seminar in Swansea. The seminar is being held in conjunction with SUSCOMPNET (Sustainable Composites Network) who are instrumental in British interests in this new technology.
Research is fundamental in the development of new technologies such as the Natural Fibre Composites. It is a pleasure, therefore, to note that the Corus research centre at Port Talbot has now been purchased by the WDA and will act as a focal point for new technologies in Wales. The new centre is known as ECM2. Robert Walker has an article in the Bulletin on this new development. In July the MTFW is organising a prestigious seminar on Joining Techniques at ECM2. We look forward to meeting you all at that event.
|
©
Materials Network Wales 2005 | Last Updated: Jun 21 2005 | info@mnw.org.uk