Welcome to the Research Group Composite Technologies at the Institute of Aircraft Design and Lightweight Structures. At IFL, we look back on decades of experience in researching composite materials. Our activities range from material characterisation at coupon level to investigations at component level, as well as projects on global aircraft structures. They include quasi-static, cyclic, and, in close collaboration with the Research Group Structural Integrity, Crash and Impact, also highly dynamic problems. Our research projects typically include both experiments and simulation.
The facilities at our sites in Braunschweig and Stade enable us to manufacture composite parts by various processes, which include autoclave manufacturing among others. In our facilities, we have a wide range of testing machines that vary in size, force capacity and loading types. Furthermore, we have state-of-the-art measurement technology for data recording, allowing us to analyse various target parameters effectively. In our materials diagnostics laboratory, we are equipped with a variety of options for the analyses of specimens, which also cover non-destructive methods such as ultrasound scanning.
We have extensive experience in the numerical simulation of the mechanical behaviour and complex failure mechanisms of composite materials using common commercial finite element software. The simulation of manufacturing processes and manufacturing-related pre-damage in laminates also falls within our area of expertise.
In addition to investigating particularly high-performance systems, the sustainability aspect of composite materials is at the centre of our current research. This involves, on one hand, the introduction of natural fibres and recyclable thermoplastics into aviation, and on the other hand, the development of alternative stiffening concepts for future aircraft. For more information about past and current research projects, please visit our project pages. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in writing a student thesis within one of our research projects.
reFrame (TP2) | Recycled Fiber Reinforcements for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering
SHOREliner | Development of a climate-neutral composite aircraft with robust aerodynamic and STOL capabilities for use as a multi-purpose commuter
AutoBLADE | Automated technology for the production of continuously draped preforms for large-area FRP infusion components with a high aspect ratio
OptiFee | Layout topology optimization of unconventionally stiffened FRP structures under consideration of manufacturability criteria
BionicWalker | Development of a new type of prosthetic fitting for partial foot amputees with a carbon spring element for the absorption, storage and release of kinetic energy