ADVANCED RESIN INFUSION TECHNOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE COMPOSITES MANUFACTURE
CLIENT
Arkema is a global leader in Specialty Materials, with expertise materials science. Arkema designs materials to address growing demand for innovative and sustainable materials, driven by challenges in delivering new energies, new technologies, resource depletion, mobility and increasing urbanization. Arkema’s innovation programs focus on five solution-oriented research platforms, which include lightweight and designed materials; new energies; natural resources management; electronic solutions; and living comfort / home efficiency. These platforms shape R&D programs that are addressing needs driven by major global trends.
Among Arkema’s notable contributions to the speciality materials industry is the development of ELIUM® resin, a recyclable thermoplastic resin, which represents a significant breakthrough in the composites field, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable manufacturing solutions across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and boating.
https://www.arkema.com/global/en/
CHALLENGE
Arkema faced a significant challenge in promoting the adoption of its pioneering ELIUM® resin within the boating industry.
ELIUM® resin is unique in that it has the potential to be recyclable while maintaining the weight, strength, and performance characteristics of conventional resins.
The challenge was not only in handling the resin's unique properties during the manufacturing process but also in integrating it seamlessly into existing production lines, specifically for a leading boat manufacturer, who are committed to sustainability.
SOLUTION
To assist with the industry adoption of Elium®, Composite Integration provided the CIJECT 8 resin mixing and injection machine; developed specifically to support the infusion of ELIUM® resin.
This machine features advanced control systems and adaptable parameters suitable for handling the specific needs of recyclable resins, ensuring seamless integration into production processes without compromising product quality.
The precision and efficiency of the CIJECT 8 machine were crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and performance levels required for high-end boating applications.
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RESULTS
ENHANCED SUSTAINABILITY
The boat manufactured using the CIJECT 8 machine and ELIUM® resin, emerged as a flagship model for sustainability. It demonstrated that high-performance boats could be both manufactured in a way that reduces raw material needs, minimises waste and provides the opportunity to be recycled at the end of its lifecycle.
PERFORMANCE INTEGRITY
The boat maintained exceptional performance standards, comparable to those achieved with traditional resins, thus proving that greater sustainability can be achieved without sacrificing quality.
MANUFACTURING INNOVATION
The integration of ELIUM® resin into the boat manufacturers production line required an in-depth overhaul and three years of R&D, highlighting the commitment to innovation. The CIJECT 8 machine facilitated this transition, enabling more sustainable manufacturing processes that reduce waste and use of raw materials while enabling recyclability.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY
This project set a benchmark for the circular economy in boating, showcasing how sustainable practices can be implemented effectively in traditional industries.
MARKET LEADERSHIP
This project positioned the boat manufacturer as a leader in sustainable boating, paving the way for industry-wide changes towards protecting the environment.
PIONEERING
The success of the CIJECT 8 machine in enabling the use of ELIUM® resin not only benefited Arkema but also helped to set new standards for sustainability in the boating industry, encouraging other manufacturers to consider eco-friendly materials and technologies in their production processes.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS
'Collaborating closely with Arkema to integrate this innovative, recyclable resin into our CIJECT 8 infusion systems presented unique challenges, but also unprecedented opportunities.
This project allowed us to push the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable composites manufacturing, reinforcing our commitment to environmental responsibility and technological excellence.
We are proud to contribute to setting new standards in the industry, proving that high performance and sustainability can indeed go hand in hand."
Tim Searle
R&D Director, Composite Integration
“Elium® resin consistently forges pathways to solutions and opportunities in the marine industry, and working with Composite Integration has been critical to bringing this sustainable technology to market.
This innovation reflects our shared values and the commitment of our respective companies in shaping a more sustainable collective future.”
Nicolas Valloir
Business Manager, Arkema