CompSTLar project develops lab-scale graphene-enhanced carbon fiber UD tape

The CompSTLar project, funded by the European Union, has achieved a milestone in the production of graphene-enhanced unidirectional (UD) carbon fiber tapes at a laboratory scale. Partner Aimplas, based in Valencia, Spain, successfully manufactured these tapes, which incorporate graphene and carbon nanotube-doped LMPAEK matrix, aiming to enhance electrical conductivity and laser susceptibility in thermoplastic composites (TPC) for aerospace applications.

CompSTLar is coordinated by Aimen Technology Centre in O Porriño, Spain, as part of the Horizon Research and Innovation Actions. The project focuses on the design, manufacturing, maintenance, and recycling of high-performance composite aerostructures for next-generation aircraft, running from February 2025 to July 2028. Aimplas is utilizing graphene nanoplatelets and graphene/carbon nanotube hybrid nanofillers within a Victrex LMPAEK matrix to develop these UD tapes, targeting multifunctional composites with improved properties.

Recent manufacturing trials highlighted the importance of processing temperature, with a critical finding that at approximately 400°C, the material's viscosity hindered fiber impregnation. Lowering the temperature to around 330°C resulted in a stable process with satisfactory fiber wetting. The project partners emphasize that understanding the behavior of the polymer matrix, especially with graphene-based additives, is crucial for scaling up production.

Currently at technology readiness level (TRL) 3-4, the CompSTLar project plans to explore higher nanofiller contents, evaluate their effects on electrical performance, and conduct automated tape placement (ATP) trials.

For further details, Aimen project coordinator Pablo Romero Rodríguez provides a summary of the project's progress over the last 18 months in a Q&A session. Additional information about the project is available on CW.