Enlighten

ENLIGHTEN: Enabling Integrated Lightweight Structures In High Volumes. A project initiative into the use and adoption of thermoplastic composite materials in large aircraft structures and mass-produces parts for automotive industry.

Summary

Thermoplastic composites (TPCs) are renowned for being lightweight, strong, easy to process, and readily recyclable. While TPC components are already utilised in aircraft fuselages and wings, large-scale application remains limited. The ENLIGHTEN programme is set to transform this landscape. A multidisciplinary team of researchers is dedicated to developing scientifically proven design and production methods, enabling the creation of large, reliable TPC structures that are reproducible and cost-effective. At TPAC, we are committed to integrating and demonstrating the project’s output in our lab in Enschede, with a focus on in-line monitoring solutions during the overmoulding process.

Project partners

Airborne, Airbus, Aniform, Autodesk, Boeing, Boikon, Bosch, Cato, Composites NL, DSM, DTC, Eindhoven University of Technology, Engel, e‐Xstream, GKN/Fokker, HAN University of Applied Sciences, JLR, KVE, M2i, Province of Overijssel, SAM|XL, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, SET Europe, Solvay, TNO‐BMC, Toray Advanced Composites, TPRC, TU Delft, University of Twente, University of Warwick and Victrex.

Duration

2021-2028

Funding

Financed by NWO

For more information about this project, please click here.