Smart Textiles and Nanotechnology (January 2015)

the news service for textile futures

Smart Materials In this issue

SMART MATERIALS Architected Lattice—the new wonder material 1

WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY

New device for treating psoriasis 3 Sensors provide biometric identity 4 Enter The Dash 6 Textile sensors for comfortable spinal braces 7 Architected Lattice—the Three-dimensional printed arrays bound for space 7 new wonder material University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and Architected Materials are working to exploit an extraordinary new energy- absorbing material. Among other uses, it could replace the foam padding in sports helmets and at the same time detect and transmit valuable data about the impact of a head injury. Industry 4.0 at BMW 10 They have received a US$500 000 research grant and are eligible to receive up to Two-year battery life with Assure 12 $8.5 million in additional funding as one of the winners of the Head Health Challenge II . This open innovation competition is being run by sports performance brand Under NANOFIBRES Armour, working with the US National Football League (NFL) and General Electric to Nanocellulose products partnership 3 accelerate the development of new products Muscle monitoring in space at Ohmatex 4 for brain injury prevention, as part of a $40- million programme launched in March 2013. LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE TECHNOLOGY “Each of these seven winners will help Energizing the intensive care room 6 advance the science towards our shared goal SMART FABRICS of making sports safer,” says NFL Protection for solar panels 8 Commissioner Roger Goodell. “New materials, equipment designs and technology RECYCLING breakthroughs will better protect athletes, Potential with liquid lay-down 8 no matter what sport they play.” Of the 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries NANOTECHNOLOGY in the United States each year, more than FX improves FibeRio reach 9 750 000 are considered ‘mild’, and over Graphene for composites 9 173 000 are related to recreational and EVENTS sports activity. In the last decade, emergency Diary of Events 11 department visits for mild traumatic brain

January 2015 http://www.technical-textiles.net ISSN 1752-2668 ©2015 International Newsletters Ltd January 2015 http:// www.technical-textiles.net injury (mTBI) among highly vulnerable populations – such as children and developing youth – have increased by more than 60%. “These microlattices are behaviourally Lightest material similar to elastomers and almost Architected Materials of Ventura, California, was founded to develop completely recover their shape after the Architected Lattice material invented at the HRL Laboratories in significant compression. This gives Malibu, California, which carries out research for Boeing and General Motors (GM). them a significant advantage over At the end of 2011, researchers at HRL, working with colleagues current aerogels, which are brittle, at UCLA, announced the creation of the world’s lightest material glass-like substances.” with a density of 0.9 mg.cc –1 —approximately one hundred times lighter than polystyrene foam. UCLA says that this new material redefines the limits of be used to fabricate the template. Using the process, ultraviolet lightweight materials because of its unique ‘microlattice’ cellular (UV) radiation is passed through a perforated mask into a reservoir architecture. Using a new fabrication process developed by HRL of UV-curable resin. Fibre-optic-like ‘self-trapping’ of the light scientist Dr Alan Jacobsen, the team was able to make a material occurrs as the resin cures under each hole in the mask, forming a that consists of 99.99% open volume by designing the 0.01% solid at thin polymer fibre along the path of the light. By using multiple light the nanometre, micron and millimetre scales. beams, multiple fibres can then interconnect to form a lattice. “The trick is to fabricate a lattice of interconnected hollow tubes The process is similar to photolithography in that it uses a two- with a wall thickness of 100 nm” explains Jacobsen. dimensional mask to define the starting template structure, but differs in the rate of formation. Where stereolithography might take hours to Self trapping make a full structure, the self-forming waveguide process allows To produce the initial metallic microlattice, the researchers prepared templates to be formed in 10–100 seconds. In this way, the process a polymer template using a technique based on self-propagating enables large free-standing three-dimensional (3D) lattice materials to waveguide formation—though it was noted that other methods can be formed quickly and scalably. The template is then coated with a thin layer of metal by electroless nickel plating, and the template is etched away, leaving a free-standing, periodic porous metallic structure. Nickel was used as the microlattice metal in the original research. Owing to the electrodeposition process, 7% of the material consisted of dissolved phosphorus atoms, and it contained no precipitates. Metallic microlattices are characterized by very low densities, with the 2011 record of 0.9 mg.cm –3 being among the lowest values of any known solid. The previous record of 1.0 mg.cm –3 was held by silica aerogels, and aerographite has a density of 0.2 mg.cm –3 . Mechanically, these microlattices are behaviourally similar to elastomers and almost completely recover their shape after significant compression. This gives them a significant advantage over current aerogels, which are brittle, glass-like substances. This elastomeric property in metallic microlattices results in very efficient shock absorption.

Data The chief uses for this material are envisaged in battery electrodes and catalyst supports, as well as for acoustic, vibration or shock energy damping. “Modern buildings, exemplified by the Eiffel Tower or the Golden Gate Bridge are incredibly light and weight-efficient by virtue of their architectures,” says Jacobsen. “We are revolutionizing lightweight materials by bringing this concept to the materials level and designing their architectures at the nano and micro scales. One of the key innovations with our architected lattice technology is that it can be manufactured quickly and cost-effectively, which differentiates Architected lattice uniform pattern as seen through a our technology from traditional 3D printing techniques.” scanning electron microscope (1) and cell unit detail (2). In preliminary tests, the material has outperformed commonly The material can be grown specifically for small or large used vinyl nitrile for reducing transmitted peak force—a key metric applications (3). for helmet pads. A lightweight and rigid sandwich structure (4) and Architected Lattice can also be enhanced with a strain-sensing multi-layered lattice (5). A hierarchical structure (6) and ‘smart lattice’ to detect and transmit data about the impact of a curved structure (7). Football helmet padding for Impact collision. This data could help engineers and product designers make protection using the material (8). further improvements in helmet design and performance.

The other winners of the Head Health Challenge II were: • the US Army Research Laboratory (ARL), based in Adelphi, Maryland, which has developed a rate-dependent strapping material which it is proposing will be used to couple a helmet to the torso; • Viconic Sporting of Dearborn, Michigan, which is developing resilient plastic pads based on its automotive crash helmet material to go underneath the artificial turf on a pitch; • researchers at Emory University and Georgia Intsitute of Technology have developed a portable device called iDetect which measures changes in the brain affecting memory, reaction time and balance after a head injury; • a team from the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Neuro Kinetics who are developing portable 3D virtual reality goggles. These employ fast miniature cameras to look for changes in eye movement and abnormal responses associated with concussions; (PASI), which measures the severity of psoriasis plaques (thickness, • University of New Hampshire researcher Erik Swartz, who is redness and scaling). No negative side-effects of the blue LED light placing pill-sized accelerometers, gyroscopes and other head treatment were observed. sensors behind the ears of players to measure the effectiveness BlueControl has been developed to be easily integrated into a of Helmetless Tackling Training (HUTT)—a training technique patient’s daily routine and reduces the need for visits to the doctor. he developed to teach players to “keep their heads out of Worn simply by adjusting a strap on affected arms, legs, elbows and the game”; knees, the ultraviolet (UV) radiation-free blue LED light therapy is • University of Washington and its commercial partner Vicis who enabled by 40 high-intensity blue LEDs with tailored light settings. have developed an as-yet unexplained material designed to Designed with the patient in mind, the battery-driven device can be mitigate the forces likely to cause concussion. used anytime and anywhere. Contact: Bill Kisliuk, University of California, Los Angeles. ‘‘Research proves that blue LED light treatment slows down rapid Tel: +1 (310) 206-0540. cell division and can also reduce inflammation,” says Matthias Born, [email protected]; http://www.ucla.edu; or: Head of Clinical Affairs at Philips Light and Health. “This research Alan Jacobsen, Architected Materials. has enabled us to develop, for the first time, an unprecedented Tel: +1 (310) 776-6500. treatment device that can make a real difference to the lives of [email protected]; sufferers of psoriasis vulgaris.” http://www. architectedmaterials.com LEDs for medical treatments require special features that exceed those of conventional LEDs, including high intensities and tailored adjustments such as pulsed LED light. Philips BlueControl is the Wearable Technology result of rigorous research with clinical and academic partners and a complex optimization procedure to enable medical grade features to New device for be included in a compact, easy-to-use design. Contact: Barbara Neate, Philips. Tel: +44 (1483) 293071. treating psoriasis [email protected]; http://www.philip.com Philips BlueControl is a clinically tested wearable medical device that employs blue light- Nanoﬁbres emitting diodes (LEDs) to control mild to moderate cases of psoriasis vulgaris. Psoriasis affects around 125 million people worldwide, of which Nanocellulose 80% suffer from the most common form, psoriasis vulgaris . This is a condition caused by the overly rapid division of skin cells products partnership accompanied by painful inflammation. The physical and psychological American Process, based in Atlanta, Georgia, effects of the skin disease can be debilitating, with patients suffering and Futuris Automotive of Melbourne, from scaly red plaques and peeling on visible parts of the body. Psoriasis vulgaris is an incurable chronic skin disease, so the plaques Australia, have formed a partnership to develop are recurring. Even if the disease symptoms are reduced or cleared ultra-strong, lightweight automotive structural during treatment, they can reappear on another area of the skin. components reinforced with nanocellulose. Philips conducted two clinical trials in partnership with the University Hospital of Aachen in Germany to investigate the efficacy Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology, Clark Atlanta and safety of BlueControl and its ability to reduce the symptoms of University, Swinburne University of Technology, and the USDA’s psoriasis vulgaris. In the second trial that took place over four Forest Products Laboratory will also be involved in the project. months (completed in June 2014), patients were treated for 12 The goal is to replace heavy steel structures within cars, such as weeks. The results showed a 50% reduction on average of the seat frames, with advanced reinforced polymers that have cost symptoms according to the Local Psoriasis Area Severity Index parity with traditional materials. The nanocellulose composites

©2015 International Newsletters Ltd 3 January 2015 http:// www.technical-textiles.net promise to be an economical substitute for expensive lightweight carbon fibre composites, the companies believe. The proprietary manufacturing process developed at American Process is said to be producing renewable, low-carbon-footprint nanocellulose with strengths equivalent to aramid fibres and at a price similar to conventional polymers. American Process plans to begin commercial sales of nanocellulose in early 2015, when its demonstration plant comes online in Georgia. “This new eco-material can both substitute and enhance the performance of petrol-based plastics in an environmentally friendly and market-competitive way,” says American Process Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Theodora Retsina. “Carbon fibres are extremely strong and light but expensive to produce and used only in the highest-end applications like aerospace and luxury vehicles. Nanocellulose has even lower weight than carbon fibres and is just as strong. With our manufacturing breakthrough, nanocellulose is a fraction of the price of carbon fibres. Cellulose is the most abundant natural organic material on Earth and it’s renewable and compostable. We did not invent nanocellulose, we made it less expensive, more thermally stable at high temperatures, and gave it functionality to blend with hydrophobic polymers—enabling market applications and opening the road to commercial production.” “Futuris continuously seeks out promising emerging technologies in materials science that can help us provide innovative, high-quality, “This is a significant milestone for Bionym,” said Chief Executive and cost-competitive automotive interior solutions,” adds Futuris’ Officer (CEO) Karl Martin. “We are establishing the Nymi as the de CEO Mark De Wit. “We sponsor [research and development] facto platform for persistent, trusted identity and this round of R&D for the most exciting technologies, like nanocellulose, which, financing is providing us with the resources needed to bring the we believe, will lead to the development of cost-effective platform to market.” composite materials that can challenge the latest advanced steels Like the developers of other wearable devices, Bionym has and other materials in terms of performance, manufacturability identified the need to create a third-party community to develop and cost.” apps that utilize its technology. A programme has been set up that Contact: Kim Nelson, PhD. American Process Inc. will allow potential development partners to receive a Nymi ahead Tel: +1 (404) 872-8807, x 213; of other buyers. [email protected] If the Nymi’s ECG authentication system can be successfully evolved, its long-term future is more likely to be as a software service sold across multiple wearable and smartphone platforms, Wearable Technology rather than as a discrete piece of hardware, the company believes. The cash investment will allow its developers to produce an initial production run to meet 10 000 pre-orders it has already received. Sensors provide These will be shipped before the close of 2015. Contact: Karl Martin, Chief Executive Officer, Bionym. biometric identity Tel: +1 (416) 977-3042. A wrist-mounted device that creates a unique [email protected]; http://www.bionym.com authentication based on a wearer’s heartbeat has attracted US$14 million in an investment drive towards commercialization. Wearable Technology The Nymi, developed by Toronto-based Bionym, can read an individual’s unique electrocardiogram ( ECG) signature for biometric identification. Muscle monitoring in Numerous wearables already carry biosensors, which monitor the user’s heart rate at rest and during exercise, but the Nymi employs a small space at Ohmatex ECG to measure and record the electrical activity of a wearer’s heart. This varies between individuals to such a degree that each person’s is unique Ohmatex has been awarded a €350 000 contract and can function like a cardiovascular fingerprint. with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop The Nymi bracelet could be used for a variety of identification muscle monitoring exercise suits for astronauts on applications such as accessing other wearable or smart devices, unlocking doors or cars and the authentication of contactless the International Space Station (ISS). payments. The device also incorporates a gyroscope and In near-zero gravity conditions, muscles deteriorate quickly unless accelerometer to enable gesture control. they are exercised intensively. This is serious issue for astronauts Contributors to the Series A funding round, which closed on 24 who spend at least two hours working out every day while in space. September 2014, included several venture capital firms, global credit In order to optimize the astronaut’s exercise programme, and card provider MasterCard and cloud-computing provider SalesForce. ultimately reduce muscle degeneration, ESA is engaging Ohmatex to

4 ©2015 International Newsletters Ltd January 2015 http://www.technical-textiles.net further develop a technology that measures the effect of the astronaut training exercises in space and monitors the impact of weightlessness on the body. To achieve this Ohmatex will be working closely with Marco Cardinale, Head of Research for Team GB in the 2012 Olympics, drawing on his extensive experience of measuring muscle activation patterns in elite athletes, and with researchers and doctors at the department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. During the two-year contract wearable monitoring technology will be developed and integrated into an exercise suit to be worn byastronauts during training. Following successful implementation the aim is that the garment will be used on the ISS during exercise programmes. To gain a deeper insight into muscular activity, three garment integrated sensor technologies will be combined: • electromyography (EMG) sensors to detect muscle activation; • near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) sensors to detect changes in oxygen content in selected muscle groups; • plethysmography sensors to measure limb circumference as an indication of changes in muscle volume. The combined data will then be used to analyse muscle activity and optimize training. The study will also generate new knowledge about fluid shifts in the legs, making the technology of interest in cases of heart and kidney failure and pre-eclampsia. Not only is there exciting development work ahead for Ohmatex, but it also opens-up commercial spin-off opportunities in telemedicine and health monitoring, where smart textiles are currently gaining ground. This is the second time ESA has recognized the expertise of Ohmatex in integrating sensing technology into textiles and in its ability to work collaboratively with experts in sports physiology and biomedical research to produce meaningful measurements of muscle activity. Contact: Christian Dalsgaard, Ohmatex. Tel: +45 (86) 2051-68. [email protected]; http://www.ohmatex.de

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Wearable Technology Enter The Dash Munich, Germany-based Bragi’s The Dash will receive the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2015 Best Of Innovation Award in the Headphones product category in January 2015. The Dash is billed as the world’s first completely wireless hearable – smart headphones that offer freedom of movement, maximum comfort and amazing sound – all while audibly coaching, tracking movement and capturing key biometric data. The market launch is planned for the first quarter of 2015. Bragi was founded in 2013 and subsequently almost 16 000 supporters worldwide have pledged more than US$3.3 million on Kickstarter to see the product developed. This makes it the most successful European crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter ever. “We are over the moon with the response that we have been receiving.” says Nikolaj Hviid, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Bragi GmbH. “We are honored that CEA and the industry recognize our vision of wearable technologies, and we look forward to sharing our great product innovation at the 2015 International CES .” Contact: Marijo Sarac, Bragi. Tel: +49 (89) 21548-4215. [email protected]; http://www.bragi.com Light-Emitting Diode Technology Energizing the intensive care room Philips has developed a media-enabled luminous ceiling that can simulate energizing daylight to comfort critically ill patients. The light-emitting diode (LED)-based ceiling has been introduced into clinical use by the Charité Campus Virchow Clinic in Berlin as part of a stress-reducing concept called ‘Parametric Spatial Design’. Hospital staff can enter the desired parameters and the large, sky- like area creates visuals and light moods customized to the situation of individual patients, enabled by software from ART+COM. The clinic has implemented the concept in two of its intensive care patient rooms to enhance the healing environment for patients who “We find that particularly in such critical areas as the intensive are severely ill. care department, lighting design is becoming increasingly important Research shows that most people will be treated in an intensive in the patient environment,” explains Roger Karner, Managing care unit at least once in their life. In many cases the lives of patients Director of Philips Lighting DACH. “Together with our partners we are at risk as they await an operation or start to recover after can provide healthcare establishments like the Charité Clinic with surgery. turnkey lighting solutions that are tailored precisely to the specific needs of their patients.” Contributing facors The luminous ceiling concept from Philips combines the natural, In this critical phase they often find their surroundings irritating and dynamic rhythm of daylight and the effects of gentle colourful light hostile. Clinical research has shown that factors like loud noise, and visual content. It incorporates 15 400 LEDs and extends from inappropriate lighting conditions and social isolation can increase the the ceiling onto the wall in front of the patient’s bed, filling their field risk of patients in intensive care slipping into a shock-like state. of view completely. Until now there has been very little data available about the health- In addition to the RGB (colour) LEDs, high-performance LEDs related effects of hospital rooms with a controllable atmosphere. with a warm-white and cold-white colour temperature have also For this reason, intensive care physicians, psychologists and sleep been integrated into the ceiling. They are able to produce light researchers at the Charité Clinic in Berlin will continue to work output that is comparable with the light from a clear sky in summer. together with its partners Graft architects and the ART+COM It is this high level of light output that brings the biological effect of design studio to use the integrated spatial concept for research over light into the intensive care room. It supports the patient’s natural the coming twelve months. day/night rhythm and helps to promote healthy sleep patterns. The Parametric Spatial Design concept was developed by Graft Contact: Barbara Neate, Philips. architects, the ART+COM design agency and the Charité Clinic in Tel: +44 (1483) 293071. Berlin in a joint venture and funded by the German Federal Ministry [email protected]; of Economy and Technology (AiF). http://www.philips.com

programme is designed to enable innovative SMEs to collaborate Wearable Technology with key market players to commercialize new technologies. Seventy projects were chosen for funding in 2014. The combination of Texisense fabric pressure sensors, Ohmatex Textile sensors for expertise in textile connection technology and Proteor’s specialist knowledge and sales network will result in a new ready-for-market comfortable spinal braces innovation not currently provided by any other spinal brace A new T-shirt with textile pressure sensors is manufacturer. This will be a first for the market and for scoliosis therapy and will create a breakthrough for both clinicians and their being developed by a French-Danish consortium teenage patients. to increase the comfort and effectiveness of Contact: Christian Dalsgaard, Ohmatex. spinal braces worn by teenagers suffering Tel: +45 (86) 2051-68. [email protected]; http://www.ohmatex.de from scoliosis. Spinal scoliosis – abnormal curvature of the spine – occurs in almost 2% of teenagers, mainly girls, and spinal brace treatment is Wearable Technology required for 15% of cases. However in approximately 25% of cases the braces fail to achieve the corrective effect if they are not worn as prescribed, or if they are not fitted correctly due to errors at the Three-dimensional design stage. Braces that are ill-fitted are uncomfortable to wear and there is printed arrays bound currently no feedback on how effective the braces are when they are being worn. Both factors can reduce teenagers’ motivation to for space wear them. RedEye, a Stratasys company based in User experience Minneapolis, Minesotta, USA, has partnered with Proteor SAS, the market leader in France for spinal brace NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to manufacturing and distribution, is collaborating with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) Texisense and Ohmatex to improve the three-dimensionally (3D) print 30 antenna array wearability and user experience for brace wearers and provide an supports for the Formosat-7 constellation alternative to the ordinary treatment by spinal braces. observing system for meteorology, ionosphere EmBrace t-shirts will look and feel like a standard cotton t-shirt but the data provided by the integrated Texisense fabric and climate (COSMIC-2) satellite mission. pressure sensors will enable the braces to be fitted more accurately Scheduled for launch in 2016, the COSMIC-2 mission marks the from the outset and allow daily monitoring of their effectiveness. first time 3D-printed parts will function externally in outer space. Increased comfort and daily monitoring has the potential to improve The antenna arrays will capture atmospheric and ionospheric data to the compliance of teenagers, give valuable insight into the help improve weather prediction models and advance effectiveness of the treatment and increase the chances of spinal meteorological research on Earth. curvature correction. In order to keep the project on time and on budget, JPL needed The project was successfully submitted to the European EuroStars an alternative to machining the parts out of astroquartz – the programme with the help of the French consultancy firm Dynergie material traditionally used for the arrays. RedEye produce 3D- and was ranked 10 th out of 215 eligible applications. The EuroStars printed parts that could handle the complex array designs and also be strong enough to withstand the demands of outer space. The custom-designed parts were made using fused deposition modelling (FDM) – the only additive manufacturing process able to meet the project’s strength and load requirements. JPL chose SABIC’s durable Ultem 9085 thermoplastic that has similar strength to metals like aluminum but weighs much less. “Using FDM for a project like this has never been done before and it demonstrates how 3D printing is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry,” says Jim Bartel, Vice President and General Manager at RedEye. “If this technology can be validated for use in the harsh environment of outer space, its capabilities are seemingly endless for projects here on Earth.” While Ultem 9085 has been well-vetted in the aerospace industry and is flammability rated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), it has not previously been used or tested for an exterior application in space. The material passed qualification testing to meet NASA class B/B1 flight hardware requirements. To protect the antenna array supports against oxygen atoms and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a layer of NASA’s S13G protective paint was applied to the parts. “The intricate design of the arrays and the durability of Ultem Spinal brace manufacturing at Proteor. 9085 made additive manufacturing a perfect choice for this project,”

©2015 International Newsletters Ltd 7 January 2015 http:// www.technical-textiles.net said Joel Smith, Strategic Account Manager at RedEye. “Not only did IDG Europe says that the switch from aluminium for the general- it prove the strength of 3D-printed parts, but using FDM to build purpose stand-alone solar panels also meets calls from the market these supports significantly reduced time and cost.” for lightweight units with high environmental resistance. Contact: Melissa Hanson, Red Eye. “As defence forces continue to carry more and more electronic Tel: +1 (952) 294-3643. systems into dangerous, inhospitable and isolated places, the need to [email protected]; http://www.stratasys.com keep portable electronic devices operable at all times is essential,” says Göran Johnson, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at IDG Europe. “With PowerArmor, we think we have a winning combination of Smart Fabrics solar panels that supply power and provide protection. We believe its chances are very good, especially as the two individual products were already being independently considered – and in some cases used in practice – by various special forces around the world.” IDG Europe introduced the PowerArmor concept at IESMA 2014 , the conference and exhibition on Innovative Energy Solutions for Military Applications that took place in Vilnius, Lithuania, on November 12-14. IESMA is organized by the NATO Energy Security Centre of Excellence and the DELTA State Military Scientific Technical Center of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. Contact: Nathali Donatz, DSM Dyneema. Tel: +31 (46) 476-6466. [email protected]; http://www.dsm.com Recycling Potential with liquid lay-down Satellite dishes are the latest end-products being proposed for nonwovens based on recycled carbon fibre composites—employing the same technology that is used to make various components for the BMW i Series electric vehicle programmes. Protection for solar panels Speaking at the recent Composites Engineering exhibition in A solar panel system for defence forces provides Birmingham, UK, Martino Lamacchia, sales engineer at Cannon – an Italian-headquartered machinery builder with annual sales of ballistic protection and is lighter and more €200 million and 1000 employees globally – provided details of the portable than systems currently available. The €2-million, 50% European Union (EU)-funded Cresim project, which PowerArmor unit from IDG Europe has low- is developing advanced new processes for manufacturing with reflectance solar panels protected by an recycled carbon fibre (rCF). Cannon’s technology is based on a series of integrated products – anti-ballistic surface made in an exceptionally carbon reinforcement handling systems, dedicated preformers, high- strong unidirectional fibre-reinforced composite. pressure dosing units for epoxy resins, multi-component mixing The composite is based on DSM’s Dyneema ultra-high molecular heads with different injection and distribution methods, weight polyethylene fibre (UHMWPE) and replaces the aluminium polymerization presses and the relevant handling systems for normally used for portable solar panels, which provides no preforms and moulded parts. ballistic protection. It has developed three versions of its Estrim (epoxide structural IDG says this is the first time that solar panels have been given reaction injection moulding) system with highly reactive fast-curing such a high level of ballistic protection. Panels made in Dyneema also epoxide resin, which have been used in the Cresim project to cut weigh around 20% less than aluminium panels of the same thickness. resin transfer-moulding (RTM) cycle times from 30 minutes down to DSM Dyneema and IDG Europe cooperated closely on IDG’s 3–3.5 minutes. development of the dual-purpose system, intended to power electrical and electronic equipment used by armed forces in the field. BMW i3 and i8 The combination of ultra-light, low profile (anti-glare) solar panels BMW is reported to have been using Cannon’s preforming and anti-ballistic panels with Dyneema results in a system capable of equipment at its plant in Landshut, Germany, since 2000, first for the providing energy and protection ranging from fragmentation to high- roof of the M5 and more recently for the i3 and i8 electric vehicles. power rifle ammunition. BMW and resin supplier Huntsman have submitted rCF nonwoven

8 ©2015 International Newsletters Ltd January 2015 http://www.technical-textiles.net mats to the Cresim project for explorations of their to not only mitigate their risk, but to get their end-products to reimpregnation potential. market more quickly.” An advanced liquid laydown technique has been developed Contact: Eduardo Martinez, Marketing and involving a high-pressure mixing head and robotic distribution of Communications Manager, FibeRio. Tel: +1 (956) 207-5448. the resin to successfully and rapidly impregnate the rCF [email protected]; http://www.fiberiotech.com nonwoven sheets. Cannon reports that all of the major players in the field of automotive composites parts have visited its research and Nanotechnology development (R&D) Laboratory in Italy during the past few months, to run tests with their own raw materials and moulds or to discuss the supply of equipment for both composites research and Graphene for composites production departments. Lamacchia provided no further details of the satellite dish that Graphene developer Haydale of Ammanford, is currently being developed as new uses for rCF continued to Carmarthenshire, is to acquire fellow UK be sought. company EPL Composite Solutions (EPL) of The latest forecasts for global demand for carbon fibre show it is likely to grow from 46 000 t in 2011 to 140 000 t in 2020. Loughborough, a specialist in advanced Capacity will be increased from 102 000 t in 2011 to 129 000 t composite polymer materials. in 2015, with the potential for further growth to 185 000 t Haydale and EPL, have already collaborated on a number of by 2020. projects, and the acquisition is a significant step towards Contact: Maurizio Corti, Cannon. Tel: +39 (2) 9653-1. monetizing Haydale’s proprietary technology for http://www.life-cresim.com incorporating graphene and other nano-enhancing fillers into composites. The introduction of nanofillers to EPL’s product range will Nanotechnology produce the added benefits of impermeable barriers, conductivity and reduced weight with improved strength and stiffness. These FX improves benefits are set to have a great impact on the development of future composite structures, with significant potential for the aerospace FibeRio reach and automotive industries. FibeRio’s core Forcespinning nanofibre Tailored functionalization technology has become synonymous with high- Haydale’s tailored functionalization capability allows solutions to be output melt and solution nanofibre production, customized on three levels – raw material, functional group and level of functionalization – which adds a powerful addition to the features and the company says the introduction of its and benefits of the products EPL produces for its clients. new Fiber Engine FX Series takes the With recent estimates from market research firm IDTechEx economics of nanofibre production to levels forecasting a market value of $80 million for nano-enhanced never before achieved. composites by 2018, graphene functionalization promises to generate significant revenues as nano-reinforcement is adopted by Fiber Engine FX makes the benefits of nanofibres are now greater numbers of composites manufacturers. commercially viable for a greater variety of nonwoven media Over the past 22 years, EPL has developed a reputation for applications, including air filtration, liquid filtration, apparel, delivering solutions for commercial applications of advanced acoustic insulation, energy, packaging and other markets. It offers the polymer composite materials. With customers spanning the oil and reliable, low-cost deployment of a wide range of polymers in a fine gas, water and energy sectors as well as the marine and fibre format. transportation markets, it provides an entire development cycle The Fiber Engine FX was designed with a modular and from applied research, product design, process development, product expandable architecture and it is therefore configurable for 1.1 m testing and certification, to setting-up manufacturing plants. EPL also (FX1100) or 2.2 m (FX2200) line widths. With a total output of up works with OEMs and end-users to develop composite solutions to 200 g.min –1 , and compatible with line speeds of up to 200 that show demonstrable technical, economic and environmental m.min –1 it can be installed in-line with meltblown or other benefits over existing structures currently manufactured using nonwoven processing equipment for the manufacture of composite traditional materials such as steel, aluminium, wood and concrete. or standalone media. “The rapidly growing composites industry is known for the early For a media designer, this means extracting maximum benefit from adoption of new technologies and for its willingness to embrace the high-performance nanofibre layers where it actually matters – disruptive technology and introduce innovative new materials,” said whether it is improved hydrostatic head, air permeability, filtration Haydale Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ray Gibbs. “The Aerospace efficiency, pressure drop, breathability, conductivity, or acoustic and Corporation in the USA, has already independently verified that thermal impedance that is required. graphene functionalized using our patent-applied-for process can “The Fiber Engine FX is the culmination of extensive enable the development of lighter, stronger composite materials and engineering and process development work to match the high the acquisition of EPL gives us direct access to this emerging, performance needs of our diverse customer base and their growing market. The credibility of our plasma process has been applications,” said Ellery Buchanan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO). further boosted by the UK National Physical Laboratory (NPL), “Our customers depend on us for a complete solutions package, which has recently confirmed the capability of our process to add

©2015 International Newsletters Ltd 9 January 2015 http:// www.technical-textiles.net compatible chemical groups on the surface of GNPs: known as functionalization. “We have acquired EPL because it provides us with an immediate route into the fast-moving and dynamic composites market together with a substantial R&D resource and dedicated composite and polymer expertise to boost our current in-house capability. Our strategy is to provide solutions that enable the commercialization of graphene in key strategic markets, and our recent collaboration with the speciality inks and coatings solutions provider, the Welsh Centre for Printing and Coating (WCPC), addresses one of these key strategic markets. The acquisition of EPL, together with our WCPC association, gives us entry into the two substantial industries known for the early adoption of new technologies. This offers us exciting opportunities for securing revenues and consolidating our position as a leader in the commercialization of graphene.” EPL has 17 scientists and technicians providing Haydale with access to a well-regarded and recognized research and development (R&D) operation. Recent work conducted by Haydale in collaboration with EPL using a standard epoxy resin mixed with Haydale functionalized GNPs achieved over a 200% improvement in ultimate tensile strength, using just 2% loading. Owing to the brittle nature of unreinforced composites, these results could have significant implications for the development of future composite structures, demonstrating the potential in future aircraft design for weight saving and the consequent environmental benefits such as reductions in carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions. Contact: Ray Gibbs, Chief Executive Officer, Haydale. Tel: +44 (1269) 842946. video. In the latter mode, the camera is permanently turned on and [email protected]; http://www.haydale.com every two minutes, the video images are stored temporarily and can be later transferred to a BMW plant server for permanent storage at the push of a button. This is a great advantage, especially when Wearable Technology malfunctions cannot be reproduced clearly. “During the term of the pilot project, we’re planning to add a Industry 4.0 at BMW video call feature so that a problem can be discussed with the responsible development areas right there and then,’ explains BMW is running a pilot project at its US plant in Project Coordinator Dr Jörg Schulte. Spartanburg to determine if wearable So far, the results of the pilot project have been so promising that technology could improve and accelerate the an application in the final assembly of series vehicles is being workflows in quality assurance. considered. In this area, inspections are carried out according to test plans and then documented on stationary computer terminals. Workers are using Google Glass to record test series with pre- Depending on a car’s equipment package, between 10 and 25 series vehicles, allowing them to take photos or videos as a means of individual tests have to be completed. To document them, the documenting potential deviations, providing a better, faster and testers have to go back and forth between the car and the terminal. clearer way to analyse and correct them later on. ‘With Google Glass, the testing staff could stay right at the vehicle, Right now, BMW is assessing in which form this innovative pilot look at the test plans on the device’s integrated display and sign application could be transferred to other production areas and sites. them off via voice control. So both hands would be free to conduct The project is an element of the BMW Group’s current Industry 4.0 the tests at all times,’ Schulte adds. campaign, set up to evaluate how new technologies can be applied to Some of the approaches summarized under the term ‘Industry provide optimum support to workers in production and planning. 4.0’, which are currently the subject of public debate, have previously The purpose of the pilot project at the Spartanburg site is to been introduced at BMW or are in their rollout stage. One example improve the communication between quality testers at the analysis is sophisticated human-robot systems that can significantly improve centre of the pre-series production on the one hand and the ergonomically unfavourable work procedures. As the digital and the development engineers on the other. BMW runs a complete check physical worlds grow closer together, new opportunities arise that of each pre-series vehicle to ensure the required premium quality of allow people to cooperate more efficiently in BMW’s global all vehicles in the subsequent series production. Previously, potential production network. Mobile assistance systems will offer improved issues identified in pre-series vehicles were documented in writing. support to production workers in the future. In all these efforts, the Often enough, the problem description was too vague, prompting focus is not on the technical feasibility, but on the specific benefit in further questions from the responsible specialist department in production technologies that actually reaches the end-customer. about one in four cases. Contact: Saskia Eßbauer, BMW Communications The smart eyewear now makes it possible for the staff at the Production Network. analysis centre to add photos and video sequences to their reports. Tel: +49 (893) 821-8364. The optical head-mounted display is fitted with a camera that has [email protected]; three different settings – photos, video recording and background http://www.press.bmw.de

10 ©2015 International Newsletters Ltd January 2015 http:// www.technical-textiles.net Diary of Events JANUARy 2015 JUNE 2015 18–20 January 2–4 June Techtextil Symposium/Techtextil Pavilion @ Intersec Techtextil North America 2015 Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Houston, Texas, USA. Jana Hösselbarth, Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH. Kari Martin, Messe Frankfurt Inc. Tel: +49 (69) 7575-6712. Fax: +49 (69) 7575-6541. Tel: +1 (770) 984-8016 ext.2428. Fax: +1 (770) 984-8023. [email protected] [email protected] http://www.intersecexpo.com http://www.usa.messefrankfurt.com

MARCH 2015 JULy 2015 4–5 March 4–11 July Nonwovens for High-performance Applications Nanotexnology 2015 Cannes, France. Thessaloniki, Greece. Jill Gwinnutt, International Newsletters Ltd. Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Tel: +44 (870) 165-7210. Fax: +44 (870) 165-7212. Tel: +30 (2310) 998091. [email protected] [email protected] http://www.intnews.com/nhpa http://www.nanotexnology.com

MAy 2015 SEPTEMBER 2015 4–7 May 11–13 September Techtextil Hightex 2015 Frankfurt, Germany. Istanbul, Turkey. Michael Jänecke, Messe Frankfurt GmbH. Teknik Fairs Ltd Co. Tel: +49 (69) 7575-6710. Fax: +49 (69) 7575-6541. Tel: +90 (212) 876-7506. Fax: +90 (212) 876-0681. [email protected] [email protected] http://www.messefrankfurt.com/frankfurt/en/besucher/welcome/mes http://www.hightex2015.com severanstaltungen/messen/textile-technologies/techtextil2015.html 16–18 September 11–13 May Dornbirn Man-Made Fibers Congress Smart Fabrics & Wearable Technology Dornbirn, Austria. San Francisco, California, USA. Austrian Man-Made Fibers Institute. Stephanie Whitman, Marketing, Smithers Apex. Tel: +43 (1) 319-2909-40. Fax: +43 (1) 319-2909-31. Tel: +1 (207) 781-9616. [email protected] [email protected] http://www.dornbirn-mfc.com http://www.smartfabricsconference.com 24–26 September 13–15 May Techtextil India European Wound Management Association Conference Mumbai, India. London, UK. Bijoy Varghese, Messe Frankfurt EWMA Secretariat. Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd. Tel: +45 7020-0305. Fax: +45 7020-0315. Tel: +91 (22) 6144-5960. Fax: +91 (22) 6144-5999. [email protected] [email protected] http://www.ewma2015.org http://techtextil-india.co.in

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Wearable Technology Two-year battery life with Assure A smart band, the Assure, designed for remote medical monitoring was showcased for the first time at the recent Innovate UK 2014 event held in London, UK. The most noteworthy feature of the new device, developed by Cambridge-based Acticheck, is a battery life that provides power for two years without recharging. This overcomes a key drawback of existing wearable devices, which typically require daily or weekly recharging. “The biggest problem with smart wearable devices is that they need recharging regularly,” says Karl Gibbs, Acticheck founder and smartphone to care providers when these move beyond accepted General Manager. “By minimizing processes within the wristband – parameters. This represents an improvement on existing systems and without compromising on quality, style or functionality – we that typically require the wearer to actively press a button. have managed to create a device with a battery life of two years “Assure negates the need for bulky, unattractive pendant alarms which is unparalleled in this market.” and gives wearers the confidence to celebrate their independence Acticheck is currently moving to secure patents for its battery both inside and outside of their home,” Gibbs says. management technology. The device is set for commercial release in the spring of 2015 and The device is intended for use in the remote monitoring of the Acticheck has committed that it will sell for less than £200 for its elderly and patients with serious long-term medical conditions, or first two years on the market. lone workers. It continuously analyses a series of physiological data, Contact: Karl Gibbs, Acticheck. including body temperature and pulse, with its on-board sensors. It Tel: +44 (845) 2575-080. will send an automatic notification via an in-home base station or [email protected]; http://www.acticheck.com

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