Fidamc's participation in the Advanced Manufacturing 2024 Fair was a great success, as it consolidated its position as a benchmark in the composite materials sector. During three intense days, the Fidamc stand became a key meeting point for professionals, students and companies interested in innovation and advanced manufacturing technologies.
From the beginning of the event, the strategic location of the stand allowed a continuous influx of visitors. The variety of profiles that approached was remarkable: from technology companies and experts in composite materials, such as members of SAMPE, the North American Society for the Advancement of Materials and Process Engineering, to young talents, especially Formula Student students, excited to discover the latest trends in the sector.
The diversity of attendees not only enriched the interactions, but also opened doors for future collaborations. In addition, the meetings arranged with key companies provided added value, consolidating strategic alliances.
Talk on the European project MC4: recycling of composite materials
One of the highlights of the fair was the talk given by María Ariño, entitled: “Reuse of multilayer remains of carbon fiber composites”, based on the European project MC4 (Multi-level Circular Process Chain for Carbon and Glass Fibre Composites). This project addresses a crucial problem: the recycling of carbon fiber and glass fiber composites, which mostly end up in landfills at the end of their useful life. Every year, more than 110,000 tons of carbon fiber parts and 4.5 million tons of glass fiber are discarded.
The aim of the MC4 project is to revolutionize this scenario by developing a multilevel circular process that addresses both short- and long-term applications. This approach aims not only to minimize the environmental impact, but also to ensure a positive economic impact by achieving a recycling rate of 60%. In addition, European manufacturers are encouraged to develop their own proprietary recycled material processes. Maria's presentation not only managed to fill the room, but also captivated the audience with its clarity and relevance, underlining the importance of moving towards sustainable solutions in advanced manufacturing.
The show environment was also conducive to discovery and learning. Advanced Manufacturing 2024 brought together an impressive array of innovative companies and projects, highlighting advances in tooling, cost reduction and solutions applied to composites.
As for the next edition of Advanced Manufacturing, Fidamc already has improvements in mind. Larger scale projects will be presented, such as the activity of the Advanced Manufacturing Center in Cadiz, which has recently started to operate.
In summary, Fidamc's experience at Advanced Manufacturing 2024 was highly positive, not only for the impact generated, but also for the opportunities for growth and collaboration that are on the horizon. Undoubtedly, another step towards a more efficient and sustainable advanced manufacturing future.
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