Crosslinked and PRESS formed reinforced thermoplastics

Important results from the project

A new material and manufacturing concept with fibre-reinforced crosslinked nylon has been tested. Prototypes were manufactured in different combinations, which was also a goal of the project. The crosslinked nylon reinforced with fiberglass shows a considerable reinforcement of the material. The material also has less shrinkage and thermal expansion, which can be important in many applications. The mechanical properties are very promising. It has also been shown that the material is better suited for the aeronautics industry and luxury cars than for car production in high volume.

Expected long term effects

Crosslinked nylon has been found to have significantly less shrinkage and thermal expansion than non-crosslinked nylon. The crosslinked nylon also increased significantly and had similar process properties as non-crosslinked nylon. This makes it an excellent material for making local reinforcements of metal. However, the results of the techno-economic report showed that the price picture of the crosslinker (now and in the future) makes it more suitable for the aviation industry and luxury cars than high-volume car manufacturing.

Approach and implementation

In WP2, NEXAM compounded granules of three different material combinations. The different combinations were used for both prototype development (WP3) and characterization (WP4). Hat profiles for prototypes were pressed by Gestamp, as well as plates for adhesion tests. In WP3, the material combinations were pressed on both plates and prototypes. These plates and prototypes were analyzed in WP4. In WP5, a technology economics was done with input from all participants where e.g. process times / costs are important if the material / concept is useful for CEVT.