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U Kentucky CAER receives $1M for carbon fiber research

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Department of Energy (DOE) grant to continue their research in developing low-cost, high-strength carbon fiber. The center’s Carbon Materials Technologies Group received the award for a project titled “Precursor Processing Development for Low Cost, High Strength Carbon Fiber for Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel Applications.”

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Audi introduces new CNG A3 Sportback

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They are made of fiber-composite materials and, in keeping with Audi’s lightweight construction philosophy, each weighs just 26 kilograms (57.3 The ultra high-strength outer shell comprises two layers: an inner layer of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and an outer layer of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP).

Audi 504
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Audi advances in-plant human-robot cooperation; CFRP roof installation

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“Adhesive application with robot assistance,” abbreviated from the German as KLARA (Klebstoffapplikation mit Roboter-Assistenz), provides support with the installation of roofs made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) in the new Audi RS 5 Coupe. Click to enlarge. All equipment components were preassembled on a base plate.

Audi 150
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DSM partners with PlastiComp to develop bio-based long fiber thermoplastic (LFT) composites based on EcoPaXX

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Initial compounding, molding and testing of carbon-fiber reinforced EcoPaXX was successful in establishing benchmark composites for high-temperature (up to 200 °C) and structural applications. These composites are well-suited to weight optimization efforts in the automotive industry for fuel savings and lowered emissions.

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Daimler awards Quantum contract to develop advanced high capacity hydrogen storage systems for fuel cell vehicles

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has been awarded a purchase contract from Daimler AG for ultra-light weight hydrogen storage tanks. Under this contract, Quantum will develop 10,000 psi (70 MPa) high capacity carbon fiber composite hydrogen tanks that are designed specifically for potential use in future Mercedes-Benz fuel-cell electric vehicles.

Hydrogen 199
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PEM fuel cell X-ray CT study details effects of temperature and moisture on performance

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Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells require precise temperature and moisture controls to be at their best. The performance of polymer-electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) and other multiphase flow technologies is significantly dependent on liquid-water management. —Shum et al. Credit: Berkeley Lab).

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DOE issues $10M incubator FOA for batteries, power electronics, engines, materials, fuels and lubricants

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Carbon Fiber or Lightweight Materials. VTO is seeking projects that address the major challenges to developing and commercializing carbon fiber composites for lightweight structures. Most critical is the cost of the carbon fiber. The cost to manufacture the carbon fiber is high.