#Composites

2024-10-24

Flipts & Dobbels opens new pathways for biocomposites within VIBES Initiative

Through its involvement in the VIBES project, Flipts & Dobbels has contributed to the VIBES collaboration’s latest breakthrough: the successful manufacture of a carbon and natural fibre panel made with a bisphenol-free epoxy resin using resin infusion techniques. This achievement marks an important milestone in the development of sustainable, high performance composite materials.

Flipts & Dobbels has been supporting the VIBES project for over four years, working with industry innovators to advance the development of bio-based composites by leveraging recyclable epoxy resins, lignin-based carbon fibres and natural flax reinforcements. These materials align with the VIBES goal of reducing environmental impact whilst maintaining high performance standards.

As part of the VIBES collaboration, manufacturing specialists Juno Composites explored key innovations, including the impact of moisture content in natural flax textiles on mechanical performance. This research, which paralleled some of the Alliance European Scientific Council ’s own work on moisture sensitivity, emphasizes the need for relying on the technical know-how of flax reinforcements manufacturers.

“The VIBES project has demonstrated that to fully realise the potential of flax fibres in performance composite applications, all aspects of the entire flax fibre production process, from seed selection to textile manufacturing, should be considered. With more than a hundred years’ experience of working with flax, our company is proud to support the continuous improvements delivered by the VIBES project.” said Caroline Flippts, Flipts & Dobbels.

The Alliance for European Flax-Linen & Hemp remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting its members like Flipts & Dobbels, as they lead the way in developing greener solutions.

JEC World 2026 returns with an unprecedented content program

Recognized worldwide as the leading trade exhibition for composite materials and their applications, JEC World returns on March 10-12, 2026, at Paris Nord Villepinte as the most ambitious edition to date, in line with its motto “Pushing the limits”. As the must-attend event for the composites industry, JEC World will offer an unprecedented program, blending conferences, markets insights, technical sessions, awards, and above all, a unique experience and invaluable connections.

KARL MAYER at JEC: Multiaxial reinforced CFRP pultrusion profiles are picking up speed in the mobility sector

KARL MAYER Technical Textiles will be showcasing exciting new application potentials for multiaxial non-crimp fabrics in combination with the pultrusion process at the upcoming JEC in Hall 5, Booth C 46. The advancement of the tried-and-tested pultrusion process enables the cost-efficient production of complex CFRP multi-chamber profiles, which are used in the CETROVO high-speed metro. The world's first carbon-intensive lightweight rail vehicle of this type is designed for speeds of up to 140 km/h.

Engineering depth and diversity for composites

Airbond is the latest member of the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA) to receive recognition for contributions to the composites industry. The engineering firm based in Pontypool, South Wales, has just received the Make UK Energy and Sustainability Award for its Lattice 3D Printing project.

Beyond the wardrobe – innovative cotton takes the spotlight

Cotton can do more – a lot more. Cutting-edge textiles and high-tech products made from 100% cotton prove just how powerfully performance and sustainability can come together. That very surge of innovation is front and centre at the 38th Bremen Cotton Conference, taking place March 25–27, 2026, at Bremen’s Parliament on the historic market square – culminating in a bold and dedicated closing session on Friday. In the spotlight: performance upgrades for pure cotton, smart strategies for circular textile waste solutions, and pioneering concepts for demanding technical applications. From natural fibre–reinforced composites to highly effective flame-retardant solutions, cotton steps out of the closet and shows the future potential woven into every fibre.

Keeping print inclusive: Empowering women in the print industry

Across all industries, cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace is increasingly recognised as valuable and essential to long-term success. However, despite the print industry’s significant advancements in technology and innovation, visible representation of women remains limited. As the sector grapples with low recruitment, it’s important to challenge outdated perceptions. Creating real change, however, requires collective effort - no single company can do it alone.

Texprocess 2026: market overview for strategic future investments

At Texprocess 2026, 200 exhibitors from 28 countries will be represented. In a challenging market environment, the leading trade fair is a constant and reflects progress in textile processing – driven by automation, digitalisation and AI. In addition, international start-ups present their ideas and meet partners from industry and research. Techtextil takes place in parallel with an optimised hall layout.