Proof of Concept of Energy Efficient Processing Technology for Wool Natural Fibre Composites to Create a Sustainable Modular Construction Panel (EEWC-ModularPoC)

EEWC-ModularPoC proposes to research 1) the technical and commercial feasibility of a wool-based composite 2) a rapid and cost effective Open Cavity Press (OCP) composite processing technology 3) the suitable of the resultant technology as a sustainable construction material. The ultimate aim is to produce a fire retardant, woven wool, based composite part within a sub 10 minute cycle time without using prepreg, an autoclave or expensive tooling. EEWC-ModularPoC proposes to provide a significant reduction in processing energy and capital cost to enable wool-based composites to be cost effectively commercialised in lightweight modular construction applications (home office pods, classrooms, food outlet, agricultural etc.) and other low-medium volume applications.

The current UK £4.39bn composite product market (2019 Lucintel report for Innovate UK) has the opportunity to grow to £12bn by 2030 (Ref: UK Composites Market Study). The highest growth sectors are aerospace 25% CAGR, oil & gas 55% CARG and construction 11% CARG (Ref: National Composites Centre). To meet this growing market the proposed EEWC-ModularPoC project will provide a flexible and cost effective manufacturing process for a range of composite modular construction products.

The EEWC-Modular OCP process is extremely flexible to enable greater customisation and rapid entry to new markets. The processing station will consist of a high pressure and high temperature flexible EPDM diaphragm tool to force and cure low viscosity bio-resin into a dry textile in an open cavity tool.

The innovative EEWC-Modular OCP process aims to achieve a void content of less than 2%, with extremely fast cycle times, and at significantly lower energy costs (at least 50% less without the use of an automated production cell) than many alternative autoclave production systems.