Manufacturing Composites with Dual Structural and Energy Storage Functions

Transferring the functions of supercapacitors into structural composites has the potential for significant weight savings which is attractive in industries where weight is a significant cost driver such as aerospace or electric vehicles. I intend to progress the manufacturability of structural composites with energy storage functions with the aim of raising the Technology Readiness Level of structural supercapacitor technology to level 3 (a functional validated prototype).
The ability to create composite structural supercapacitors is established; however manufacturing presents a significant challenge. I intend to focus my research on developing design tools for the forming process, carry out manufacturing trials, developing a design and manufacture protocol and carrying out numerical simulations to assist formability. This work will involve using resin transfer moulding equipment and hot presses along with resin characterisation and testing equipment.
The project will involve significant collaboration between the University of Bristol and Imperial College London and will be a key research area of the EPSRC Future Composites Manufacturing Research Hub.