R-Nano Lab addresses the design and manufacturing of thermoplastic-based filaments for additive manufacturing applications. The latter encompasses the compounding and extrusion of thermoplastic-based pristine and composite materials. Thus, R-Nano Lab considers both the recycling of conventional thermoplastics and the production of high-performance (e.g., PEEK, PEKK) and (nano)composite (e.g., Carbon-based inclusions) filaments.
Carbon fibre sizing
A variety of sizing formulations can be developed onto carbon fibres, in order to enhance the adhesion with epoxy or thermoplastic matrices. The addition of nanomaterials has proven to improve either the mechanical or electrical properties of composites. Sensing capabilities can also be introduced with the correct amount and type of nanomaterial.
Besides the production of fibers, attention is also given on treatment and sizing. RNano lab has designed, installed and operated 2 pilot scale lines, one for the surface treatment of carbon fibre through electropolymerisation of MAA and one for its sizing through taylor made nanoenhanced sizing solutions. In that way a recycled CF can regain its dwindled mechanical properties and improve adhesion with a variety of matrices.