Composite materials

Composite materials

Hygraner has always paid particular attention to composite materials; in particular to those in carbon fiber.

The research carried out by our Start Up allowed us to modify both the basic thermosetting epoxy resins and those already toughened. Both are used in the impregnation of fabrics, or carbon threads: prepreg, or wire.

The addition of Graphene has led to the birth of a new range of aesthetic, structural and / or high modulus prepregs, with mechanical performance (resistance to impact, traction, abrasion, interlaminar fracture toughness properties (G1c) etc.) never before achieved. In some cases, this translates into a substantial reduction in the weight of the products.

Furthermore, Graphene has improved the electrical and thermal conductivity of the products, regardless of the type of texture, thickness, or weight.

Carbon Fibre Pre-Preg with Graphene
Carbon Fibre Pre-Preg with Graphene
SEM image of an epoxy resin in the pre-dispersion phase of Graphene

The pre-preg was made with both “Hot-Melt” and “Solvent” technology.

In the Automotive sector, parts of racing car chassis were made; for Aerospace and Avionics, structural components, shaped components resistant to atmospheric discharges (lightning), shielding electromagnetic interference, thermally dissipative, and electrically active.

In the processes of winding carbon threads (filament winding) substantial improvements have been achieved in terms of sealing and impermeability + 20%, with a weight reduction (of thread) equal to 15%.

Carbon fibre components with Graphene for Formula E cars

Further products, with different types of epoxy or phenolic resins have been developed for pultrusion and RTM techniques.

Processing of carbon fibre pre-preg with Graphene
Processing of carbon fibre pre-preg with Graphene

For the automotive sector, we have made components for series and racing cars and motorcycles.