The partners will first build on Solvay’s Radel foam and sandwich materials, used on Airbus A350 and Solar Impulse, and will later expand to products that Solvay is developing.
Commercial aircraft or high-speed trains are increasingly seeking to replace heavier plastics and metal structures. Lightweight applications range from the cabin to ducting and trolleys and help to improve energy efficiency.
Game changer
‘Our alliance is a game changer in making high-tech foams available on a large global business development manager aerospace & composites scale,’ said Armin Klesing, at Solvay's specialty polymers global business unit. ‘Part makers will benefit from greater flexibility in their designs and from uniting strength and insulation performance at the highest level of fire resistance.’
3A Composites expects additional foam extrusion capacity in the United States to come on stream 2016 and will continue to service the market with its existing product lines.
