Mono-Material Sandwich seat-back structure

In many cases fiber-reinforced polymers are ideal for lightweight design. However, they are generally difficult to recycle. Self-reinforced mono-materials are an alternative to conventional fiber reinforced composites. Their lightweight design potential can be further increased by using specialized process technology, and by combining them with thermoplastic foams based on the same polymer. The presented seat-structure demonstrates the possibilities of processing mono-material structures as interieur materials for automotive applications. The presented approach aims to enable conventional industrial units by slightly adjusting parameters and molding technologies. The key is to choose the right morphology (foam, fiber, compact, fabric, sandwich) for the site of application. The overall aim of conserving resources is achieved by enabling a complete recycling of materials without downcycling, while also maximizing the potential of lightweight design with just one material. One key feature of these material class is its exceptional energy absorption potential. The exhibited mono-material sandwich seat-back structure was developed as part of the PassEnger-Project (EUREKA) in collaboration with Comfil ApS, Exipnos GmbH, UNIST, DSC and SAMWOO.