resin New generation of matrix resin: lower-weight components for the automotive industry Leveraging the synergistic combination of matrix expertise, process know-how and an especially tailored adhesives portfolio, Henkel is able to offer a comprehensive range of sophisticated composite solutions for the automotive industry. W ith the development of its new polyurethane matrix resin, Loctite MAX 3, the world market leader in adhesives, sealants and functional coatings has taken a further important step toward the fully automated mass production of components based on glass and carbon fibre composite technology. Resin .......................... p25 Design ....................... p32 CFRP .......................... p34 Natural fibres ....... p36 Sustainability ..... p40 Process .................... p42 3D printing ............. p45 View ............................ p48 Feature Automotive Will future cars be made of composite materials? tek and the sports car builder and development service provider Roding Automobile. The technology showpiece adopted for the development of this innovative process was a lightweight yet high-strength carbon roof segment for a 950-kg sports car, the superlight Roding Roadster R1. Lightness in weight with enormous strength With weight reduction in modern vehicles having become essential - particularly in the face of strict emission requirements - lightweight construction technologies are constantly gaining ground in the automotive industry as an avenue for decreasing both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Performance and efficiency are also criteria that drive development in motor sports. Composite materials based on carbon fibres Innovative process In collaboration with KraussMaffei, Henkel has developed a process for the manufacture of composite components using high-pressure RTM (HP-RTM) technology that creates a surface quality good enough for automobile exteriors. The partner network also includes carbon fibre manufacturer Zol- Fig. 1: The showpiece of the project is a carbon roof segment for the Roding Roadster R1 No91 August - September 2014 / jec composites magazine 25http://www.selcom.com