Aluula Composites, a technology firm specializing in advanced materials, has announced a partnership with the University of British Columbia (UBC) to pioneer recycling applications for its cutting-edge high-performance composite materials based on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The goal of the collaboration is to develop world-first recycling applications for Aluula’s high-performance composites.
Composite materials are traditionally manufactured by bonding together different layers of core materials and outer films to make fabrics for various applications. Using a patented fusion process, Aluula Composites has developed a unique way to fuse high-tech fibers and technical films together without the use of glues, creating not only extremely light, strong, and durable fabrics but also materials that are ready for recycling.
The Composites Research Network at UBC Vancouver has established the ability to compress Aluula material off-cuts and end-of-life products into uniform, lightweight, and ultra-durable panels. Throughout the recycling process, the specialized UHMWPE fibers of the original Aluula materials are kept intact, resulting in extraordinary, fiber-reinforced composite panels that are ten times stronger than those molded from virgin UHMWPE. These panels are suited to many tasks where strength, weight, abrasion resistance, and low friction are desirable, from backpack back panels to low friction wear plates.
Aluula is developing and refining applications for these panels with UBC Manufacturing Engineering (MANU) students that not only exploit the inherent light and strong material properties but also result in an end product that can be recycled again and again, lengthening the material’s lifespan for years to come.
“Aluula has proven that sustainability and astounding performance can coexist without compromise. We look forward to leading the composite industry towards a more sustainable future,” said Aluula Composites COO John Zimmerman.
This partnership between Aluula Composites and UBC has the potential to revolutionize the recycling and production of composite materials, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the industry.