UK Composites Strategy

Manufacturing is a central theme for development for the UK Government, especially within the current economic environment. With this in mind, the UK Government Composites Strategy looks to develop this industry, which plays an essential role in terms of innovation, lightweight and durable products which are used in man applications, from the most modern aircraft to blades on wind-farms.

The Strategy outlines the role Government, together with UK Business, can raise awareness of commercial opportunities, as well as shape the technical and economic conditions, to be at the forefront of worldwide composites manufacture. The co-ordinated approach of this strategy brings together UK Regions, industry, research institutes and academia, to develop a national centre of exellence. At the forefront of the policy is increasing access to training and developing smarter practises in terms of composites recycling. The BPF will be a key partner moving forward, together with our members. The Strategy can be downloaded HERE.

The BPF is already involved in a European Project called "EURECOMP" , which has an overall objective to develop and promote the solvolysis process as a suitable route for recycling and re-use of thermoset-based composites production wastes and end of life products. Work is currently underway to establish current recycling streams. A detailed presentation as to the technology is available from Tim Marsden; [email protected].