Research of An Innovative Bio-Honeycomb Composite for Light Structure Applications

Sandwich-structured composites are of a high strength-to-weight ratio, good compressive, bending and shear stiffness. These characteristics make it a desired choice for light rigid structures. Serving in all aspects of our daily life, it has broad applications in airplanes, vehicles, building and construction, furniture, sport products, packing and shipping, etc.

A wide range of materials are used for the cellular cores, which include NOMEX, aluminium, paper, fibre glass, structural foam, etc. Meanwhile, honeycomb and corrugated-wave are two major cellular core structures. Honeycomb structure has the highest efficiency in terms of strength-to-weight but is expensive in manufacturing. It is predominately used in airplanes, high-performance cars and yachts, furniture, etc. Corrugated-wave structure is better in rigidity and shear modulus. It is widely used in building and construction, packing and shipping, etc.

This research is to investigate an innovative eco-honeycomb cellular core material primarily used for sandwich composite products. It uses a recycled hard biomaterial from a food waste for the core structure. Taking advantage of a natural geometric shape, the bio-core structure possesses a combined effect of the honeycomb and corrugated-wave structures, which has excellent not only mechanical properties but also other physical properties, such as thermal and acoustic insulation. All these characteristics give its products outstanding advantages in material mechanical and durability properties, economical cost, and exceptional environmental hospitality.

Additional notes:

A candidate of the interest in composite manufacturing and product application is highly expected.