With the clamor for green and sustainable materials getting louder in the past years, a chemical research company in South Carolina responds with a recyclable alternative to carbon fiber, Tegris.
Milliken & Company created the thermoplastic composite, reported to also be tougher and cheaper than pure carbon fiber–it does not damage upon impact, and it is cheaper by 10%. Tegris can also be a composite partner for carbon fiber. In an equal stiffness comparison demonstrated by Milliken, the product of a Tegris-carbon fiber sandwich is 18% lighter, 178% stronger, and 55% cheaper than pure carbon.
Applications in Various Industries
Tegris is seen to be a valuable material for various industries. It is currently being used as a vehicle protector by the U.S. military, providing enhanced durability and protection for military vehicles in challenging environments. The material’s toughness and impact resistance make it ideal for such high-stress applications.
In the automotive racing industry, Tegris finds itself being used in Powerstream Industries’ Aero splitter and door panels. The lightweight yet strong properties of Tegris contribute to improved performance and safety in racing vehicles. The material’s ability to withstand high impacts without damage is particularly beneficial in this high-speed, high-risk sport.
Riddell, makers of the lightest shoulder pads in the football world, also makes use of Tegris. The material’s strength and lightweight nature help in creating protective gear that does not compromise on mobility or comfort for athletes. This is crucial in a sport where both protection and performance are paramount.
Expanding Uses and Future Potential
The breakthrough product is also used in Tumi travel baggages, having its very own line called Tegra-Lite. These travel bags benefit from Tegris’s durability and lightweight properties, making them ideal for frequent travelers who need robust yet easy-to-carry luggage. The Tegra-Lite line has been well-received for its combination of strength, style, and practicality.
Milliken sees more uses for Tegris in the coming years. The material’s unique properties open up possibilities in various fields, including aerospace, where weight reduction is critical for fuel efficiency and performance. Tegris could potentially be used in the construction of aircraft components, offering a lighter and more cost-effective alternative to traditional materials.
In the field of sports equipment, beyond football, Tegris could be used to manufacture protective gear for other high-impact sports such as hockey, lacrosse, and even extreme sports like snowboarding and skateboarding. The material’s ability to absorb and dissipate energy upon impact can significantly enhance the safety of athletes.
Moreover, Tegris’s recyclability aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability in manufacturing. As industries continue to seek eco-friendly alternatives, Tegris presents a viable option that does not compromise on performance. Its potential applications in consumer electronics, such as protective casings for laptops and smartphones, could also be explored, providing durable and lightweight protection for everyday devices.
In summary, Tegris represents a significant advancement in material science, offering a sustainable, strong, and cost-effective alternative to carbon fiber. Its current applications in military, automotive racing, and sports equipment demonstrate its versatility and potential. As industries continue to innovate and prioritize sustainability, the future looks promising for Tegris and its expanding range of uses.
via Gizmag
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
