29th DDc Lunch Retreat with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christina Scheffler

Fibers and Polymers – Important Ingredients for Shaping Future Materials

The future development of fiber-reinforced composites focuses on using materials efficiently, lightweight components, achieving high mechanical performance, extending service life, and ensuring recyclability. This involves the use of both new and recycled fibers and matrix materials, as well as the establishment of more sustainable production methods. A key aspect of material development is the design of the interphase between the fiber and the matrix that is known to be the origin of composite failure, significantly affecting their mechanical properties. In our application-oriented fundamental research, we are addressing different approaches for fiber surface structuring and tailored coatings for both polymer-based and mineral-based composites. Examples include the use of biodegradable glass fibers and bio-based coatings, the simultaneous spinning of thermoplastic and glass fibers to create hybrid yarns, use of recycled fibers as well as bioinspired interphase structuring for carbon fiber reinforced concrete.