UTMOST - Modelling of biobased composites in crash applications

Research Project, 2022 – 2024

Biocomposites are replacing traditional plastics and composites due to their superior environmental potential and often lighter weight. From being used in hidden and non-structural applications, they are being explored in A-surface and body work parts. However due to their microstructure, current CAE crash analysis tools are not sufficient to, on the one hand, explore the vast field of possibilities during material selection, and on the other hand, to predict accurately the behaviour of the components in injury prevention analyses, e.g. airbag deployments or head impact analysis. These hinders cause inappropriate material choice or promote sustainable alternatives to be set aside. The goal is to deliver a methodology for crash analysis, which is both predictive and efficient enough for industrial use. We will also develop a leading competence in the Swedish industry for crashworthy and sustainable composite materials, therefore complementing the leading position on composites-related crash safety research in Europe that Chalmers and Volvo Cars have established during the last decade. The results of the project will also serve as example and model to other industries on how biocomposites can be used in critical applications, therefore strengthening Swedish competitiveness in developing advanced and sustainable products.

The project has a duration of 30 months with the ambition to start 1 May 2022, it is based on research started in the EU project Mummering[1]. The total budget is 5836 kkr, out of which 2913 kkr (50%) are applied for from FFI - Trafiksäkerhet och automatiserade fordon. Coordinator and main applicant of the project is Volvo Cars. Additional partners are Chalmers University of Technology, Beta solutions and IAC.

[1] https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/765604