ACM CRC Bulletin

Revolutionising the Blue Economy: Explorer Lisa Blair OAM and ACM CRC Partners Launch Landmark Project to Advance Sustainable Marine Composites

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:08:29 GMT

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – The global marine industry is facing an unprecedented materials crisis. Right now, an estimated 35 to 40 million fibreglass boats worldwide are reaching their end of life 1 . With no scalable pathway for recycling, these vessels are becoming a significant environmental burden, dumped in mangroves, scuttled in deep water, or destined for landfills where they will persist for centuries.

A Collaborative Solution for Next-Gen Hulls

In a unique joint research partnership, world record explorer Lisa Blair OAM, the Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC (ACM CRC), UNSW Sydney, and Steber International are announcing the launch of a solution-focused research project: Sustainable Composites for Next Gen Boat Hulls.

This two-year, $1.9 million research partnership aims to investigate the viability of Basalt Fibre (derived from volcanic rock) and current bio-resins as a scalable solution to outperform fibreglass and provide a circular solution to the growing industry problem.

"Composites are transforming mobility across aviation, marine, automotive and beyond – lighter, stronger, more efficient,” said Luke Preston, CEO, ACM CRC.

“But as we accelerate their adoption, we have a responsibility to ensure we are not trading one environmental problem for another. The ACM CRC and its partners are committed to ensuring that the composites revolution is built on a truly circular foundation.”

The Environmental Toll of Traditional Fibreglass

For 70 years, Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) has been the gold standard for boat building. However, recent research has revealed a dark side to this durability. A study by the University of Brighton found 7,000 shards of fibreglass in just 1kg of oyster flesh in the UK’s Chichester Harbour 2 .

To put the scale of the problem into perspective: Chichester Harbour is home to roughly 12,000 vessels 3 . By comparison, the 2023 Boat Registration and Ownership Statistics reported that Australia has over 925,000 registered boats, 33% of which are fibreglass, totalling over 300,000 fibreglass vessels in Australia 4 . If a small harbour in England is seeing the direct impacts of fibreglass on the oyster population, the implications for Australia’s vast coastline and seafood industry are immense.

"The reality is that high volume research into the long-term impacts of fibreglass just does not exist yet; we are only seeing the tip of the iceberg," said Lisa Blair.

"But the lack of historical data does not change the fact that a solution needs to be found and ‘we’ as an industry need to transition towards a circular economy.”

Basalt Fibre and Bio Resins: A High-Performance, Circular Alternative

A primary solution lies in Basalt Fibre. Derived from natural volcanic rock, basalt is not just a "green" alternative; it is a performance upgrade. Basalt fibre is up to 10 times stronger than fibreglass, naturally fire resistant, and, most importantly, 100% recyclable.

When paired with modern Bio Resins, basalt fibre offers a viable pathway to a truly circular maritime economy. This research will evaluate this material combination, focusing on mechanical performance, scalability and circularity. As part of the practical validation, Steber International is constructing a dedicated test hull to investigate real-world scenarios and the repairability of these materials. This sits alongside focused materials research, led by advanced materials expert Scientia

Professor Gangadhara Prusty at AMAC @UNSW , and a comprehensive Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) conducted by circular economy specialists SOENECS.

“We are identifying the right bioresins and basalt fibres, available in sufficient quantities and with sufficient properties, to demonstrate a solution allowing the entire boat industry to offer more sustainable products,” according to Scientia Prof. Prusty.

“By coming up with an engineered solution, prototyping and testing it, and then having it demonstrated in an incredibly challenging environment, we’ll be producing data to show boatbuilders that sustainable composite materials are a viable option.

“The team will open source this information so that the entire industry benefits.”

In addition to this, Lisa is also independently funding an Environmental Impact Study to be completed by SOENECS through her Arctic Impact Project.

“This project highlights a critical materials challenge, with millions of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) vessels reaching end of life without a viable circular pathway. The transition to alternatives such as Basalt Fibre and advanced bio-resins offers a credible route to redesign material flows in the marine sector," Said Prof. David Greenfield, Founder of SOENECS.

“For SOENECS, it is both an honour and an exciting opportunity to deliver detailed Life Cycle Assessment and environmental impact modelling, and to work alongside Lisa Blair, a renowned sailor and environmental advocate. This ensures decisions are grounded in robust evidence.

“This work can define a scalable circular blueprint for marine composites, shifting the industry from linear dependency to regenerative design.”

The goal is to be able to share with the industry a verified and scalable solution so we can transition to a sustainable future together.

The Arctic Impact Project: New World Record Putting Innovation to the Test

Following the initial research, Lisa Blair will build her new expedition yacht from these sustainable materials before setting off for her next record. Lisa is one of Australia’s modern explorers and holds the record as the fastest person to sail solo, nonstop and unassisted around Antarctica aboard her current yacht Climate Action Now, spending 92 days at sea and facing down waves the height of 5-storey buildings and cyclonic winds.

Building on this, Lisa is announcing her new world record attempt: ‘The Arctic Impact Project’. Lisa will be sailing in July 2027 to become the first person to sail solo, nonstop and unassisted around the Arctic Circle in one season. The 8,000 nm journey will see Lisa tackle freezing conditions, dodge icebergs and spend an estimated 3 months solo at sea.

Lisa said: “While climate change has opened the path for this record, my focus is on the solutions we can create together. This project is a multi-layered mission: driving innovation through our sustainable composite research, empowering communities via a global schools program and ‘Climate Action Now’ events, and advancing science by documenting the health of our remote oceans. By building my vessel from Basalt fibre, I’m showing that adventure can, and must, be a vehicle for change.”

Ensuring a Commercially Viable Transition

For industry leaders like Alan Steber, the focus is on a seamless transition. By finding a material that requires minimal changes to existing factory workflows, the partnership is ensuring that the next generation of Australian-built boats is as commercially viable as it is environmentally responsible. Steber International is already paving the way towards sustainability in the marine market with their ‘Re Use, Re New, Re Fit’ program, a sustainable approach to vessel refurbishment and repowering, and encourages developments such as electric hybrid power systems.

“Steber International is excited about being involved in the Advanced Sustainable Marine Composites project,” said Steber, MD at Steber International.

“My father, Bruce Steber, was involved with testing Resins and Gelcoats in 1958-1962. He applied experimental resins, gelcoats and other FRP products from Monsanto, Ferro corporation, and ANZOL paints into various moulds, producing small runabouts. Feedback was given to the supplier laboratories from real factory floor conditions. I am proud of our past input supporting the industry, especially where it has advanced to today.

“We are currently building Recreational, commercial, and Defence vessels and hopefully one day we will see a complete, sustainable, reliable, affordable, and safe composite material for all industries, hence I put my hand up to be part of the team.

This research partnership marks a new era for Australian sovereign capability, providing the "Circular Blueprint" that the global marine industry has been waiting for.

1 https://boatingindustry.com/top-stories/2017/01/12/aging-recycling-hulls-a-looming-crisis/

2 https://theconversation.com/abandoned-fibreglass-boats-are-releasing-toxins-and-microplastics-across-the-world-143857

3 https://peninsulapartnership.org.uk/environment/chichester-harbour/

4 https://bia.org.au/news/2023-boating-data-report-card-released/

ENDS

ACM CRC welcomes engagement from industry and research partners interested in collaborating on advanced composites manufacturing initiatives. Contact us here .

9 Questions with Rounak Saha Niloy

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:48:57 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Rounak Saha Niloy is a PhD student at UNSW Sydney , working in collaboration with the ARC Training Centre for Automated Manufacture of Advanced Composites (AMAC). He completed his Master’s by Research in Mechanical Engineering at UNSW Canberra at ADFA, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).

His research lies at the intersection of computational design, advanced manufacturing, and marine engineering. He focuses on developing optimisation frameworks for composite structures, integrating machine learning, CFD, and evolutionary algorithms to address complex, multi-objective design problems. His work also explores automated fibre placement (AFP) and data-driven manufacturing, aiming to improve both design efficiency and structural performance.

By combining domain expertise with modern computational tools, Rounak aims to bridge the gap between design and manufacturing, enabling more efficient and scalable engineering solutions for high-performance applications.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

Research Program 3 – Simulation, Performance Prediction

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD focuses on developing an efficient optimisation framework for process parameter selection in automated fibre placement (AFP) manufacturing. The goal is to systematically improve manufacturing quality and performance by identifying optimal process settings rather than relying on trial-and-error approaches.

To ground this work in a practical application, I use the design and manufacture of a shape-adaptive composite marine propeller as a case study. This provides a realistic and data-rich environment to study how AFP parameters influence structural performance, enabling me to build and validate a robust optimisation tool that can be extended to broader composite manufacturing applications.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

I became interested in this field after completing my Master’s. During my postgraduate studies at UNSW Canberra, my work was primarily computational, where I developed a strong foundation in optimisation techniques. However, I was keen to apply these skills to a more practical, engineering-driven problem.

At the same time, my undergraduate background in Naval Architecture motivated me to stay connected to marine applications. This project sits precisely at that intersection. It allows me to apply optimisation methods within a real manufacturing context while working on composite marine propellers, which aligns closely with my original discipline. That combination of computational optimisation and applied naval engineering is what drew me to this field.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

What attracted me to this field is the strong alignment between the problem itself and my technical background. It sits at the intersection of optimisation, advanced manufacturing, and naval architecture, which are the areas I have been building expertise in. More specifically, I was drawn to the challenge of moving beyond purely computational work to something that has direct engineering impact. That combination of methodological depth and practical significance is what made the field particularly compelling to me.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I aim to develop a robust and generalisable optimisation framework for AFP that can systematically determine optimal process parameters for complex composite structures. The broader goal is to move AFP manufacturing away from heuristic, trial-and-error approaches toward a more data-driven and predictive methodology.

In terms of challenges, there are a few key problems I want to address. First, AFP involves a large number of interdependent process parameters, and their combined effect on structural performance is highly nonlinear and often uncertain. Capturing this relationship accurately is difficult, especially with limited and noisy experimental data. Second, composite manufacturing is inherently heteroscedastic, meaning the variability in outcomes changes across the design space, which makes conventional modelling approaches less effective. Third, there is the practical constraint of limited experimental budgets, so the optimisation strategy needs to be sample-efficient while still achieving reliable global performance.

By tackling these challenges, I hope to produce a framework that not only improves the manufacturing and performance of shape-adaptive composite marine propellers, but can also be extended to other advanced composite manufacturing applications.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term ambition is to apply my academic expertise to real-world engineering challenges. I aim to bridge the gap between research and industry by translating theory into practical solutions that improve performance and benefit society.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The best part of being an ACM CRC PhD student is the collaboration and industry exposure. I get to work with both academic and industry teams, which keeps the research practical. The networking is also valuable, as it helps me connect with people across different areas and learn from them.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Be clear about why you want to do it and be prepared to work across multiple areas. Composites manufacturing is not just theory. It involves materials, processes, experiments, and data. Things will not always work as planned, so patience and persistence matter. If you can stay adaptable and keep the bigger picture in mind, the experience is very rewarding.

Q.9 Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

One thing that might surprise people is that my work sits across quite different areas. I started in naval architecture, moved into optimisation during my Master’s, and now work on composite manufacturing. Being able to connect these fields and apply them to a real engineering problem is something I take pride in.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

AI gets physical as manufacturing looks good again

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 03:53:47 GMT

Reports last month that Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is attempting to raise US$100 billion to buy up manufacturing businesses are a sign that perhaps a bigger game is afoot.

As the value of software on its own diminishes, thanks to AI coding assistants, businesses that actually make things have been made more interesting.

I share a belief with certain forward-lookers that progress is pushing not just the value of software creation, but labour, logistics and energy towards zero (in the long run.)

Whether or not this makes me fun at parties is for somebody else to say, but I’m in both the AI optimist and the sustainable abundance camps.

Until just this year, enterprise-quality “vibe coding” would’ve been impossible. The resulting SaaSpocalypse has been terrible for vendors, but great for their (in some cases former) customers.

When an e-commerce business founder wrote that Claude Code allowed his team to build replacements for certain digital tools – saving maybe a quarter of a million dollars through nine days of AI-assisted coding – I cheered.

I remember 15 years or so ago when a manufacturer might’ve paid a million dollars a year for an ERP that was, quite frankly, not fit for purpose.

(Incidentally, we at ACM CRC, are developing our own ERP creation tools, where a company can input their needs and a pretty good ERP system is spat out.)

The abovementioned apocalypse has led certain folks to muse about whether automated coding means their money is safer in the real (read invested in the physical) world. The bits (software) vs atoms (tangible products) paradigm is shifting.

This shift was already underway pre-Claude Code, in a few ways.

The AI revolution was never purely bits versus atoms, if you consider the massive capital investments in data centres and everything in and around them.

Serious investments are being made in a growing number of physical AI companies, such as Bezos’s Project Prometheus (raising a reported $US 6.2 billion late-last year), Yann LeCun’s AMI Labs (which raised $US 1 billion last month.)

In these cases and others, it’s bits AND atoms.

Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick’s group of companies – chasing “physical automation for food, mining and transport” – was literally rebranded as Atoms last month. And readers will have followed the development of all-purpose (including factory work) Optimus robots by Tesla’s Elon Musk over the last five years.

Which brings us back to the big bucks and Bezos story of last month: his reported courting of sovereign wealth funds, JPMorgan and others to raise $US 100 billion for a vehicle that will buy up manufacturers and “seek to use AI technology to accelerate their path to automation."

The fact that Bezos hasn’t commented publicly on the “manufacturing transformation vehicle”, or on Prometheus makes both even more interesting.

Bezos is co-CEO of Prometheus, alongside Vik Bajaj (formerly of Google X.) It is Bezos’s first formal operational role since he left as Amazon CEO in 2021

The relationship between the startup and the buyout fund is not yet clear. The Financial Times reported in February that the fund “would invest in groups that Bezos and Bajaj anticipate will be hit by its technology.”

Prometheus’s early moves include acquiring agentic AI startup General Agents, it reportedly seeks to apply AI to aerospace, automotive and computer manufacturing, and it appears to have several employees specialising in computational fluid dynamics.

According to FT this week, the current $US 10 billion fundraising round is nearing completion, and will value the startup at $US 38 billion.

Other than that, the company has no products and no website, so exact plans are anybody’s guess.

One conclusion of the shift towards bits and atoms is that as some of the value evaporates from previously safe-looking software businesses – due to the ease of starting a new one or of customers creating bespoke enterprise tools – there’s also an opportunity.

As Joe Fath from venture capital firm Eclipse put it, “AI is a powerful complement” in physical industries, making things “faster, cheaper, less capital-intensive, and ultimately driv[ing] better returns. But it's not a full replacement in the way it will be across large parts of the service economy.”

My own guess is that, in the bigger picture, the masters of the universe see manufacturing as critical for creating and capturing value (as it always has been, even if appreciation for it waxes and wanes.)

I’m optimistic that as AI gets better and automates service and other roles, it will lift productivity, increasing everybody’s living standards. Along the way, progress will see the cost of inputs like energy, labour and transport head towards zero.

The world’s richest are in a race to dominate the important intersection of the digital and physical worlds, identifying that whoever can develop the best, lowest-cost tools will own a pretty darned important market.

So where does that leave Australia? I would argue that we double down on smart manufacturing, and that those who run manufacturing businesses do their absolute best to make use of the current and upcoming AI offerings.

Australia is uniquely positioned to dominate in this new Industrial era, with our abundance of materials, land for generating solar and other energy sources, and no shortage of smart people: all critical inputs for manufacturing! All while our traditional blockers to manufacturing such as cost of labour and logistics costs (our tyranny of distance) drastically reduce in cost.

Luke Preston is CEO of the ACM CRC. This article was first published at InnovationAus. The original version can be viewed here.

New project addresses summer spike in shark attacks along Australian coasts with smart composite surfboard fins

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 23:59:33 GMT

A recently launched research project funded by the Australian Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) addresses the risk of shark attacks on surfers by developing smart surfboard fins with embedded shark-deterrent technologies.

Using advanced composite manufacturing techniques, the research project will develop a shark-repellent design integrating miniaturised sensors, electromagnetic systems, and illumination features directly into the surfboard fin structure. The composite fin will be a novel product with increased safety while maintaining hydrodynamic performance.

The project is being led by Gowing Bros Ltd, UNSW Sydney, and the University of Wollongong. Its recent launch is timely as New South Wales experiences a notable increase in shark encounters .

“With shark activity on the rise, the project takes a proactive approach to coexisting safely with marine predators, combining cutting-edge materials science with surf safety innovation,” John Gowing, Executive Chairman at Gowing Brothers Ltd, said.

“The project demonstrates how innovatively combining advanced manufacturing, safety innovation, and practical commercialisation can address real-world marine safety challenges.

“It positions Australia as a sustained leader in high-tech surfboard manufacturing on the global stage and is an exciting example of how Australian technology can have far-reaching positive impacts.”

Co-funded by the ACM CRC, the project involves strategic investments in embedded sensors, additive manufacturing equipment, and surfboard components, as well as exploration of advanced manufacturing techniques. This includes automated processes for fin and fin box production, surfboard shaping (to incorporate shark-deterrent fins and sensors), composite material deposition, and fin finishing, alongside prototype building.

Commenting on the research initiative, Luke Preston, CEO at ACM CRC, said: “As Australia’s leading research centre for composites manufacturing, we are proud to bring together the greatest academic and industry minds to prove how innovative composite manufacturing and technology can have life-changing impacts.

“By embedding functional technologies into lightweight, composite materials we can support both innovation and practical application, delivering the next generation of surfboards at a time when shark attacks are apparently on the rise.

“This is a world first that is strengthening the capabilities and resilience of Australian surfboard manufacturing, giving us a competitive edge in a crowded global market.”

With worldwide potential, the technology could offer significant economic benefits for Australia. By commercialising smart surfboard fins, the initiative could boost the Australian composites manufacturing sector, create skilled jobs, and contribute to national GDP.

See what else is happening in and around ACM CRC: View other projects .

Collaborate Innovate 2026

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:28:02 GMT

Collaborate Innovate is Cooperative Research Australia's annual conference held at a different theme and location each year. The purpose of the conference is to connect members of the wide community engaged in industry-research collaborative entities and all other stakeholders.

The Collaborate Innovate Conference is the premier annual gathering dedicated to driving excellence in industry-research collaboration across Australia. Each year, we convene at a unique location under a fresh theme, bringing together the full spectrum of stakeholders – from CRCs and research hubs to government, industry and professional service partners.

Designed for board members, CEOs, COOs, research leads, commercialisation executives, government decision- makers, industry participants and emerging scholars, this event provides unparalleled opportunities to build new partnerships, share best practices, explore cutting-edge research outcomes and chart pathways to real-world impact.

Whether you’re leading a CRC, advising on growth centres, engaging with rural R&D, or enabling the next wave of innovation-driven entrepreneurs, the Collaborate Innovate Conference invites you to join the conversation, expand your network and help shape Australia’s collaborative research future.

Event Name: Collaborate Innovate 2026

Event date: 20 to 22 May 2026

Location: The University Club of Western Australia -

1 Hackett Drive, Perth, WA 6009

Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC appoints Luke Preston as new CEO

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 23:58:33 GMT

The Australian Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) has announced that its board has appointed highly experienced engineering manager and entrepreneur Luke Preston as the new full-time CEO, as the CRC builds on the successful first three years of its ten-year term.

Preston’s career includes roles as Head of Engineering and Drone Operations at Quickstep Group and Industrialisation Director at Carbon Revolution–both leading Australian companies in composites manufacturing–as well as Manager, Manufacturing Engineering-General Assembly at Tesla Motors in the United States.

He has been acting CEO since January, following the departure of Dr Steve Gower.

“It's an absolute privilege to be appointed as CEO. I began my career in manufacturing at Ford Australia, being given opportunities that may no longer exist. I feel a responsibility to re-create pathways for Australians to contribute through manufacturing,” said Preston.

“The CRC is three years into our 10-year journey. We have established strong foundations and are well positioned to lean into the fast-changing landscape in AI-enabled manufacturing.

“Australia is blessed with strong capability through the skills and smarts of our workforce, combined with an abundance of resources to refine and manufacture into products for Australians and the world. ACM CRC is excited to accelerate the R&D required to enable the execution.

“This Australian value creation and self-sufficiency allow Australia to navigate the changing economic order, where products will be made by the smartest nations, not those with the lowest cost of labour.”

ACM CRC began operations in January 2023, and has supported and successfully executed industry-led projects with applications including surviving the incredibly high temperatures in orbital rocket launches and hypersonic flight, automating manufacture of smart surfboards, and structural health monitoring for offshore structures.

The CRC involves over 30 partners, and has long-term goals including transforming Australia’s established composite technologies capability into a world-class, highly automated, digitally enabled network of designers, manufacturers and service providers, as well as enabling $8.3billion of direct economic benefit and 1,500 new jobs. Its research priorities are transport, energy, advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0.

“Through the composite sector we are leading the transformation of Australia's manufacturing into digital environments, embracing tools such as digital twins to optimise capital returns and to train AI-enabled robotic and agentic AI to analyse the large and complex datasets of Australia's advanced manufacturers, optimising decision making,” said Preston.

“As the world moves towards sustainable abundance, we must ensure that Australia embraces the change, locking the value in for Australia and ensuring that we all share in the productive advantages. The alternative, if we lag behind, is a model where our costs are high and we cannot compete, driving Australian dollars offshore where the abundance will be enjoyed.

“ACM CRC is committed to growing Australia's manufacturing industry, and as such we would love to hear from manufacturers who want to join us on this mission.”

ACM CRC welcomes engagement from industry and research partners interested in collaborating on advanced composites manufacturing initiatives. Conta ct us here .

Composites Conference 2026

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 22:27:16 GMT

Australia’s Leading Composites Conference

Save the Date: Wednesday 17 – Thursday 18 June 2026

Hosted by ACM CRC partner Composites Australia, this annual conference brings together leaders, innovators and practitioners from across the composites sector.

Mark your calendars for two action-packed days - Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 June 2026 - featuring industry insights, technical presentations and interactive displays.

The conference delivers valuable strategic perspectives on operating and growing a composites business, alongside practical insights into successful collaboration across the composites industry.

The program is carefully curated to showcase leading composites practitioners and thought leaders through engaging presentations exploring diverse industry and technology case studies.

Whether you’re looking to gain fresh insights, sharpen your skills, expand your network or spark new ideas, this event offers it all.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired, informed and connected. We look forward to seeing you there.

Buy tickets here: COMPOSITES CONFERENCE | Composites Conference Australia

2026 Composites Industry Awards - Open for Nominations

The Composites Industry Awards 2026 serve as a platform to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements within the composites sector. Acknowledging the importance of excellence, commitment and ingenuity, these awards honour both individuals and organisations that form the sector.

Nominations are open for achievement of organisations, apprentices, staff, associates and innovative products that signify progress and achievement in the industry. Composites Australia extends an invitation to all its members to nominate deserving candidates for the 2026 awards nominations are now officially open.

Awards will be presented on June 17 at the 2026 Composites Conference dinner.

Visit this link to submit your nominations: Industry Awards – Composites Australia

Event Name: Composites Conference 2026

Event date: 17 and 18 June 2026

Location: Novotel Geelong - 10-14 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong

Tech Event - Composites Australia and Biesse

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:27:36 GMT

Join ACM CRC Partner Composites Australia, and Biesse for a half-day TECH and networking event at the company’s Australian headquarters in Wetherill Park, NSW.

Biesse is a global leader in machinery and integrated solutions for processing composites, plastics, wood, glass, stone and metal.

DELEGATES WILL SEE:

Live demonstrations of advanced materials equipment designed to streamline workflows and improve production efficiency, including:

CNC machining centres for composite and polymer processing. Multi-axis routing and drilling systems.
Integrated intralogistics and material sorting solutions.
Advanced automation and digital controls in operation

To register and learn more information, visit the Composites Australia website .

Event Name: Tech Event - Composites Australia and Biesse

Event date: 24 February 2026

Location: 473 Victoria St, Wetherill Park, NSW 2164

Collaborating on the future of composites manufacturing

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:51:27 GMT

ACM CRC’s 2025 Partner Meeting was alive with energy and enthusiasm, as delegates from industry, research and government gathered to reflect on their composite manufacturing achievements from the past year, and to unveil how the sector’s future may look…

Over two days in October, the event’s 80+ attendees generated an incredible buzz in the room as they discovered the latest innovations in composites manufacturing – from digital manufacturing in streamlining design-to-production workflows, through to AI, digital twins and humanoid robotics transforming the future of composites production.

The meeting’s theme, “Leveraging Enabling Technologies to Advance Australia’s Composites Manufacturing Sector” , opened up the program to many exciting topics, with delegates all taking away valuable and inspiring insights.

Some of the critical points discussed across the four keynote addresses certainly gave the attendees plenty to think about, including:

the role of digital manufacturing in streamlining design-to-production workflows (delivered by Dr Phil Crothers, Enterprise Domain Leader – Manufacturing, Boeing Aerostructures Australia);
the importance of industry collaboration and workforce development to accelerate advanced manufacturing capability and adoption of automation (delivered by Kerryn Caulfield, Executive Director, Composites Australia);
Technology Assisted Manufacturing, showcasing how AI, digital twins and humanoid robotics are transforming the future of composites production (delivered by Luke Preston, Chief Technology Officer, ACM CRC); and
ACM CRC’s ‘Next Five Years’ Strategy, which emphasised a pivot to industry-led research projects, greater collaboration between partners, clearer utilisation pathways, stronger governance, and enhanced workforce development (delivered by Dr Stephen van Duin, R&D Director, ACM CRC).

Ms Caulfield captured the importance of collaboration perfectly, reinforcing the alignment between ACM CRC and Composites Australia in driving sector-wide growth and innovation.

Indeed, the collaborative nature of ACM CRC’s research programs across the last financial year saw so many industry-led research projects come to fruition, such as a transformative project to standardise composite material repairs for steel structures; optimising Australia’s sovereign Uncrewed Aircraft System airframe design; achieving sustainable waste management in the composites industry; transforming composite coating processes for Australia’s critical industries; and so much more.

A big part of ACM CRC’s mission is to break down existing barriers – an over-reliance on labour-intensive manufacturing, a lack of access to international supply and open markets, high materials transport costs – and reposition the country’s capability with next-generation cost and technology competitiveness.

Across the two days, industry and research partners showcased some of the enabling technologies that are significant to this ACM CRC goal, underlining the focus on practical, scalable innovation. Examples include:

Structural health monitoring, standardised in-field manufacture, and carbon fibre wheel production.
MOF-enabled composite tanks, drone manufacturing optimisation, and AI-based quality control.
High-temperature composite components, and CMC scramjet inlets for flight applications.
Circular design approaches, smart marine infrastructure, and next-generation surfboard and flipper concepts.

Professor Everson Kandare (RMIT University, and ACM CRC’s Education & Training Program Leader) presented the outcomes of a CRC Education & Training Scoping Study , which has identified national skills gaps, and outlines a roadmap for HDR training, micro-credentials, and industry upskilling.

“Several recommendations have emerged from this study, including the stronger integration of HDR research with industry placements, short courses and micro-credentials in automation and digital manufacturing, and programs promoting equity, inclusion and regional participation,” Professor Kandare said.

An open discussion on education and governance then highlighted the need for flexible, nationally coordinated training frameworks, transparent project governance and regular review cycles, and shorter, outcome-driven projects.

“Bringing our Partners together to collaborate on what we’ve done well, what we need to continue doing well, and how we can do better, has, once again, been extremely insightful,” said Dr Steve Gower, CEO of ACM CRC.

“As we look to transform and maximise Australia’s sovereign capability in manufacturing, supply chain security, Industry 4.0 transition, workforce transformation, digital production and export, and green energy economies, these discussions – and our collaborative approach – are essential to instigating a global turning point for the sector.”

A highlight of the Partner Meeting was when ACM CRC Chair, Dr Abby Bloom, presented the 2025 RISE Fellowships to three exceptional women in STEM. Chanel Leong (Rux Energy), Manesha Fernando (Deakin University) and Sachini Wickramasinghe (University of Southern Queensland) were all very deserving awardees of the Fellowship, which will help progress their important work, and see them continuing to help shape the future of Australia’s composites manufacturing industry.

HDR students were also invited to present their work, with Sharine Bendulo of Deakin University announced as the inaugural Prusty Prize winner. The Prize, which is named after ACM CRC’s foundation Director of Research, Scientia Professor Gangadhara Prusty, will be awarded each year for the “Best HDR Presentation by popular vote” at the Partner Meeting. We congratulate Ms Bendulo as being the Prize’s inaugural recipient.

“These are exciting times for the sector. We look forward to building on our collaboration with partners, and others, so together we can continue advancing composites manufacturing in Australia,” Dr Gower concluded.

Interested in becoming an ACM CRC Partner?

Please reach out to us.

9 Questions with Zaneta Senselova

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:31:28 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Zaneta is a PhD Student with ACM CRC Partner, University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) . In 2024, she was awarded an ACM CRC RISE Fellowship – a program that is dedicated to advancing female representation in STEM, aiming to bridge gaps in STEM opportunities and progression by recognising and supporting outstanding women in the field.

Zaneta’s research focuses on understanding the degradation of composite materials under extreme weather conditions and utilising this knowledge to improve existing prediction models or develop new ones, thereby enhancing the ability to forecast the long-term performance of composite materials in infrastructure.

She strives to become an ambassador in her field, promoting research on composite materials and manufacturing to encourage more women to pursue paths in engineering and science, and make a meaningful impact here and around the world.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

Research Program 3 - High-Performance Composite Materials .

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD focuses on understanding the long-term durability and degradation mechanisms of advanced fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites when exposed to harsh environmental conditions. I study how factors such as moisture, elevated temperature, and UV radiation affect the structural, chemical, and mechanical properties of these materials over time. The goal of my research is to develop predictive models and strategies that ensure the reliability and sustainability of composite materials in critical applications, such as infrastructure and renewable energy systems.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

I became interested in this field during my engineering studies, where I was fascinated by the potential of composite materials to create lighter, stronger, and more sustainable structures. As I learned more about their applications in infrastructure and renewable energy, I realised how important it is to understand their durability under real-world conditions. This inspired me to pursue research that can help extend the life and performance of these materials in demanding environments.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

I’ve always been curious and drawn to innovations. I enjoy creating things that have purpose and make an impact. My interest in nature and sustainability inspired me to focus on materials that are strong, eco-friendly, and long-lasting. Working with fibre composites allows me to combine my passion for building meaningful solutions with the drive to make technologies more sustainable and environmentally responsible.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I hope to improve the understanding of how fibre-reinforced polymer composites degrade when exposed to harsh environmental conditions. My goal is to develop predictive models that help engineers design longer-lasting, more sustainable materials for critical infrastructure and renewable energy applications. The main challenge I aim to solve is ensuring the durability and reliability of these composites over time, reducing maintenance costs and extending their service life.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

Quite frankly, I haven’t thought about long-term goals. Now my biggest goal is finishing my research with a positive outcome and creating something that will help future generations.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

Meet people. All sorts of people from industry and academia and building connections.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

It is a stressful life, so be ready and buy boxing gloves. After a hard week, you can release all stress by punching a bag (not people). :D

Q.9 Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

Even though my background is in civil engineering, people are often surprised by how much I enjoy hands-on tech projects. I love spending time in our makerspace, experimenting with electronics and building all sorts of circuit kits I can find.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

Unlocking the future of Australia’s critical infrastructure: are composites the key?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:13:42 GMT

Above: Dr Ali Mohammed - Wagners CFT Technical Lead, Luke Preston - ACM CRC CTO, Dr Stephen van Duin - ACM CRC R&D Director, Dr Steve Gower - ACM CRC CEO, John Dignam -Wagners CFT Executive Director.

If we truly want a Net Zero Future, then we need to closely consider the effective design of resilient infrastructure for long-term service. One ACM CRC project is doing just that, focusing on the advanced construction materials used in marine environments, and investigating how composites could change the way we build.

Maritime infrastructure built along the Australian coast is experiencing early deterioration and premature failure from the biological degradation of timber, corrosion of steel reinforcements, and the expensive cost thus lack of maintenance. The ongoing replacement of these maritime infrastructure costs the Queensland Government at least $10 million per annum (Manalo et al. 2021).

To prevent this figure from increasing (with Australia becoming more susceptible to climate-induced weather events), a collaborative industry-led research team is investigating high performance and low-carbon emission composite materials as effective solutions to build resilience of maritime infrastructure against natural disasters.

The ACM CRC project is being undertaken by regional partners Wagners Composite Fibre Technologies (CFT)(Wagners CFT) and the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), together with end-user, the Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) of the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). They’re seeking to eliminate the significant problem of early deterioration and premature failure of traditional construction materials in marine environment, and unlock the potential of advanced fibre composites for climate-resilient maritime infrastructures.

“We believe high-performance Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites have potential for exponential growth in maritime infrastructure,” said Professor Allan Manalo, Director of the Centre for Future Materials at UniSQ. “Through this project, we’re wanting to gain more knowledge on their structural performance against imposed hydrodynamic loads, and on their long-term performance against the aggressive marine environment.”

The devastating flooding experienced by Queensland and NSW in 2022 claimed an estimated $492 million worth of critical public infrastructure damage, as reported by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (2022). The project team are hoping their efforts will help improve the longevity of Australia’s critical infrastructure, and deliver a safer, more environmentally friendly, and more economical solution through the use of composite building materials.

“We are very interested in the practical application of the research outcomes,” said Mr Ryan Leeson, Regional Manager at Wagners CFT. “The adaptive composite solutions could open doors for TMR – as well as other transport authorities in Australia – to design, build and deliver infrastructure and transport systems that are better able to withstand the adverse impacts of increasing natural disasters,” he said.

“Wagners CFT, UniSQ and MSQ have, together, successfully delivered new and transformative polymer composite technologies across several infrastructure projects,” added Dr Steve Gower, CEO at ACM CRC. “We are excited by this project’s potential, particularly the potential for acceptance and implementation of composites in maritime and other infrastructure, for a safer, more carbon considerate Australia,” he concluded.

See what else is happening in and around ACM CRC: View other projects .

Tech Event - Composites Australia and AMRF

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 22:43:02 GMT

Join ACM CRC Partners Composites Australia and the AMRF for a half-day conference and networking event at the First Building in Bradfield City, including a guided tour of the brand new $60m+ advanced manufacturing facility.

The program will cover the application of automation in composites production, the digitalisation of manufacturing workflows, and design for scalable manufacturing. The AMRF will also outline how it can help manufacturers de-risk the scale-up of production processes — effectively turbo-charging R&D.

DELEGATES WILL SEE:

Compression moulding, robotic filament winding, automated ply cutting and kitting, laser ply projection and metal and polymer 3D printing.

To register and learn more information, visit the Composites Australia website .

Event Name: Tech Event - Composites Australia and AMRF

Event date: 25 November 2025

Location: First Building, 215 Badgerys Creek Road, Bradfield NSW

10 Questions with Neda Bozorgi

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:45:29 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Neda is a PhD Student with ACM CRC Partner, University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) , before which she was working as a Structural Design Engineer at Mines & Metal Technological Engineering (MMTE).

Neda received her Master of Science (MS) in Structural Engineering at the Sharif University of Technology, Iran. Her PhD research continues to focus on structural engineering, during which she has been developing and characterising bio-based composites, and investigating a novel resin system for sustainable composites.

Her main goal is to find innovative solutions for advancing sustainable materials.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project falls under the Research Program 1: High Performance Composites . It focuses on developing a novel bio-epoxy resin as a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based resins used in manufacturing fibre-reinforced polymer composites.

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD research focuses on developing and optimising a novel bio-epoxy resin formulation suitable for use in high performance composites, with the goal of replacing conventional petroleum-based resins. The project aims to enhance the mechanical and thermomechanical properties of the bio-epoxy to ensure its compatibility with the pultrusion manufacturing process. A key aspect of the research is to introduce engineering strategies that improve the performance and long-term durability of the resulting bio-based composites, contributing to more sustainable construction materials.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

My interest in this field began during my master’s degree, where I studied the use of FRP composite laminates for strengthening concrete bridges. Exploring the wide range of applications of fibre composites – known for their high strength and durability – sparked my enthusiasm, as I saw their potential to revolutionise traditional construction practices with more innovative and sustainable solutions.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

The significant advantages of high performance and bio-epoxy based composites over conventional steel, such as corrosion resistance, light weight, and long-term durability, sparked my interest in advancing their application in the construction industry. What motivates me the most, is the potential of these materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to more sustainable infrastructure. Engaging in research that advances innovation while addressing critical environmental challenges is a deeply motivating aspect of my work.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I aim to introduce a sustainable, bio-based composite reinforcement bar to the construction industry and help drive the transition toward environmentally friendly materials. In alignment with Australia's Net Zero goals, my research seeks to replace fossil-based resins with bio-based alternatives, reducing carbon emissions while enhancing the durability and performance of composite materials. I hope my work contributes to future solutions for the composites industry by making sustainable technologies more viable for structural applications.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to continue advancing sustainable composite technologies and collaborate with industry to trial and implement novel bio-based materials in real-world construction projects. I aim to further explore innovative methods and develop additional composite products with enhanced properties, contributing to the broader adoption of environmentally friendly materials across the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The most rewarding aspect of being an ACM CRC PhD student is the strong collaboration between industry and academia. This partnership provides valuable insights into real-world industry challenges, helping align research with practical needs. It also offers guidance on the application of research outcomes, encourages exploration of new directions, and creates opportunities to work as part of an engaged and supportive research community.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

The composites field is broad and rapidly evolving, with many ongoing challenges and opportunities across sectors. If you have experience in any area of composites, consider where the gaps or limitations are, and how your research could help address them. Most importantly, be resilient. Research can be demanding and unpredictable, but persistence and adaptability are key to progress and success.

Q.9 Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

I spent several years working as a senior structural engineer in industry before making the bold decision to transition into academia to explore new materials and advance sustainable composites. Choosing to start learning again after years in practice was challenging, but I’m proud of this decision as it has allowed me to grow and contribute in a cutting-edge field that I am passionate about.

Q10. Anything to add?

I am very proud to work as a female researcher in the composites industry, especially focusing on a novel and impactful topic. I sincerely appreciate the ACM CRC for providing me with this opportunity to be part of a collaborative learning environment, where I gain valuable insights from experienced professionals and peers that empower my growth and research.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

8 Questions with Saral Mittal

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:08:21 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Saral is a Mechanical Engineering PhD candidate with ACM CRC research partner, The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) .

Prior to this, he completed his Bachelor's degree with Honours in Mechanical Engineering at IIT Bombay, India. He also possesses significant industrial experience, having worked with Airbus as a Modeling & Simulation Engineer.

Saral's research focuses on developing an automated tow-wise layup design framework to achieve fit-for-purpose mechanical responses in continuous fibre composites. This involves an integration of cutting-edge additive manufacturing techniques, data-efficient neural network models, and nature-inspired hierarchical design principles. His work also includes the characterisation and numerical modelling of multi-scale structural features to accurately replicate the physical responses of advanced composite architectures. Saral is also working on a collaborative project aimed at uncovering hidden security flaws in automated composites manufacturing systems, designing novel security solutions to safeguard against cyber-sabotage.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project falls under Research Program 1 (Composite Materials) , Research Program 2 (Manufacturing Processes) , Research Program 3 (Simulation, performance prediction) , and Research Program 4 (Design, integration) .

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD research focuses on developing an automated tow-wise layup design framework to achieve fit-for-purpose mechanical responses in continuous fibre composites. This work involves comprehensive mechanical and morphological investigations of advanced composite meso-architectures manufactured through Automated Fibre Placement, combined with a machine learning–led inverse design approach to identify the optimal design configurations tailored for desired physical behaviours.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field, and what made you interested?

My interest in this field began during my bachelor's thesis project at IIT Bombay, where I became deeply intrigued by the broader question of “how topology translates to mechanical behaviour”. What especially captured my attention was the emerging use of machine learning to navigate high-dimensional design spaces in search of optimised material architectures (a direction increasingly referred to as “Materiomics”). As I explored further, I noticed that while leading research groups and top tech companies were applying these methods to various material systems, there was a surprising lack of initiative in the context of continuous fibre composites, even though they form the backbone of many cutting-edge mechanical systems (such as aircraft structures). This gap presented both a challenge and an opportunity. The prospect of developing the first-of-its-kind automated design framework for continuous fibre composites strongly motivated me to pursue research in this direction.

Q4. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Traditionally, composite laminates have been designed from the perspective of stacked plies. However, the emergence of advanced manufacturing techniques such as Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) has fundamentally shifted how we approach both the fabrication and design of composites. These technologies have opened up entirely new design possibilities that can be manufactured at scale, but which no longer align with conventional ply-based design frameworks.

One such possibility is tow-wise layup, which has shown considerable promise in enhancing critical properties like impact tolerance. To fully harness such opportunities, existing design methodologies need to be fundamentally rethought.

Through my PhD, I aim to develop a new automated design framework that accounts for these novel layup strategies. This framework will computationally explore the vast design space enabled by tow-wise manufacturing and suggest optimal tow placement patterns tailored to specific mechanical requirements. The ultimate goal is to help engineers and designers realise the full potential of advanced composite architectures made possible by modern manufacturing technologies.

Q5. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

I aspire to lead innovative research, that supports next-generation engineering applications, as a researcher within academia. My long-term goal is to identify and address fundamental gaps across engineering design and manufacturing. I am particularly passionate about developing novel material systems and structural solutions for extreme applications, as well as creating automated process workflows that streamline end-to-end product engineering. Whether through academic-industry partnerships or entrepreneurial spin-offs, I am committed to translating research into practical, scalable technologies.

Q6. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The best part of being an ACM CRC PhD student is staying closely connected to real-world industry needs. This alignment helps ensure that your research remains not only technically sound but also practically relevant, avoiding the common trap of producing work that is academically correct but lacks industrial impact.

Being part of this ecosystem exposes you to how research translates into industry practice and how effective collaborations are built. It offers valuable insights into the pathways of innovation and allows you to learn directly from ongoing examples of research-to-industry integration.

Q7. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

I would advise choosing projects with some industrial connection to ensure your work stays relevant beyond academic papers. It’s important to tackle problems that matter, even if they lie outside your previous experience.

The skills, analytical abilities, and knowledge you bring are highly transferable and will serve you well throughout your research. It’s definitely possible to build a strong foundation in composites manufacturing during your PhD and leverage your existing strengths and experiences to develop novel applications and methodologies.

Q8. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

I’m really into performing arts - especially dancing and filmmaking. Even though I’m definitely not the most talented at either. Luckily, I found my second calling in research where I can still keep the creative spark alive.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

Leveraging innovative technology to advance Australia’s composites capability: a look into the work of ACM CRC-USYD researchers

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 06:58:04 GMT

Leveraging innovative technology to advance Australia’s composites capability: a look into the work of ACM CRC-USYD researchers

The composite materials market is a rapidly expanding sector of the global economy, sporting a forecast compound annual growth of 7.6% (2020 to 2027). To pave a new path for Australia, and to keep the nation at the forefront of the field, ACM CRC is working to reduce import dependency, penetrate export markets, increase sustainability, shorten prototyping lifecycles, and create an accelerated automated composites manufacturing capacity.

The work of five PhD students and three postdocs from consortium Partner, The University of Sydney (USYD) , is enabling the CRC to edge closer to its goals.

The following are some of the specific areas of research they’re working to advance.

Environmental engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

As a first class honours civil engineering graduate from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Abila Anayet is putting her sustainable construction materials and environmental engineering knowledge into play.

Through her PhD, she is investigating the application of AI for quality control in structural steel fabrication, aiming to optimise Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods to improve fabrication efficiency, minimise defects, and ensure compliance with Australian Standards.

Abila is also positioning her work to contribute to a broader structural health monitoring approach for diagnosis and prognosis, enabling more proactive and data-driven decision-making in structural engineering. Her passion for building systems that have real-world impact will, no doubt, help in shaping smarter more efficient engineering practices.

Robotics

Dr Yiduo Wang received his DPhil Engineering Science degree in 2023 from the University of Oxford, as a member of the Oxford Robotics Institute (ORI). Prior to this, he achieved a Distinction in MRes Robotics at UCL and graduated with Class 1 honours in BEng (Mechatronic) from the University of New South Wales.

You can now find Dr Wang in USYD’s Australian Centre for Robotics (ACFR), where he’s undertaking research on robot perception, localisation and navigation, plus related fields such as control and planning. His excellent mathematical skills and mechanical and electronic knowledge, combined with his strong programming and computer skills, are proving incredibly useful in advancing ACM CRC in the composites sector.

Machine Learning, 3D printing, and a circular economy

In late 2023, ACM CRC launched a project with partners HERA, The University of Sydney and ANSTO, which is leading the way in digital transformation for Circular Design 4.0. Specifically, the project is monitoring and leveraging AI in Circular Design 4.0 to empower designers, manufacturers and policymakers to make more informed decisions, optimise resource utilisation, reduce waste and create products that align with the principles of the circular economy.

PhD student, Van Thu Huynh , is working on this HERA project, applying and developing probabilistic machine learning models for assessing the reliability of structural design and topology optimisation. Specifically, he’s aiming to establish an AI-based monitoring system for assessing the quality of manufactured composite products, including steelwork, with his work also encompassing the development of novel 3D printing techniques.

Joining him on the project is ACM CRC postdoc, Dr Vladislav Yakubov . Dr Yakubov achieved his PhD in Mechanical Engineering in 2022, and is now researching additive manufacturing techniques and novel material characterisation techniques of welded and 3D-printed metal composites. His expertise in this area is being directly applied to the CRC's goals of enhancing manufacturing processes and developing high-performance materials.

Also investigating additive manufacturing techniques, such as laser cladding for industrial applications, is PhD student Zhiwang Li . Zhiwang has a BEng in Mechanical Engineering and an MPhil in Mechanical Engineering, and is now, through his PhD, seeking to optimise laser cladding processing parameters to improve wear and corrosion resistance of metallic coatings. He’s looked into using 3D printing technology to change material design and fabrication, regarding the development of high-wear-resistance polymer composites and is researching recent advances in this field, focusing on the selection of key printing parameters (such as layer thickness, print speed, infill density and printing temperature) and material compatibility optimisation, to enhance print quality and tribological performance. Ultimately, his work introduces the potential for laser cladding to significantly extend the lifespan and performance of critical components in the mining, aerospace, automotive and marine industries.

Several other ACM CRC projects are keeping the circular economy front-of-mind. PhD student, Wlla Abbad , is exploring innovative approaches to recycling and reusing materials, and is contributing to critical advancements in the sustainability of metal composites. In 2024 she was awarded the HERA ‘Women in STEM’ Scholarship, which has helped advance her work in additive manufacturing and the sustainable development of composites.

Dex Chang is another PhD student working within this field. He’s focused on connection design in composite timber-steel structures using Circular Design 4.0 technology. His research leverages advanced tech including AI, virtual reality, BIM, and digital twins, and is revealing how composite design can have a huge impact on the construction of new buildings. Specifically, he believes modularity and reusability will have huge potential in the construction of residential buildings, reducing the overall cost of the construction project and helping protect the environment. As an end goal, he hopes to develop a tool to assist industrial engineers in the design of the relative connection with AI and machine-powered analysis.

Sustainable waste management in the composite industry is another key step towards achieving a circular economy. Through her research, ACM CRC postdoc, Dr Yaning Wei , is performing an in-depth market analysis of the recycling potential for fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials within the Australian context. The initiative is identifying viable recycling pathways that will lead to the development of long-term, sustainable FRP recycling solutions. Through this work, the CRC aims to facilitate the industry’s transition towards circular economy practices, minimising environmental impact while optimising resource use.

“There are several barriers spanning the current composites development lifecycle, from material design to product realisation,” said Dr Anna Paradowska, Professor in Advanced Structural Materials at The University of Sydney. “We’re striving to up-skill the country’s sovereign capacity for more valuable outcomes and to de-risk and enable future industry access to advanced automation, simulation and digitisation.

“This also means upskilling the next generation of composites technologists – the leaders of tomorrow’s industry – so they may help sustain Australia’s long-term competitive advantage. Our students and postdocs from The University of Sydney are introducing technology competitiveness and driving change where it’s needed. They’re helping progress the nation’s composite manufacturing capability. It’s exciting to have witnessed their outputs to date, and to know the future of our composites market is in good hands,” Dr Paradowska concluded.

Read about ACM CRC’s Education & Training targets here: https://www.acmcrc.com/education-and-training .

10 Questions with Manesha Fernando

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 03:55:51 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Manesha is a PhD student and a Graduate Research Teaching Fellow Level A (part-time) at Deakin University . Having graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka, her research primarily explores the fields of organic and materials chemistry. She works on the development of an on-demand thermal surface modification to modify the interface of carbon fiber, with interests in development of this technique for recycled carbon fibers.

Her life goal is to be an active contributor to scientific knowledge that will help achieve sustainable development across the globe.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

Research Program 1 – RP1 High Performance Composite Materials.

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

In simple words, I aim to redefine waste, specifically carbon fiber (CF) waste.

For those of you to whom CF may not seem familiar, think of an aeroplane, an electric car or even a wind-turbine. Guess what? CF plays an important but vital role in all these structures among many other applications.

So how do I re-define this waste? I work on developing a scalable and on-demand, most importantly practically applicable, thermal surface modification on recycled CF (rCF). This is to try to improve properties of rCF to promote their usage in high-value second life applications.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

Sustainability and circular economy are topics close to my heart. I did not know those definitions back in the day, but I began learning about them since early childhood I would say. I remember my ‘amma’ and ‘thaththa’ (translated as mom and dad respectively), telling my brother and I to not waste food and to only serve the amount we could eat. We even segregated waste at home together and took the plastics to a plastic recycling centre on a fortnightly basis. From where I come (which is a village), we did not have waste pick-up back in the day unlike in major towns.

So, my interest in material chemistry dates way back I would like to say.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

One of the statements that resonates with me is that ‘Sustainability is not just about reducing the waste generation – it is also about ensuring that what we build today does not become tomorrow’s challenge’, and I believe research in materials chemistry allows me to be pioneering developments like this. And that is what makes me passionate about this area.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

I hope to learn and develop skills across multiple areas in research, as my research group, led by Prof. Luke C. Henderson, works across multiple research areas. While honing my skills, in my project we have developed an on-demand and scalable thermal surface modification on carbon fibers and have used this technique on recycled carbon fibers (i.e., milled carbon fibers). See more here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1359836824007716 ). In my final year, I hope to play around with this chemistry further to develop a high-value second life application from CF waste.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

I am still taking time to explore my long-term career goals, if I were to be honest. But what I do know for sure is that my passion revolves around research contributing to sustainability and engaging in teaching. I love inspiring the next generation!!

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The ability to meet up with industry experts in various composite industries.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Prioritising product stewardship is very important- after all, the last thing we want is to add to the mounting burden of landfill waste.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

I am a gym rat and hence gym is my favourite place to be after work in campus.

Q.10 Anything to add?

From a person who’s been ‘PhDing’ for two years to someone starting out: honestly, a PhD is as much about mental strength as it is about research and it is most probably the last time you get to be a ‘student’ in your life, so enjoy it!!!!

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2025

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:43:48 GMT

The ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2025 will explore the theme, Leveraging Enabling Technologies to Advance Australia’s Composites Manufacturing Sector .

The event will be abuzz with topical keynotes, industry-led breakout sessions and insightful presentations across three supporting themes:

Digital Transformation in Manufacturing : Harnessing data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimise composite production and quality control.

Automation & Advanced Robotics : Deploying intelligent automation systems to drive efficiency, precision, and scalability.

Smart Factories & Connected Supply Chains : Integrating cyber-physical systems to streamline workflows and enhance collaboration across the composites value chain.

There will also be plenty of time for discussions and networking.

This is an exclusive opportunity for ACM CRC industry, academia and government experts to come together and review the challenges we’ve faced – and still face – and to celebrate the achievements we’ve accomplished. Collectively, we will determine the way forward, ensuring continued collaboration in achieving our milestones and advancing Australia’s composites manufacturing sector.

DATE: Wednesday 22 October and Thursday 23 October 2025

VENUE: Greenhouse Tech Hub. Level 3, 180 George Street Sydney

REGISTRATION : https://acm-crc-annual-partner-meeting-2025.eventbrite.com.au

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Dr Phillip J Crothers

Enterprise Domain Leader - Manufacturing

Boeing Aerostructures Australia

Kerryn Caulfield

Executive Director

Composites Australia Inc.

UPDATE: Tour/Site Visit – Tuesday, 21 October

Please note there has been a change to the morning tour schedule.

The morning visit to the Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF) has been replaced with a tour of Colan Australia in Huntingwood.

Join us for a full-day site visit showcasing two of Australia’s leading organisations in advanced manufacturing and scientific research – Colan Australia and ANSTO .

A dedicated shuttle will depart from Central Station in the morning and return in the late afternoon.

Schedule

Morning – Colan Australia (Huntingwood)
9:45am–10:00am: Pickup at Central Station (exact location TBA)
10:00am–10:45am: Travel to Colan Australia
11:00am–11:45am: Guided tour of Colan Australia’s production and manufacturing facilities (approximately 30 minutes, with extra time for questions and preparing to depart for the next site).
Note: No refreshments provided. Closed-toe footwear required. Visitors must remain with staff when entering the production floor.

Afternoon (ANSTO – Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights)
12:30pm–1:30pm: Travel to ANSTO Discovery Centre
1:30pm–4:30pm: Guided tour of ANSTO facilities, including the OPAL reactor displays, Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering, Centre for Accelerator Science, Building 3 labs and Synroc Pilot Plant.
4:30pm: Return to Central Station

Important Information

Numbers are limited due to site security requirements.
Attendees must bring valid photo ID for entry at ANSTO - a link has been provided to anyone who's registered to attend the tour.
Exact pickup location at Central Station will be confirmed closer to the date.
You are also welcome to make your own way to the facilities and join the group on-site - but please let the ACM team know.
Please contact the ACM team on hello@acmcrc.com for more details.

ACM CRC HDR Student Prize - Submissions Closed

***Thank you to all our HDR students who submitted their entries for the 2025 ACM CRC HDR Student Prize. We’ve been impressed by the creativity and impact showcased in your research presentations. Five finalists will be selected and invited to present at the ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2025, with the winner to be announced at the event.***

We are proud to launch the ACM CRC HDR Student Prize , recognising outstanding academic and industry-focused research from our Higher Degree by Research (HDR) cohort. This annual prize celebrates excellence in research, innovation and engagement aligned with the goals of the CRC. Submissions will take the form of a brief video presentation , giving students the opportunity to showcase the real-world impact of their research in a dynamic and accessible format.

As part of their involvement with the CRC, all HDR students are expected to participate in the ACM CRC HDR Student Prize by submitting a 1-minute video presentation.

If you have any questions about the process or if you'd like to know more about the prize, feel free to get in touch .

RISE Fellowship Returns - Nominations Closed

***Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination for the 2025 RISE Fellowship. This prestigious award highlights and celebrates remarkable women in STEM across the CRC. The successful Fellows will be contacted soon and the awards will be presented at the ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2025.***

The RISE Fellowship will once again spotlight remarkable women in STEM from within the CRC. This prestigious award champions leadership, innovation and impact. To nominate a candidate, please complete the nomination form and submit it to the ACM CRC team. Nominations are welcome from across the CRC community and self-nominations are also encouraged.

See the Partner Meeting highlights in 2024 and 2023 .

Event Name: ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2025

Event date: 22 and 23 October 2025

Location: Greenhouse Tech Hub

Level 3, 180 George Street Sydney

ACM CRC Launches Transformative Project to Standardise Composite Material Repairs for Steel Structures

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 07:43:22 GMT

Above: Dr Steve Gower at UWA to launch the project with partners Fuze and UQ.

The Advanced Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) has launched an innovative project led by FUZE Solutions and the University of Western Australia, in collaboration with the University of Queensland, to establish an industry standard for repairing and reinforcing steel structures using composite materials. This initiative aims to define best practices, overcome barriers to adoption, and pave the way for widespread industry acceptance.

A Solution for Critical Industries

Industries such as oil and gas, energy production, utilities, mining, marine and communications depend on durable, cost-effective methods to maintain and extend the life of their infrastructure. Composite materials offer a compelling solution with benefits including chemical compatibility, lightweight construction, stiffness, toughness, corrosion resistance, modularity and adaptability for cold works and incremental applications.

Project Goals and Methodology

The ACM CRC project focuses on developing robust methods for designing and evaluating composite repairs. Key activities include:

Conducting structural calculations and finite element analysis modelling.
Implementing scale testing procedures and establishing performance criteria.
Developing long-term testing programs and inspection protocols.
Integrating Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) techniques to ensure sustained performance.

These efforts will be conducted within a risk-based framework that considers the criticality of structural elements and overall system integrity.

Addressing Barriers to Adoption

Peter Butt, Technology Manager at FUZE and ACM CRC Project Lead, explained the current challenges:

“The design and assessment processes for composite repairs are not widely understood outside a niche group of experts. This lack of understanding leads asset owners and regulators to favour traditional, more costly steel repairs over innovative and cost-effective composite solutions.”

Butt emphasised that the project’s ultimate goal is to provide clear, standardised guidelines:

“A new standard will give asset owners and regulators confidence in the reliability of composite repair methods, reducing perceived risks and encouraging broader adoption across industries.”

Incorporating Proven Technologies

The project will draw on established aerospace technologies and industrial experience to create a comprehensive framework for steel asset repairs.

Associate Professor Farhad Aslani, UWA Lead for ACM CRC at the University of Western Australia, noted the project’s multidisciplinary approach:

“We will review existing research and practices from aerospace and civil engineering applications, validate techniques through experimentation, and develop design and assessment protocols. Collaboration with industry stakeholders will ensure that the solutions are practical and field-ready.”

Driving Efficiency and Innovation

By streamlining approval processes and improving cost efficiency, the initiative aims to reduce repair timelines and extend asset lifespans.

“Standardisation will enable the widespread use of composite repairs, driving growth in local manufacturing and supply chains,” said Dr Steve Gower, CEO of ACM CRC.

“This project will reduce operating costs for asset owners, improve production uptime, and position Australia as a leader in advanced composites technology.”

The immediate focus of the ACM CRC-funded project is to gather industry requirements, identify cross-sector alignment, and develop a framework for adopting standardised repair methodologies.

For further details or to express interest in participating, please contact ACM CRC .

Advancing Composite Technologies: Insights from the 22nd Composites Australia Conference

Fri, 30 May 2025 05:42:48 GMT

The 22nd Composites Australia Conference , held recently at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Brisbane, brought together leaders from manufacturing, defence, research and infrastructure to explore emerging developments in composite materials and processes.

The event showcased a wide range of timely and transformative topics. Highlights included Simon Karpeles (RPC Technologies Pty Ltd) on GRP cooling water systems for thermal power plants, Eden Murphy (CST Composites) on filament winding innovations and Michael Kemp (Wagners CFT ANZ) on marine infrastructure advancements. Luke Preston ( Quickstep ) presented on factory simulation in aerospace, Ben Menzies addressed the use of composites in caravanning and David Stevenson (allnex Composites) detailed advances in sustainable resins derived from recycled sources.

Workforce development was another key theme, with Kyle Davison (Riviera Australia) providing insights into structured training in marine manufacturing. In the built environment, Lynden Vikingur (Vikal Modular) and Damien Crough (PrefabAUS) explored the role of composites in prefabricated construction. Defence aviation sustainment was covered in detail by the RAAF’s Defence Aviation Safety Authority (DASA) and Nathan Howell from the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF) delivered a compelling session on de-risking and accelerating manufacturing innovation.

ACM CRC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Steve Gower, chaired the panel discussion, “Advancing Prefabricated Construction with Composite Technologies”, featuring Lynden Vikingur, President of Composites Australia and Damien Crough, President of PrefabAUS. The session examined how traditional composite manufacturing techniques are being adapted to produce cost-effective, weather-resistant housing. By consolidating trades, leveraging in-house moulding and rapid prototyping capabilities and integrating lightweight composite joining systems, panellists demonstrated how this approach achieves faster, more precise and more sustainable outcomes - surpassing conventional on-site construction models.

The conference also drew strong representation from academia, including Deakin University , The University of Southern Queensland and RMIT University , along with insights from organisations such as LeoLabs, Bisley International and INNOVYNC. The breadth of perspectives underscored the sector’s diversity and capacity for innovation.

The event was hosted by Kerryn Caulfield, Executive Director of Composites Australia , who curated the program and led its delivery. Her leadership ensured a seamless and highly relevant conference that reflected the sector’s emerging priorities. Kerryn acknowledged and thanked ACM CRC CEO Dr Steve Gower for his support and contribution to the event’s success, particularly in chairing the session on prefabricated construction.

ACM CRC was proud to support the conference as part of its commitment to strengthening national composites capability through collaboration, research translation and industry engagement. Events such as this play a vital role in connecting stakeholders and accelerating the adoption of advanced composite technologies across priority sectors.

8 Questions with Phan Thao Nguyen

Fri, 30 May 2025 04:27:11 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Phan (Mia) is a second-year PhD candidate at Deakin University . She completed her master's degree at Kyushu University, Japan, which focused on the structure and physical properties of polymers. She has a passion for polymer physics and composite materials.

Mia aspires to improve people's lives through scientific advancements. Her current research focuses on developing a novel method to enhance the toughness of epoxy resins, a crucial thermosetting polymer used in composite fabrication.

Her motivation as a researcher is driven by the belief: "Be a person who brings positive influence on others."

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD Masters project sit?

My project is aligned with RP1 High Performance Composite Materials.

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD Masters?

This project focuses on developing a novel and straightforward approach to toughening thermosetting resin matrices using cost-effective, commercially available raw materials. This method will significantly enhance the integrity and toughness of the resin matrix while maintaining the mechanical properties of epoxy resins.

The modified resin will be used to manufacture high-performance materials for specific applications in Australia, including transportation, marine, and hydrogen engineering. Additionally, this approach will contribute to establish an innovative material formulation that can be implemented in industrial settings.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field? And what made you interested in it?

As a child, I was greatly inspired by the story of Marie Curie – the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only woman to win it twice. Her achievements fuelled my dream of becoming a female scientist capable of creating exceptional innovations. Holding onto this passion, I aspired to immerse myself in cutting-edge and professional research environments, such as those in Australia.

Q4. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD Masters? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through this project, I aim to develop an innovative and robust toughening approach for resin matrices to enhance their toughness, strength, impact resistance, and strain capacity, particularly under extreme conditions such as low temperatures and high-impact loading. This approach also seeks to optimise the processing methods of resin matrices, making them more practical, accessible, and cost-effective for industrial applications.

Several key challenges I aim to address include developing a formulation suitable for large-scale industrial applications, with a focus on processability, compatibility, and the shelf-life of modifiers. More importantly, the modified epoxy resin matrix should enhance the overall performance of epoxy resin composites, making them more durable and efficient for various applications.

Q5. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term ambition is to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained in academia to practical applications, developing innovative materials and technologies that can enhance everyday life. I aspire to bridge the gap between research and industry by creating advanced, sustainable solutions that contribute to society and improve people’s quality of life.

Q6. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

It provides me with a strong platform to engage with academic experts and industry partners, allowing me to develop both technical and soft skills while gaining a deeper understanding of real-world challenges.

Q7. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less” - Marie Curie.

Q8. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

I can speak Japanese a little bit.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

10 Questions with Abila Anayet

Thu, 29 May 2025 05:49:01 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Abila is a PhD Student with ACM CRC Partner, The University of Sydney (USYD), prior to which she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) with First Class Honors.

Abila has a strong academic and research background in sustainable construction materials and environmental engineering.

She is currently pursuing her PhD in Civil Engineering, focusing on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for quality control in structural steel fabrication. Her work aims to optimise Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods to improve fabrication efficiency, minimise defects, and ensure compliance with Australian Standards.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD falls under Research Program 2: Manufacturing Processes, which focuses on revolutionising fabrication through intelligent systems, sensor technologies, and AI-enabled quality control. My research contributes by developing a data-driven weld inspection framework for structural steel, using machine learning, neutron imaging, and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) to help deliver smarter, standards-aligned outcomes in real-world fabrication.

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

I’m developing an AI-enhanced quality control system for welded structural steel, especially for complex T-joint configurations. My approach combines Finite Element Analysis (FEA), machine learning, Non-Destructive Testing, and neutron imaging (like tomography and diffraction) to detect internal weld defects, evaluate fusion quality, and map residual stress. The bigger goal is to create a smart, reliable inspection tool that improves fabrication quality, reduces rework, and supports updates to international welding standards. This system also contributes to a broader structural health monitoring approach for diagnosis and prognosis, enabling more proactive and data-driven decision-making in structural engineering.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

It started during my undergraduate studies, when I was working on sustainable construction materials. That project got me thinking about how materials behave in real structures and how failure often begins in ways we don’t immediately see. Later, when I came across real-world challenges in welding and fabrication, I realised how important quality control is in keeping structures safe. That’s when I really knew this was a space I wanted to explore further.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

I’ve always been fascinated by problems that aren’t easy to spot, especially in engineering. The idea that a tiny flaw inside a weld could affect the safety of a whole structure really stuck with me. When I saw how technologies like AI and neutron imaging could help uncover those hidden risks and improve how we build, I felt genuinely excited. It felt like the kind of work where I could combine innovation, purpose, and impact—and actually make a difference.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I hope to create a more reliable and intelligent approach to quality control in structural steel fabrication – one that doesn’t just detect flaws but understands them in context. A major challenge I’m addressing is the difficulty of identifying internal weld defects in complex geometries like T-joints, where traditional inspection methods often fall short. I want to develop a system that uses AI to improve how we assess weld quality, reduce rework, and make fabrication more efficient, consistent, and standards-compliant. In the long term, this framework also supports a structural health monitoring approach, offering valuable insights for both diagnosis and prognosis of structural performance over time.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

In the long term, I see myself staying in the research sector, where I can keep exploring how technologies like AI and advanced testing methods can improve structural quality and safety. I’m passionate about building systems that have real-world impact, and I want to contribute to shaping smarter, more efficient engineering practices. I also hope to share what I’ve learned with the next generation of engineers and researchers through mentoring, teaching, and collaborating on future projects.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

One of the best parts of being an ACM CRC PhD student is the chance to do research that’s deeply connected to industry. I get to collaborate with people from across universities, fabricators, and research organisations like HERA and ANSTO, which makes the work feel purposeful and grounded. It’s rewarding to know that my project could help address real challenges in fabrication and inspection, and potentially shape future standards.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Pick a problem you genuinely care about and not just something that sounds impressive on paper. A PhD is a long journey, and what will keep you going is curiosity and the belief that your work matters. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions or take the time to build the right support network. Research can feel isolating at times, but being part of a collaborative environment like ACM CRC makes a huge difference.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

Most people are surprised to learn that outside of engineering, I genuinely love teaching and getting involved in extracurricular activities alongside my research. I believe we shouldn’t limit ourselves, and that there’s always something valuable to learn beyond our own field. I’ve taken part in over 230 academic, cultural, and leadership activities, and these experiences have shaped the way I think, lead, and collaborate. They’ve also taught me that innovation doesn’t always come from labs or code. It often begins with conversations, fresh perspectives, and the people around us.

Q10. Anything to add?

I’ve never believed in fitting into boxes, especially in research. There isn’t just one path to making a difference or one way a researcher is supposed to look. I’ve found that some of the most meaningful work happens when you trust your instincts and follow ideas that don’t always fit the mould. Being part of ACM CRC has shown me that there’s space for new ways of thinking, for collaboration, and for doing things differently. I hope my journey encourages others to trust their own path and know there’s no single way to make a difference.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

10 Questions with Zhiwang Li

Thu, 29 May 2025 05:05:18 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Zhiwang is a PhD Student with ACM CRC Partner, The University of Sydney (USYD), prior to which he completed his BEng in Mechanical Engineering and his MPhil in Mechanical Engineering, both at USYD.

His research is focused on tribology, polymer composites, and laser cladding. Specifically, he has investigated using 3D printing technology to change material design and fabrication, regarding the development of high-wear-resistance polymer composites, particularly using Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM).

Zhiwang has investigated recent advances in this field, focusing on the selection of key printing parameters (such as layer thickness, print speed, infill density, and printing temperature) and material compatibility optimisation to enhance print quality and tribological performance.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project is conducted under the “ Research Program 3 – Simulation and Performance Prediction ” specifically focusing on laser-based additive manufacturing techniques, such as laser cladding, for industrial applications.

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My research primarily aims at optimising laser cladding processing parameters to improve wear and corrosion resistance of metallic coatings. The focus includes systematically studying process parameters like laser power, scanning speed, powder feed rate, and overlap ratios to achieve optimal microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties, particularly targeting applications in harsh service environments.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

My interest in laser cladding and tribology began during my master's research, where I explored additive manufacturing methods for enhancing material properties. This experience has led to my fascination with the synergy of laser processing and material optimisation, prompting me to pursue a PhD in this specialised field.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

The potential for laser cladding to significantly extend the lifespan and performance of critical components in mining, aerospace, automotive, and marine industries was challenging. I was particularly interested in how precise control of processing parameters could substantially influence mechanical and tribological performance, offering practical and scalable solutions to industrial challenges.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I aim to develop robust methodologies for parameter optimisation in laser cladding to reliably produce coatings with exceptional wear and corrosion resistance. I seek to solve practical issues such as coating delamination, high residual stresses, inconsistent microstructures, and suboptimal performance in real-world conditions. Ultimately, I hope my research facilitates broader adoption of laser cladding technologies across various industries.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

In the long term, I aspire to become a leading researcher in advanced manufacturing technologies, bridging the gap between academic innovation and industrial application. I aim to continue refining manufacturing techniques, mentoring future researchers, and promoting sustainable, high-performance solutions in manufacturing industries.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The best aspect is the direct engagement with industry and academia facilitated by ACM CRC. This collaborative environment provides valuable opportunities to translate research into practical, impactful solutions, enriching both academic inquiry and industry practice.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Be thoroughly curious and resilient: embrace challenges as integral parts of the discovery process. Composites manufacturing involves complex interactions between materials, processes, and properties; thus, maintaining systematic research practices and openness to interdisciplinary collaboration will greatly enhance your success.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

Beyond research, I am actively involved in innovative approaches such as integrating acoustic measurement techniques during laser cladding, aiming at real-time monitoring and optimisation, which represents an exciting frontier in additive manufacturing research.

Q10. Anything to add?

My research philosophy is centred on practical applicability: ensuring that scientific advancements directly enhance industry standards. I strongly believe interdisciplinary collaboration, especially within ACM CRC's network, is essential for translating lab-scale innovations into real-world impacts.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

10 Questions with Wlla Abbad

Thu, 29 May 2025 04:38:38 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Wlla Abbad from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, The University of Sydney .

She holds a master’s degree in industrial engineering/management from the University of Jordan and was awarded the 2024 HERA ‘Women in STEM’ Scholarship.

Her research focuses on sustainable manufacturing, specifically using Additive Friction Stir Deposition (AFSD) for aluminium/steel composite material. This includes both experimental and modelling work to understand and optimise the process. Aligned with circular economy principles, her work explores innovative approaches to recycling and reusing materials—contributing to critical advancements in the sustainability of metal composites.

Wlla’s excited to be working at the forefront of additive manufacturing and sustainable development of composites.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

I’m working on a project with industry partner HERA. The project, entitled “Innovative metal composites with circular design 4.0: Artificial Intelligence based quality control manufacturing health monitoring reuse and recycling of composite connections”, falls under Research Program 1 (Composite Materials) and Research Program 3 (Simulation, Performance Prediction).

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

The main objective of my PhD research involves a better understanding of the Additive Friction Stir Deposition (AFSD) process of metal composites via modelling and experimental validation. Additionally, I aim to create a framework with AI support for building structural components using composites materials for sustainable large-scale application.

The main objective targets manufacturing and inspection process optimisation to generate stronger, reliable connections that benefit different industrial sectors.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

My interest initially started with broader themes like Industry 4.0 and additive manufacturing. When I began my PhD journey, I was introduced to AFSD by my supervisor. Learning about its unique capabilities and relevance to sustainable manufacturing quickly captured my attention and shaped the focus of my research.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

FSD is a relatively new and promising additive manufacturing technique, especially for composite materials. I was drawn to its potential to overcome traditional manufacturing limitations and the wide range of advantages it offers for industrial applications, including improved material performance, reducing the cost and minimised environmental impact.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

The aim of my research is to investigate the use of AFSD for fabricating aluminium/steel composite structures, to model thermal and residual stress behaviours during the process, and to develop a sustainability-focused, AI-supported design and manufacturing framework. Ultimately, I hope to support the industry in adopting AFSD for stronger, more reliable, and environmentally conscious structural components.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to continue discovering new insights in advanced manufacturing and to share that knowledge through both academic and industrial collaborations. I aspire to contribute meaningfully to engineering education and innovation, especially in regions where sustainable solutions are most needed.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The best part is being connected to a vibrant research community with strong industry partnerships. The real-world focus and direct engagement with industry partners provide valuable insights and ensure that our research addresses practical, impactful challenges.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Composite manufacturing is a fascinating and dynamic field. It's full of opportunities to make a real impact across various industries. If you're passionate about innovation and problem-solving, this field offers endless possibilities for learning and contribution.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

I once completely changed my career path—leaving a leadership position in industry to become a research and teaching assistant—because I was determined to follow my ambition and contribute to meaningful research. It was a bold decision, but one I am truly proud of.

Q10. Anything to add?

As a woman in a highly male-dominated field, I see this journey as a unique opportunity. I’m fortunate to be mentored by other women in the field, and I value the inclusive environment that supports women in STEM. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries. Finally, I'm excited to be part of such a forward-thinking and collaborative research community, and I wish all ACM CRC projects continue to success!

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

ACM CRC PhD student recognised nationally for groundbreaking recycling research

Tue, 20 May 2025 12:23:28 GMT

ACM CRC is proud to celebrate the success of one of its PhD students, Chundu Tamang from the University of Southern Queensland , who was named winner of the 2025 Cooperative Research Australia (CRA) Early Career Researcher Competition .

Chundu’s work embodies the best of what we aim to foster through ACM CRC’s HDR Program – technical excellence, industry relevance and a strong commitment to sustainability. We’re proud to support emerging researchers like Chundu who are helping reshape the future of composites and Australia’s industrial landscape.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

Collaborate Innovate 2025

Mon, 19 May 2025 05:31:26 GMT

Event Name: Collaborate Innovate 2025

Event date: 19 to 21 May 2025

Location: Melbourne Connect, The Forum (Level M), Melbourne VIC

ACM CRC-UNSW future leaders taking the reins on innovative manufacturing and sovereign engineering

Wed, 07 May 2025 06:28:13 GMT

In the midst of a major automation transition, Australia is needing to reposition its manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability to capture emergent markets.

This transition incorporates a workforce transformation, with ACM CRC’s PhD Students and Postdocs critical to helping maximise Australia’s sovereign capability for a global turning point.

ACM CRC Partner, The University of New South Wales ( UNSW ), currently has 1 Postdoc and 7 PhD Students engaged on ACM CRC projects, helping to drive innovation in the composites manufacturing space. Some of the specific areas of research they’re helping to advance include the following.

Industrial automation, materials, and multidisciplinary engineering

Dr Binayak Bhandari is a Research Associate with UNSW and Postdoc with ACM CRC. He’s a recipient of the Australian Government’s "Distinguished Talent Visa" and is among the top 2% of scientists worldwide in the fields of industrial automation, materials, and multidisciplinary engineering, as per Stanford University’s Updated science-wide author databases of standardized citation indicators. Working with ACM CRC industry partner, Gowing Bros, his talents have seen him helping to design and manufacture a compact and lightweight smart travel surfboard.

Also working with Dr Bhandari and the Gowing Bros team on the smart travel surfboard project is PhD Student, Sebastien Richard. Sebastien is responsible for the numerical studies and prototype testing, with his research focussed on fluid-structure interaction, to optimise the performance of the surfboards.

Mechanical Engineering PhD Student, Alex Air, is also excelling in these areas of research, with his work focussing on automated fibre placement, composite pressure vessels, advanced composites, and hydrogen fuel cell and battery electric vehicles. He recently partnered with Scientia Professor Ganga Prusty, Director of Research at ACM CRC, to publish the paper, “Manufacturing feasibility of a bend free ellipsoidal composite pressure vessel using automated fibre placement” .

Also a Mechanical Engineering PhD Student, Saral Mittal is seeking to develop innovative inverse design frameworks for tailored composite materials. This involves an integration of cutting-edge additive manufacturing techniques, data-efficient neural network models, and nature-inspired hierarchical design principles. His work also includes the characterisation and modelling of multi-scale structural features to accurately replicate the physical responses of advanced composite architectures.

Manufacturing processes

PhD Student, Chris Jenkins , is working in this field of research, focussing on mould-free composite manufacturing, out of autoclave manufacturing, and hybrid composites.

Joshua Grosser is also investigating manufacturing processes, along with simulation and performance prediction, and design integration, focussing specifically in the maritime and composites industry. He’s been working with ACM CRC industry partner, Ocius Technology, to help optimise the use of wave energy for propulsion , harnessing energy for underwater flippers for unmanned surface vessels (USVs).

Digital Twin technology

PhD Student, Mohammad Malaibari , is seeking to enhance data management in the design stage using Digital Twin technology integrated with knowledge graphs. He’s also optimising resource allocation in labour-intensive manufacturing through advanced machine learning techniques. This combination of technologies aims to improve decision-making, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency in the manufacturing industry.

Mustafa Siddiqui is also a Digital Twin expert, with his research centred on developing an advanced Digital Twin model aimed at enhancing manufacturing operations, in particular for Omni Tanker’s Manufacturing Plant . His research is integrating AI and Machine Learning with Digital Twin technology to enhance manufacturing efficiency by detecting and mitigating manufacturing bottlenecks, which are significant obstacles that slow down production.

“Through our multifaceted Education & Training Program, we’re seeking to transform industry capability via 100 HDR student commencements,” said Scientia Professor Ganga Prusty, Director of Research at ACM CRC. “The work of these UNSW students, along with our many other PhDs and Postdocs, is critical to the future of composites manufacturing, and Australia’s transformation opportunity in sovereign manufacturing, supply chain security, Industry 4.0 transition, digital production and export, and green energy and EV economies.

“By employing trained graduate engineers focused on future industry, we can upgrade industry capability and be better prepared for what’s to come,” concluded Scientia Prof. Prusty.

View more on ACM CRC’s Education & Training targets here: https://www.acmcrc.com/education-and-training .

Composites Conference 2025

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 04:20:07 GMT

Australia's leading composite conference.

Mark your calendars for two action-packed days - 30 April and 1 May - featuring industry insights, technical presentations and interactive displays.

This annual conference offers invaluable strategic perspectives on operating and growing a composites business, alongside practical insights into successful collaboration within the composites sector.

The program is thoughtfully curated to showcase leading composites practitioners and thought leaders through engaging presentations that delve into diverse industry and technology case studies. Whether you’re seeking to gain fresh insights, sharpen your skills, expand your network, or ignite new ideas, this event has it all.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be inspired, informed, and connected. We can’t wait to see you there!

The morning visit to the Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF) has been replaced with a tour of Colan Australia in Huntingwood.

Event Name: Composites Conference 2025

Event date: 30 April and 1 April 2025

Location: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Manly, Qld

9 Questions with Sharine Bendulo, ACM CRC PhD Student

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 03:44:20 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Sharine Noelle Bendulo from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, Deakin University .

Sharine is a third-year Materials Engineering PhD candidate. She graduated with a BS and MS in Chemistry from the University of the Philippines Diliman, and has a deep passion for organic synthesis, materials chemistry and composite materials. Her ambition is to take on a research and development role after her PhD, contributing to automotive, aerospace or defence projects. Sharine’s current research interests include: vitrimers, advanced composites, high performance structural materials, and resin development.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD Masters project sit?

My PhD project is under Research Program 1: High Performance Composite Materials .

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD Masters?

My research is focused on the development of reprocessable high-performance epoxy vitrimers based on dynamic imine bonds. The goal is to develop alternative matrix materials for high-performance carbon fibre composites that would enable composite repair, reshaping and welding even after hardening. This would also extend the life of crosslinked polymer networks, keep them in the circular economy of plastics, and impart properties that were previously only possible for thermoplastics.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

When I was in high school, my brother and I loved watching shows on the Discovery Channel and National Geographic on air crash investigations, mega builds, and how things are made. These shows often featured materials chemists who explained the causes of material failure, the design principles of high-strength structural materials, and the underlying science of manufacturing. It was through these shows that I developed a keen interest in the field and aspired to become a materials chemist.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

I was fascinated by the concept that molecules could be deliberately designed to achieve specific properties tailored for various applications. For instance, the assembly of polymer chains and how the interactions of functional groups on the chains directly influence the properties of polymers. This curiosity led me to join a polymer research lab during my undergraduate studies in chemistry, where I gained firsthand experience. This exposure introduced me to the diverse applications and significant potential of polymers and their composites, solidifying my interest in this field.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD research, I aim to address the challenges of circularity and the inherent limitations of thermosets and their carbon fibre composites. The excellent thermal stability and high mechanical strength of thermosets stem from their crosslinked network structure, but this also makes them difficult to reuse, repair, and recycle. My goal is to modify their molecular structure by incorporating dynamic bonds and transforming them to vitrimers to allow thermally activated material flow to overcome these challenges and integrate them into the circular economy of plastics. Additionally, unlike thermoplastics, which can be melted and reshaped upon heating, the crosslinked nature of thermosets prevents them from melting, hence limiting their processability and reprocessing. Existing epoxy-based composites must be transported and stored at low temperatures before shaping and curing, and once hardened, they cannot be reshaped or welded together. My goal is to address these challenges by developing modified thermosets, or vitrimers, with enhanced reshapability and weldability as well as high performance, thereby expanding their versatility and utility in various industrial applications.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to pursue a research and development position in the industry or within a research institution after completing my PhD. I aim to contribute to the development of innovative materials that address key challenges in the polymer and composites industries. Specifically, I aspire to work on solutions that can enhance the performance and sustainability of materials used in sectors such as automotive, defence, and aerospace, ultimately contributing to technological advancements and societal benefits.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

Being able to meet and learn from people in the composites industry would be the highlight for me.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

I would say to learn as much as possible about polymer matrices and fibres. A deep understanding of their properties, interactions, and how they influence the performance of the final product are invaluable.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

Prior to pursuing my PhD degree, I also conducted research on protein-protein interactions and proteomics as well as the development of electrochemical sensors and magnetic nanoparticles for peptide fractionation. These experiences broadened my knowledge and exposed me to laboratory techniques and instrumentation vastly different from those used in polymer and composites manufacturing. This exposure has enhanced my multidisciplinary approach to research and fostered a strong sense of adaptability. Additionally, my work in protein research deepened my appreciation for how organic chemistry and synthesis can be effectively applied to fields like molecular biology, which may initially seem unrelated.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

10 Questions with Sina Mansourdehghan

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 03:12:31 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Sina Mansourdehghan from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, University of Western Australia (UWA) .

He’s a civil engineer specialising in structural engineering and has a background and keen interest in data science. Sina is focused on integrating computer science into structural analysis and monitoring.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project is under RP4 Design and Integration .

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD research focuses on the health monitoring of steel-composite bondlines. Specifically, I am working on developing Machine Learning (ML) approaches to detect and localise bondline damage using data from optical fibre sensors. To this end, I am designing and conducting experiments to gather data from both healthy and damaged structures to establish and validate my ML models. Ultimately, as a case study, my goal is to develop a monitoring system that includes optimised sensor arrangement and a data interpretation algorithm for tubular joint monitoring.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

During my MSc, my interest in this field began when I was working on structural health monitoring (SHM) of concrete structures using image data. This experience made me curious about applying ML-based methods to different types of sensor data. SHM has always motivated me, especially considering its potential for preventing future structural damage. Additionally, the challenge of adapting advanced ML models specifically for structural engineering applications is for me.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

Firstly, the necessity of developing a proper SHM system for regions with high seismicity for both onshore and offshore structures motivated me to work in the field of SHM to prevent future disasters. Moreover, using advanced ML methods in SHM further motivated me to deepen my knowledge and skills. Now, I’m excited to apply computer science techniques specifically to composite monitoring in my research.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I aim to develop a reliable health monitoring system for steel-composite structures that not only enhances the safety and durability of onshore and offshore structures, but also plays a role in preventing future disasters by identifying issues before they escalate. I hope to address challenges in sensor placement, data interpretation, and damage localisation in complex structures like tubular joints.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

I hope to make SHM systems more accessible and reliable, helping engineers predict and prevent structural failures, and contributing to safer, more resilient infrastructure worldwide.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The best part of being an ACM CRC PhD student is the strong support system and the sense of community.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Before starting a PhD, first, make sure you’re interested in research. If you have that drive, the composite manufacturing area is a growing field where you can make meaningful and impactful contributions.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

I’m afraid I might not have something that would surprise you :) However, my passion for mathematics and engineering is closely tied to my deep interest in music and philosophy. I love discovering the connections and similarities between these fields, and I’m always interested in learning more about them.

Q10. Anything to add?

Thanks for your time! I’m happy to be a part of this community.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

10 Questions with Sriram Ravisankar Padma

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:41:24 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Sriram Ravisankar Padma from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, University of Western Australia (UWA) .

Sriram is an Aerospace Engineer, currently pursuing his doctorate in structural health monitoring using embedded sensor technology. Along with a joint Master’s degree from Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) and Technical University of Munich (Germany), Sriram has extensive experience in the repair and development of composite aero-engine structures in industry-leading projects with the Rolls Royce UTC. Passionate about innovation and structural integrity, he strives for sustainable engineering methods while aiming to achieve enhanced safety and reliability of components through cutting- edge monitoring techniques.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project sits under RP4 Design and Integration .

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

With the advancements in the field of composite materials, there is an imminent need in the development of the real time structural integrity assessment that revolves around embedded sensor technology. That made me set my focus on the structural health monitoring (SHM) technology of composites and their repairs.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

While carrying out my research work in the domain of repair of composite structures, I realised the importance of damage prediction and assessment to effectively develop a repair solution that benefits the engineering team as well as the end user in terms of reliable solutions.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

The call for sustainable advancements in the field of research is quintessential for the circular economy. These SHM tools help in reducing the material wastage by utilising the entire design life of a component. It also plays a pivotal role in helping industries to accurately predict the mean time between failure (MTBF) leading to cost efficient operations.

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

My primary focus is to contribute to the development of smart material systems that can monitor the structural integrity in real-time. The technology exists, but the challenge is to take them through the doors of higher readiness levels for industrial applications through rigorous testing and novel sensor packaging approaches.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

Being an Aerospace Engineer by profession, my long-term goal upon completing my PhD is to contribute to the Aerospace industry, pushing the boundaries further in the field of smart-materials and structures.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The ACM CRC lays a foundational platform that connects researchers from different groups. This facilitates collective problem-solving and research collaborations that then facilitate higher quality of work.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

My one piece of advice is to try and incorporate the advancements in other fields of research like 3D Printing, Machine Learning, IOT and Nanotechnology for the benefit of the realm of composite materials.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

I am a wildlife and landscape photographer enthusiast who loves to stargaze. My works have been featured by Nikon Singapore and the Nanyang Technological University media.

Q10. Anything to add?

Dedication and hard work are indispensable. It is very essential in pursuing a PhD to perform research that contributes positively to the global community.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

9 Questions with Sara Ahmed, ACM CRC PhD Student

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:17:25 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Sara Ahmed from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, University of Western Australia (UWA) .

Sara begun her studies in 2023 in structural engineering, and is now a PhD candidate at the University of Western Australia. Her research, in collaboration with FUZE, focuses on the rehabilitation of offshore structural elements in Marine environments. Prior to this, Sara completed her Master’s degree at the American University of Sharjah, where her work focused on developing materials for 3D printing technology. She then worked as a Research Associate, publishing several papers on recycled concrete, UHPC, and FRP RC beams, with sustainability as her primary focus. Sara eagerly anticipates engaging with ACM CRC industry Partners to address practical challenges.

Q1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project falls under both RP3 Simulation and Performance and RP4 Design and Integration .

Q2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My research focuses on understanding the performance of rehabilitated offshore structural elements affected by corrosion, which is a major concern in offshore structures such as platforms. Traditional rehabilitation techniques, such as welding or bolting steel sleeves, come with limitations. This has driven the exploration of advanced methods like fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. The aim of my study is to assess how structural elements respond when rehabilitated with FRP technology in harsh marine environments, offering potential advantages over conventional methods.

Q3. When did you become interested in this field?

My passion for these fields grew stronger during my Master's as I delved deeper into materials and structures. Although my PhD now focuses on steel, it perfectly aligns with my broader goal of advancing materials and structures that can benefit industries. Working with fibre-reinforced polymers (FRP) as an alternative method old repairing techniques for rehabilitating corroded offshore structures allows me to combine my passion with engineering innovation.

Q4. What made you interested in it?

Q5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I hope to provide valuable insights into the use of FRP technology for rehabilitating corroded offshore structures. I aim to contribute to more efficient solutions for extending the lifespan of these deteriorated structures. A significant challenge is demonstrating the resilience and long-term performance of FRP in harsh marine environments which adds complexity to material performance.

Q6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

In the long term, I aspire to work in research and development, ideally within industries focused on sustainable engineering solutions. I aim to continue advancing materials technology for infrastructure rehabilitation, contributing to sustainable practices in civil and offshore engineering.

Q7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The opportunity to work alongside community researchers and industry experts is one of the best things about being an ACM CRC PhD student. Additionally, the support network within this organisation is invaluable for both personal and professional growth.

Q8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

I would encourage cultivating curiosity and resilience and understand the power of composites across different fields. Working in this field is challenging but ultimately rewarding.

Q9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people.

Although my research focuses on civil engineering and steel, many would be surprised to know that I have a keen interest in nutrition, particularly in how it can help individuals maintain their health.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

9 Questions with Roan Morwood-Portoles, ACM CRC PhD Student

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:03:46 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Roan Morwood-Portoles from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, The University of Queensland (UQ).

Roan has experience in the construction and boat building industries and completed his thesis on the design and characterisation of polymer matrix composite materials for use as thermal protection systems (TPS). His current PhD topic is on developing tools for optimisation and design of TPS for hybrid rocket nozzles covering high-temperature composites, with specific emphasis on ceramic matrix composites. His specific areas of interest include: ceramic matrix composite and polymer matrix composite manufacturing; design and manufacturing of thermal protection systems, material ablation modelling; heat transfer modelling; nozzle design; and hybrid rocket motor ablation.

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project sits under Research Program 2 (Manufacturing Processes) , Research Program 3 (Simulation and Performance Prediction) , and Research Program 4 (Design and Integration) .

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

The focus of my PhD is on developing tools to optimise the design and manufacture of thermal protection systems for hybrid rocket nozzles. More specifically, this involves investigating and modelling the degradation of rocket nozzle liners as a form of semi-passive thermal protection through the mechanism of material ablation.

The base concept of thermal protection through ablation for a polymer matrix composite is the resin absorbing aerothermal heat from a fluid flow (in this case a rocket exhaust) and charring while being held by reinforcing fibres. Heat is thus dissipated from the underlying structure through the vaporisation and transport of the char layer.

Experimental testing and numerical modelling of various material combinations is required to understand the degradation of a nozzle liner and thus ensure a successful flight.

3. When did you become interested in this field? And what made you interested in it?

The topic of high-temperature composites was introduced to me during discussions with my supervisor before beginning my postgraduate studies.

4. What made you interested in it?

I grew up on the coast around fibreglass manufacturing and have fond memories of working with composites from a young age. This led into working with the UQ composites group during my undergraduate degree and, now, working at the cutting-edge of high-temperature composites, which was just a natural progression of this interest.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

I hope to complete my PhD and through this help provide a bridge between theory and practical manufacturing/design of rocket nozzles. A major challenge to overcome is applying laboratory scale testing results of varied material combinations to a full-scale rocket nozzle environment. I hope by the end of my PhD to have developed a method and associated tools to support rapid, low-cost rocket nozzle design.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to continue working in the field of high-temperature composites after completing my PhD, whether that be in academia or industry.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

I appreciate the support, opportunities for collaboration and making new connections that are brought to me by being a part of ACM CRC.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

When it comes to composites, there is never one right way to do something. This can be intimidating but it also provides a great opportunity for anyone open to using their mind and exploring new things in the wide world of composites, so I would say don’t be afraid to give it a try!

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

I’m very good at turning running and driving cars into not running cars.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

Global adventure for ACM CRC PhD candidate leads to worldly insights for Australia’s composites manufacturing sector

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:42:15 GMT

ACM CRC PhD student, Alex Air, recently embarked on a 3-month trip to Europe to spend time at DLR, the German Aerospace Centre. For Alex, this amazing opportunity was a real eye-opener into how composites manufacturing is managed on the other side of the world...

The work Alex undertook while overseas will form an integral part of his PhD research, with outputs offering valuable insight for future projects between DLR and ACM CRC.

“Thanks to ACM CRC’s support, I was able to complete research work in partnership with the team at the DLR Institute of Structures and Design in Stuttgart, Germany, as well as being given the opportunity to visit their sister facility in Augsburg, and thermoplastic fibre placement equipment manufacturer AFPT ,” said Alex.

“My time at DLR focussed on conducting helium permeability measurements of carbon fibre samples produced using automated fibre placement at room and liquid nitrogen temperature. I also got to see how they perform their research and utilise similar equipment to what we have at UNSW, but in different ways – which was a great learning experience.

“I realise this all sounds very technical to the non-scientist, but to a researcher in composites manufacturing, it was truly very exciting!”

While in Europe, Alex also dropped into the University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy, to present at the 27th International Conference on Composite Structures (ICCS27). Presenting as part of a special session, “Recent developments and challenges in design and manufacturing composite pressure vessels”, Alex focused on his work with colleagues Dr Ebrahim Oromiehie and Prof. Gangadhara Prusty in automated fibre placement manufacturing of composite pressure vessels.

Alex concluded his trip at the National Composites Centre in the UK , where he got to see their large format Electroimpact AFP/ATL cell, Coriolis C1 AFP cell and their ultra-high-rate deposition cell , custom developed with Loop Technology.

“This trip has been the highlight of my PhD experience. Conducting research in a new environment with different people was a fantastic way to broaden my perspectives and gain deeper technical and practical knowledge. And being able to share my own knowledge with a room full of composite manufacturing enthusiasts in Italy was just incredible.

“I would like to thank everyone who made this trip and the broad expansion of my education possible, especially Sebastian Nowotny, Head of Component Design and Manufacturing Technologies at DLR Stuttgart, for his time and investment into making my trip so valuable, and to ACM CRC, without whom this trip would not have happened.

“I look forward to applying my learnings to my PhD, and using the outputs to help advance the Australian composites manufacturing industry,” Alex concluded.

Interested in a PhD opportunity with ACM CRC?

ACM CRC Celebrates Success and Sets Sights on New Projects

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 04:31:41 GMT

The Advanced Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) Partner Meeting, held on November 25-26, 2024, showcased the consortium’s growing impact, with 30 approved research projects, 31 partners across industry, research, and government, and significant support for emerging talent through 10 HDR student bursaries, 22 industry HDR scholarships, and three RISE Fellowships. The event also highlighted the group’s eagerness to expand its project portfolio and drive global innovation in advanced composites

Advancing Australia’s Composites Economy

Since its formation, ACM CRC has championed industry-led initiatives across Composite Materials , Manufacturing Processes , Simulation, Performance Prediction ,

and Design Integration . These projects aim to overcome barriers in composites development, enabling Australia to strengthen its position in the global composites market.

From developing cost-efficient, high-temperature polymer-based ablative materials to designing compact, lightweight travel surfboards, ACM CRC’s 31 partners are driving diverse innovations to reposition Australia as a leader in composites manufacturing and sovereign engineering. “Our mission to grow manufacturing in Australia is driven by investments in advanced technologies, workforce development, supply chain improvements, sustainability, and supportive government policies,” said ACM CRC CEO Dr Steve Gower.

Aligning with National Priorities

The ACM CRC’s efforts align closely with the Australian Government’s Strategic Examination of Research and Development (R&D), which emphasises the importance of enhancing Australia’s appeal as a hub for R&D. The initiative aims to create high-value jobs, attract global talent, and foster businesses capable of competing in international supply chains. “The Cooperative Research Centres Program is uniquely positioned to support these goals,” Dr Gower explained. “ACM CRC is committed to expanding its research portfolio to strengthen Australia’s R&D system and secure future prosperity. By leveraging our scientific strengths and business partnerships, we can address national priorities and develop new industries.”

Empowering Women in STEM

A highlight of the Partner Meeting was the presentation of three RISE Fellowships to exceptional young women in STEM.

This year’s recipients, all from the University of Southern Queensland, include:

Chundu Tamang
Ezgi Bal Yetim
Zaneta Senselova

Reflecting on her achievement, Zaneta Senselova expressed her aspirations: “A career in STEM allows me to explore and innovate in composite materials while encouraging more women to pursue paths in engineering and science. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our field and the world.”

Looking Ahead

Dr Gower emphasised the importance of collaboration: “We are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of our partners and fellows, and we look forward to launching more projects that enhance Australia’s sovereign capability and position us for a global turning point in advanced composites manufacturing.”

The ACM CRC continues to lead the charge in building a resilient, innovative, and globally competitive composites industry for Australia.

For more information or to join the growing list of partners, visit this page of the ACM website .

Do you have a project proposal for ACM CRC? Please reach out to the CRC with your Expression of Interest.

Interested in becoming an ACM CRC Project Partner ? Find out more here .

If you missed the meeting, please visit the event page to catch-up on the presentations.

ACM CRC is committed to expanding its research portfolio to strengthen Australia’s R&D system and secure future prosperity. By leveraging our scientific strengths and business partnerships, we can address national priorities and develop new industries.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

Big step taken towards optimising Australia’s sovereign Uncrewed Aircraft System airframe design

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 06:34:56 GMT

ACM CRC Partners, Quickstep and RMIT University , have teamed up to develop and demonstrate an optimised sovereign Uncrewed Aircraft System airframe design, with the knowledge and technology developed to be readily transferrable to other partners within the sovereign composites manufacturing domain.

Aircraft design today is bounded by traditional material manufacturing limitations, leading to cost overruns. Often with new technologies, such as complex airframe design with new materials, the basic manufacture processes are defined with little detail.

Quickstep is looking to build on its innovative AeroQure technology to design and build a highly modular composite Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS) airframe for the rapidly expanding drone delivery market, which is thought to be worth $US54 billion by 2030 .

This ACM CRC project is combining advanced composite manufacturing and simulation-based design and optimisation to deliver a multi-physics simulation tool, aerodynamic and structural testing, and full-scale flight demonstration, to verify the development of a cost-effective and cutting-edge airframe design.

“Aircraft design methodology has remained relatively unchanged for many years. While there is a plethora of UAS designs in our skies today, almost all are designed for a specific mission,” said Luke Preston, Head of Technology and Partnerships at Quickstep. “The Quickstep UAS meets the requirements of a multi-mission capability by having modular aerostructure and payload configurations. It leverages a toolless, automated interface whereby a variety of payloads to suit a different missions can be identified, captured, and carried without tedious human intervention. The UAS will serve diverse use cases including bushfire fighting, tactical resupply, middle-mile logistics, and more,“ he added.

The project is helping tackle key challenges in composite materials manufacturing, with a focus on intelligent manufacturing, automation, affordability, and performance. It supports the upskilling necessary for critical technology implementation and know-how, while also building analysis tools for the digital value chain. And it demonstrates design integration by enhancing design processes for digital manufacturing and technology validation of certification-ready designs of UAS composite airframes through flight testing.

“This will build upon the expertise of RMIT University in composite aerostructures, aircraft and UAS design and development, composite materials and structures testing and characterisation, multi-physics simulation, and advanced analytic tools,” said Pier Marzocca, Director of the Sir Lawrence Wackett Aerospace Research Centre at RMIT University.

It is also expected the multi-role capability, combined with the design for automated and advanced manufacturing techniques, will enable Quickstep to bring utilitarian sovereign UAS capability to the global market.

“The outputs of the research, such as cost-competitive composite materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and multi-physics simulation capabilities, will be used to enhance the design, manufacturing, and performance optimisation of highly modular sovereign UAS,” said Dr Steve Gower, ACM CRC CEO.

“These outputs will also contribute to advancing Australian manufacturing capabilities, fostering innovation, and competing globally in the dynamic aviation technology landscape. The benefits from these outputs will reach end-users through technology transfer, licensing agreements, or direct implementation of the developed technologies in commercial UAS production,” he added.

For more information or to express your interest in project participation, please reach out to us .

The outputs of the research, such as cost-competitive composite materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and multi-physics simulation capabilities, will be used to enhance the design, manufacturing, and performance optimisation of highly modular sovereign UAS.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

8 Questions with Sachini Dissanayake, ACM CRC PhD Student

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 01:19:58 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Sachini Dissanayake from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, Deakin University .

Sachi is pursuing her doctorate in designing and investigating a durable self-healing epoxy coating, at Deakin University. She completed her BSc (Hons) in Polymer Chemistry at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka, and now aims to develop a coating capable of autonomously and repeatedly restoring its properties under typical environmental conditions that, in the long term, will serve as a protective layer to enhance the durability of composite materials. Sachi is fascinated by materials with unique functionalities – materials that can change shape or even clean themselves – and truly believes that functional materials are the future and hold the potential to transform our world.

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

RP1 High-Performance Composite Materials .

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD research focuses on designing and investigating a durable self-healing epoxy coating. The aim is to develop a coating capable of autonomously and repeatedly restoring its properties under typical environmental conditions. In the long term, this coating will serve as a protective layer to enhance the durability of composite materials.

3. When did you become interested in this field? And what made you interested in it?

Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by materials with unique functionalities – materials that can change shape or even clean themselves. As I grew older, this interest turned into a desire to create these innovative materials myself. I truly believe that functional materials are the future and hold the potential to transform our world.

4. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I aim to develop a self-healing epoxy coating that can autonomously repair itself under normal environmental conditions. This coating would provide a reliable, long-lasting protective layer for composite materials, reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance.

The primary challenge I hope to solve is creating a coating that not only restores its properties upon damage, but does so repeatedly and effectively over time while being durable under the conditions. By tackling these challenges, I hope my work can contribute to more sustainable and resilient materials in industries where composites are heavily used, such as the aerospace and automotive sectors.

5. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to become a recognised scientist in the field of materials science, contributing innovative solutions that address critical challenges in durability, functionality, and sustainability. I want to lead research that not only advances our understanding of self-healing and functional materials, but also pushes the boundaries of what materials can achieve in real-world applications.

Beyond individual research achievements, I aim to build a collaborative network with scientists and industry leaders worldwide, bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications. Ultimately, I envision developing materials that are integral to sustainable technologies and resilient infrastructure, making a meaningful impact on industries and society. This vision drives my commitment to both deep scientific exploration and impactful innovations.

6. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

Networking with key experts in the field is invaluable, aligning perfectly with my long-term goal of building meaningful professional connections. ACM CRC provides exceptional support and guidance to collaborative opportunities that deepen my expertise. Being part of this community enriches my research journey and helps me work toward becoming an established scientist in materials science.

7. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

If you are passionate – you can do it!

8. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

That’s a hard one. I'm a good singer and I love playing the guitar.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

Achieving sustainable waste management in the composites industry

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 04:29:27 GMT

The global push towards sustainable materials management and circular economies poses challenges for the composites industry. A new ACM CRC project is addressing a critical unmet need in Australia’s industry, namely, the sustainable recycling of Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites.

FRP composites are seeing an increased use by several industries including aerospace, automotive, construction, and renewable energy, due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and durability.

As such, the market for FRP composites is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate of 7.84%, reaching US$381.212 billion by 2028 from US$224.723 billion in 2021 (Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence, 2023).

Great as this is for our composites manufacturing industry, it also poses a potential environmental and economic challenge – sustainable waste management.

A new ACM CRC scoping project, led by The University of Sydney , is conducting a comprehensive market analysis of the recycling potential of FRP composite materials in Australia, in the hope the research will pave the way for viable FRP composite recycling solutions.

“Together with ACM CRC partners HERA , Deakin University , and Rux Energy , we are investigating industry needs and future directions through market analysis, waste production mapping, recycling pathways assessment, cost-benefit analysis, and lifecycle analysis, to identify sustainable recycling approaches that can be adopted by Australian industries, and mitigate the imminent problem posed by FRP waste,” said Dr Ali Hadigheh , Associate Head for Research Education at the University of Sydney’s School of Civil Engineering.

The project is expected to benefit composite manufacturers, environmental agencies, and end-users by offering valuable insights into recycling processes, circular design and reuse, waste reduction, and the shift toward environmentally responsible practices, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. Notably, its aims align with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, and reinforce Australia's Net Zero emission targets.

“The challenges and solutions identified in this study will contribute to global efforts to reduce FRP composite waste and its environmental impact,” said Dr Steve Gower, CEO at ACM CRC. “By examining international advancements, we are ensuring that Australia remains competitive in adopting environmentally responsible practices within the broader context of global sustainability goals.”

ACM CRC research seeks to advance knowledge in materials sustainability and support Australia's transition towards a circular economy. It is hoped that the recommendations from this project will identify sustainable pathways for recycling of FRP composites in Australia, and contribute to global best practice through the implementation of efficient waste management strategies and actionable recommendations.

“The Australian industry can significantly benefit from sustainable recycling pathways, potentially reducing disposal costs, conserving resources, and contributing to a more sustainable and circular approach to materials use,” concluded Dr Gower.

The challenges and solutions identified in this study will contribute to global efforts to reduce FRP composite waste and its environmental impact.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

Transforming Composite Coating Processes for Australia’s Critical Industries

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 02:56:14 GMT

A new ACM CRC project is set to develop a cutting-edge, high-efficiency laser cladding system, advancing the next generation of fully automated laser cladding technology. This system will be used to design and create multi-functional metal matrix composite (MMC) coatings, with applications in a wide range of industries including marine, mining, defence, and more.

MMC and other metal-based composites are critical to the Australian economy. Currently, sourcing replacement parts for machinery from overseas often results in long lead times, increasing machinery downtime for Australian companies. Laser cladding repairs worn or corroded parts, reducing downtime and creating value locally. The same process can also be used to produce new parts, enhancing efficiency and supporting local manufacturing.

This project will examine the effects of different process parameters on the microstructure, hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of laser composite coatings. While cost-effective construction steels are commonly used for surface coatings, the proposed laser cladding technology offers an advanced alternative. It provides surface treatments that significantly improve the durability and performance of parts. This technology has already been successfully applied in industries such as aviation, automotive, marine, mining, gas, and oil, extending the lifespan of equipment and reducing the need for new production.

Through this project, ACM CRC Partners LaserBond and The University of Sydney will develop an automated, high-efficiency laser cladding process and an in-house catalogue of materials and process parameters. This will serve as a comprehensive guide for using laser cladding to create high-wear and corrosion-resistant coatings.

The project combines process manufacturing optimisation, characterisation, and simulation to address challenges and bottlenecks in automating the process. The goal is to create a fully integrated, automated laser cladding system for superior LaserBond coatings designed for extreme environments.

“With project partners from The University of Sydney, we aim to strengthen Australia’s manufacturing capabilities through quality monitoring, prototype assessment, and simulation of the coating process,” said Dr Thomas Schläfer, Research and Development Manager at LaserBond, a surface engineering company focused on enhancing the performance of machinery in Australia and beyond.

Prof. Anna Paradowska, Co-lead Chief Investigator and Conjoint Professor at The University of Sydney’s School of Civil and Aerospace Engineering, emphasised the importance of precise control over process parameters, such as laser power and scanning speed, in achieving the desired coating properties. “Systematic studies are still needed to understand the time-related properties of MMC coatings, like wear and corrosion resistance, which are critical for industrial applications.”

Dr. Li Chang, Co-lead Chief Investigator and Senior Lecturer at The University of Sydney, added, “Manufacturing efficiency and quality control will be ensured through automated monitoring and control technology. This approach will be validated by producing MMC coatings with enhanced wear and corrosion resistance.”

Dr. Steve Gower, ACM CRC CEO, highlighted the broader economic impact of the project:

“Corrosion, exacerbated by climate change, costs countries 3-4% of their GDP. The demand for environmentally friendly and economical processes to produce high-quality coatings is growing. Understanding corrosion mechanisms in MMC coatings is essential to developing wear and corrosion-resistant solutions, which requires expert knowledge and specialised testing. Our project brings together this expertise to support manufacturers and policymakers in optimising resources, reducing waste, and creating more sustainable products."

The new laser cladding technology is environmentally friendly, operating without harmful chemicals or noise emissions. This breakthrough has immediate relevance for LaserBond and ACM CRC, with significant potential to benefit marine, chemical, mining, defence, and space industries in Australia and globally.

For more information or to express your interest in the project, please contact us .

"With project partners from The University of Sydney, we aim to strengthen Australia’s manufacturing capabilities through quality monitoring, prototype assessment, and simulation of the coating process."

Dr Thomas Schläfer

Research and Development Manager, LaserBond

ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2024

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 00:15:51 GMT

Thank you for attending the ACM CRC Partner Meeting!

Together, we celebrated 30 approved research projects, 31 incredible partners, and the award of 10 HDR bursaries, 22 industry scholarships, and 3 RISE Fellowships for exceptional young women in STEM.

The event highlighted our shared commitment to driving global innovation in advanced composites and strengthening Australia’s composites manufacturing and engineering capabilities.

Catch the highlights and photos from the meeting here .

If you missed the meeting, catch up and read the presentations below (more will be published soon).

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Join us at the ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2024 , where the theme is SMEs, Access to Supply Chains, and The Importance of IP in R&D.

This meeting is an opportunity for industry, academia and government to come together to review the challenges we’ve faced and celebrate the achievements we’ve accomplished to date, and to brainstorm and collaborate on the way forward, so we can keep collectively reaching our milestones and driving the composites manufacturing industry forward.

The event offers topical keynote presentations, panel sessions and industry-led breakout sessions on new projects, based on enabling technologies such as fire-retardant resins, cheaper fibres, Industry 4.0 toolkit, and more.

There will also be a Deakin site visit/lab tour, the presentation of three RISE Fellowships to young women with exceptional potential in STEM, and plenty of opportunities for discussions and networking.

Industry-led Breakout Sessions

As with our previous meetings, there will be industry-lead breakout sessions/workshops. The topics at this year's partner meeting are the following:

Topic 1: Fire-Retardant Resins
Topic 2: High-rate manufacturing
Topic 3: Environmental, Social and Governance systems
Topic 4: Quality Management Systems

Panel Sessions

Panel 1: Sovereign Manufacturing – Challenges and Rewards
Panel Members
Ben Francis | BAE Systems Australia
David Buchanan | Advanced Fibre Cluster
John Dignam | Wagners CFT
Panel 2: IP in R&D and Supply Chains
Panel Members
Ashley Denmead | Carbon Revolution
Tony Carolan | Advanced Composite Structures Australia (ACS-A)

Advanced Fibre Cluster video - click here .

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Jennifer Conley

Chief Executive Officer

Geelong Manufacturing Council

Prof. Philip Withers

Regius Professor of Materials

The University of Manchester

Tony Carolan

Director

Advanced Composite Structures Australia (ACS-A )

Dr Ashley Denmead

Chief Technology Officer and Founder

Carbon Revolution

SPEAKERS

Nathan Howell

Lead Engineer, Composites Manufacturing

Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility

David Buchanan

CEO

Advanced Fibre Cluster

LOCATION

Deakin University Geelong Waurn Ponds campus is located on 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds.

The ACM CRC Partner Meeting will be held at the Institute of Frontier Materials (IFM) Building.

IFM is located in Building NA along Nicol Drive North - click here to view the campus map .

The two main rooms the meeting will be held on are rooms NA1.417 and NA1.418.

Networking drinks will be at Waurn Pond Estate , a short 15-minute walk from Building NA.

Parking
Geelong Waurn Ponds has free parking in Car Park 3 in the 'Park and Go' area. Alternatively, paid parking is available on campus at a number of different car parks

Changes to how you pay for parking

From 25 November , OPark will become Deakin’s short-term parking permit solution, replacing CellOPark.

If you already have an account with CellOPark, you will NOT need to re-register in OPark as your account will be securely and automatically migrated.

However, you will be prompted to set a new password upon first time logging into OPark.

What you need to do:

From 25 November, download the OPark App from either Google Play or Apple Store.
Log into your OPark account, reset your password and use this App from now on.

The rest should be very familiar to you. Should you require help, assistance isn’t far away. Email your questions to OPark - support@opark.com.au or call 6160 1012.

Further information can be found at https://opark.com.au

You can also email Deakin’s Parking Team – parking@deakin.edu.au

Visit https://www.deakin.edu.au/about-deakin/locations/campuses/parking to learn more.

For public transport information, visit https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/student-life-and-services/campus-information/getting-to-deakin/waurn-ponds

ACCOMMODATION

Stay at Novotel Geelong and receive 10% discount off the best unrestricted rate of the day!
BOOKINGS

Contact Reservations directly and quote code ‘2024ACMCRC’
e: reservations@novotelgeelong.com.au
ph: +61 3 5273 5757

Click here for more information

Contact the ACM team at events@acmcrc.com for more information.

Event Name: ACM CRC Partner Meeting 2024

Event date: 25 & 26 November 2024

Location: Deakin University, Waurn Ponds | Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) | 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds VIC 3216

9 Questions with Yaning Wei

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 01:24:07 GMT

Dr Yaning Wei graduated from the University of Sydney in 2023 with the Faculty of Engineering PhD Completion Award.

She is now a postdoctoral researcher in the School of Civil Engineering at the University of Sydney, where she is also a member of the Smart Materials and Sustainable Structures (SMS2) group.

1. Within which ACM CRC Research Program/s are you working?

I work within Research Program 1 , involved in the Sustainable Waste Management in the Composite Industry project. This project is dedicated to performing an in-depth market analysis of the recycling potential for fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials within the Australian context. The initiative seeks to address the pressing issue of sustainable waste management in the composites industry by identifying viable recycling pathways, ultimately contributing to the development of long-term, sustainable FRP recycling solutions. Through this work, we aim to facilitate the industry’s transition towards circular economy practices, minimising environmental impact while optimising resource use.

2. What was the focus of your PhD?

My PhD research was centred on creating a closed-loop life cycle for carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. The goal was to develop sustainable strategies for the recycling and reuse of CFRP materials, which are widely used in industries such as aerospace and automotive. This work is crucial for improving material efficiency, conserving energy, and reducing environmental impacts, particularly in light of the increasing use of CFRP in advanced engineering applications. The developed innovative recycling methods maintain the high mechanical properties of recovered fibres while enhancing the sustainability of the composites sector.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

My interest in this field began in 2019, coinciding with the start of my PhD. I became fascinated by the challenges posed by waste management and circular economy principles, particularly in relation to fibre-reinforced composites. As I progressed in my studies, my focus deepened on exploring sustainable solutions for recycling FRP and CFRP materials, driven by the increasing demand for these composites and fibres and the corresponding waste challenges they present.

4. What made you interested in it?

My initial academic focus on green construction and sustainable materials sparked my interest in the lifecycle of advanced construction materials such as FRP. As I investigated the environmental challenges posed by FRP waste, I realised the need for innovative recycling solutions to address the large volumes of material sent to landfills. This led me to explore cost-effective methods for reclaiming the value of fibres from FRP waste, with the objective of reintegrating them into the production cycle, thereby contributing to a more sustainable industry.

5. What can your PhD bring to the CRC? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

This project offers the opportunity to extend my PhD research by conducting a market analysis and proposing future applications. It aims to address FRP waste by conducting a scoping study, encompassing market analysis, waste production mapping, recycling pathways assessment, cost-benefit analysis, and life cycle analysis. The goal is to identify sustainable recycling approaches that Australian industries can adopt to mitigate the growing FRP waste issue. This project will benefit composite manufacturers, environmental agencies, and end-users by providing valuable insights into recycling processes, circular design, waste reduction, and fostering environmentally responsible practices.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to refine the advance combined recycling and fibre realignment technologies that enable the direct production of aligned short recycled fibres. This development would simplify the use of recycled carbon fibre (rCF) in manufacturing and significantly enhance its market acceptance. By creating streamlined processes for incorporating recycled fibres into production, I hope to facilitate the broader use of recycled composites in high-performance applications, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the industry.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC Postdoc Researcher?

It is an honour to be an ACM CRC Postdoctoral Researcher. The role provides access to a network of leading researchers and industry professionals, fostering collaboration across disciplines. This collaborative environment not only supports innovative research but also enhances the potential for more practical application. Engaging with industry stakeholders and academic peers alike creates valuable opportunities for the development of new ideas and technologies.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

For researchers entering the field of composites manufacturing, I would emphasise the importance of considering the entire lifecycle of composite materials, particularly in relation to waste minimisation and recycling. Beyond focusing on optimising recycling processes and integrating recycled materials into new applications, researchers also may explore methods for reducing waste generation during the manufacturing phase, as prevention is the most effective way to manage waste. Embracing sustainability from the outset will ensure that research contributes to the long-term viability of the composites industry.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

One outcome of my PhD study was the development of an innovative hybrid recycling method capable of recovering high-quality carbon fibres from composite waste, including discarded carbon fibre bike forks and aerospace wasted materials. This method retains high mechanical properties of the fibres, making them suitable for reuse in high-performance applications. We are currently developing more recycling technologies to enhance its scalability and improve its environmental impact.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

9 Questions with Joshua Grosser, ACM CRC PhD Student

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 00:47:10 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Josh Grosser from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, UNSW Sydney .

Josh is an MPhil student at UNSW, and a Mechanical Engineer with experience in the maritime and composites industry. He’s currently working with ACM CRC Industry partner, Ocius Technology, designing and building the Bluebottle USVs (unmanned surface vessels). Josh is completing an industry research Masters focussed on developing the Bluebottle’s wave propulsion flipper. Teamed with Fangbao Tian and Garth Pearce, they are using data feedback from Ocius trials as inputs into Fangbao’s FSI solver to iterate and improve the vessel’s performance.

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

Research Program 2: Manufacturing Processes , Research Program 3: Simulation, Performance Prediction , Research Program 4: Design Integration .

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My research is focussed on the development of the Ocius flipper – a flexible foil that harnesses the heave of our boats to provide a passive means of wave induced propulsion.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

I first learned about wave power in high school with the Pelamis wave energy converter. It stuck with me. Interest in fluids and flow has been an interest for as long as I can remember.

4. What made you interested in it?

Growing up by the coast taught me a love for the ocean from an early age. Spending time surfing and sailing, I quickly developed an appreciation for the understanding of flow – not only in engineering design (fin, hull, and sails), but also in nature (waves, fish, weather). Having a dad in the composite boat building industry exposed me to developing technologies and got me hooked.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

The Ocius Bluebottle is an interesting blend of emerging and sustainable technology that makes a great platform for testing concepts such as the flipper. Through this project, I hope to provide a reliable flipper with measurable performance so that the Bluebottle can save power and stay at sea for longer periods of time. Some challenges include balancing flex and fatigue and tuning the flipper for varied sea conditions.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

Broadly, I hope to have a net-positive impact on the world. By working on/researching emerging technologies, I have an opportunity to influence the industries direction in a sustainable and ethical manner. As an engineer, I aspire to connect people with solutions.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

Studying and working through the CRC is a unique opportunity to bridge industry and research. It is a great source of knowledge and a network with the Australian composites industry, and provides a practical research environment in which results are tangible and immediate.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

There’s a lot of development potential in researching composites manufacturing, and applications are still emerging. It is a field that naturally connects a network of cutting edge (and interesting) technologies across many different industries. I would recommend post grad research to those with a hungry brain and I would recommend the composites manufacturing field to those who are interested in high performance materials and emerging technologies.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

I have an exploratory itch that continues to push my comfort zone and has taken me sailing across the Pacific and Atlantic oceans in varied boats and roles.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

9 Questions with Mustafa Siddiqui

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 03:07:05 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Mustafa Siddiqui, from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, UNSW Sydney .

Mustafa Siddiqui is a PhD student at UNSW, specialising in the development of advanced Digital Twin models for optimising manufacturing processes, particularly for Omni Tankers Manufacturing Plant. His research integrates AI and Machine Learning with Digital Twin technology to enhance manufacturing efficiency by detecting and mitigating manufacturing bottlenecks, which are significant obstacles that slow down production. His research also focuses on ensuring efficient resource allocation, production scheduling, and strategic decision-making in manufacturing operations. With a background in publishing research on AI-enabled digital twins and machine learning applications, Mustafa is committed to advancing industrial technology and enhancing operational efficiency in global manufacturing.

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD is part of Research Program 2 and Research Program 3 .

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD research is centred on developing an advanced Digital Twin model aimed at enhancing manufacturing operations. Manufacturing processes are crucial for industries and addressing bottlenecks – significant obstacles that slow down production – is a key challenge. Integrating AI and machine learning with real-time data analytics, my research focuses on detecting current and predicting future bottlenecks.

Furthermore, the research employs prescriptive analytics to recommend proactive strategies for detected or predicted bottleneck mitigation. The digital twin also enables comprehensive scenario analysis for optimal resource allocation for efficient production scheduling, ultimately enhancing key performance indicators (KPIs) in manufacturing.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

I became interested in this field during my Master’s degree, which was entirely research-based. During my degree, I learned the concept of Digital Twin.

4. What made you interested in it?

I developed an interest in Digital Twin due to its divergence from traditional simulation-based approaches. Researchers in academia are actively exploring its vast potential and capabilities. Digital Twin offers innovative solutions to complex challenges in manufacturing operations and can play a significant role in Industry 5.0.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

Through my PhD, I aim to propose a framework for the manufacturing industry to effectively tackle the substantial challenge of manufacturing bottlenecks using Digital Twin. My objective is to propose a methodology that integrates Digital Twin, advanced optimisation techniques, and industrial AI for precise prescriptive analysis to mitigate the bottlenecks to enhance the efficiency of the manufacturing process.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to become a leader in the field of the advanced manufacturing industry. I aim to drive innovation by developing robust methodologies that address manufacturing challenges, ultimately contributing to the advancement of sustainable and efficient production processes.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student is the opportunity to collaborate with leading composites industry partners in Australia. Engaging in industrial projects provides me with the satisfaction of tackling real-world challenges rather than purely theoretical issues. This practical experience enhances my research and allows me to make significant contributions to industrial advancements.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

One piece of advice I would give is to actively seek industry connections. Engaging with industry provides invaluable real-world exposure and practical experience that can benefit your research journey. It not only enhances the relevance of your work but also opens doors to collaborative opportunities and career advancements in the field.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

During my Master’s degree (18-month program), I published two papers within my first year. My research focused on Artificial Intelligence-enabled Digital Twin for predictive maintenance in industrial automation systems, as well as developing a framework for Digital Twin modelling of black box systems using Machine Learning. These achievements underscore my dedication to advancing knowledge in industrial technology through rigorous research.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

9 Questions with Mohammed Malaibari

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:53:10 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Mohammed Malaibari, from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, UNSW Sydney .

Mohammed Malaibari is a PhD candidate in the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW Sydney. He holds a Master of Science in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering from the same institution. His primary research interests include Digital Twin, Knowledge Graph, Data Management, Industry 4.0, and Circular Economy.

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD is part of Research Program 2 , Research Program 3 and Research Program 4 .

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

The focus of my PhD research is on enhancing data management in the design stage using Digital Twin technology integrated with knowledge graphs. This approach addresses heterogeneous data and resolves data silos in manufacturing environments.

Additionally, I’m optimising resource allocation in labour-intensive manufacturing through advanced machine learning techniques. This combination of technologies aims to improve decision-making, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency in the manufacturing industry.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

I became attracted to this field when working as a teaching assistant for a course on Manufacturing Industrial Systems Simulation. This role allowed me to delve deeply into the complexities of manufacturing systems, sparking my enthusiasm for the subject. Additionally, the recent advancements in AI and IoT have opened up new and exciting opportunities, further fuelling my interest and commitment to exploring innovative solutions in this area.

4. What made you interested in it?

My interest in this field arises from the complexity of manufacturing systems and the potential for process representation, measurement, and improvement. The emergence of the Digital Twin concept has particularly captivated me, offering innovative capabilities and opportunities for developing cutting-edge solutions. This combination drives my passion for advancing in this area.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

I aim to develop a framework for the creation of digital twins specifically during the design phase in the manufacturing industry. My primary objective is to establish a unified data repository that addresses prevalent issues such as data heterogeneity and data silos, which currently impede seamless data integration and utilisation. By leveraging the digital twin framework and integrating advanced machine learning techniques, I will explore strategies to optimise resource utilisation to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

I aim to enrich the manufacturing field with impactful research that can be implemented in real-world applications. I seek to influence industry standards, promote sustainable practices, and mentor future engineers, fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking industry culture.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The opportunity to apply my research in real-life settings. This allows me to address actual problems faced by industry leaders, making my work highly relevant and impactful. Being part of this program helps me see the big picture and understand how my contributions fit into the broader context of the industry and its future.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

My advice is to stay curious and proactive. Engage with industry leaders, seek out practical applications for your research, and embrace collaboration. This will make your work more impactful and relevant, enhancing your PhD experience and career prospects.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

For the past 12 years, alongside my studies and primary work, I have been actively engaged in the real estate business. This experience has given me a unique perspective on applying academic knowledge to real-world situations. During my second year of undergraduate studies, I received an exclusive job offer to start immediately upon graduation. Additionally, I graduated first in my school. Furthermore, I have been offered a faculty position at my home university, which I will begin after completing my PhD, allowing me to contribute to academia and inspire future students.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

10 Questions with Dr Vladislav Yakubov

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:36:19 GMT

Dr Vladislav (‘Vlad’) Yakubov is an additive manufacturing postdoctoral research associate at ACM CRC research partner, The University of Sydney.

He received a PhD in mechanical engineering in 2022, and brings a wealth of expertise to ACM CRC Project APN006: Circular Design 4.0 – AI-based Quality Control, Manufacturing.

His specific areas of interest include additive manufacturing techniques and material characterisation.

1. Within which ACM CRC Research Program/s are you working?

I am working within Programs 2) Manufacturing Processes , 3) Simulation, Performance Prediction , and 4) Design, Integration .

2. What was the focus of your PhD?

The focus of my PhD was on laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing of Al-Ce-Si alloys.

My research was aimed to address some of the key challenges associated with processing aluminium-based alloys in additive manufacturing, specifically in terms of controlling microstructure and reducing defects.

Aluminium-cerium alloys have unique benefits for high-temperature applications and excellent printability in additive manufacturing, making them ideal for industrial applications that require both lightweight and high-performance materials.

Throughout my PhD, I worked on tailoring the process, characterising microstructure, and evaluating the mechanical properties of the manufactured parts, with the goal of improving the performance of these alloys for use in aerospace, automotive, and other demanding industries.

This work also involved significant experimentation with alloy design and thermal management strategies since this significantly impacted the manufacturing outcome.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

I became interested in additive manufacturing and materials engineering during undergraduate materials research in Asia in 2016, 2017, and 2018. This was funded by my undergraduate supervisor at the University of South Florida as part of a National Science Foundation grant.

4. What made you interested in it?

My interest in additive manufacturing was sparked by the realisation of how transformative this technology could be in enabling rapid prototyping and design freedom. During my undergraduate research, I witnessed first-hand how additive manufacturing could revolutionise manufacturing, allowing for the creation of complex geometries that were previously impossible or highly inefficient to produce.

This potential for innovation, combined with the interdisciplinary nature of the field, drew me into the research. Additionally, the prospect of contributing to advancements that could improve sustainability of heavy industry was a key motivator.

5. What can your PhD bring to the CRC? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

In my later work, I gained expertise in understanding other metal additive manufacturing processes such as additive friction stir deposition (AFSD). This knowledge can be directly applied to the CRC's goals of enhancing manufacturing processes and developing high-performance materials.

I hope to tackle challenges related to the non-uniform mechanical properties development, optimise additive manufacturing processes for recycled and composite materials, and contribute to the development of new alloys and composites that can meet the demands of advanced applications.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

My long-term goal is to become a leader in the field of additive manufacturing and materials engineering, driving innovation and contributing to the development of sustainable and high-performance materials.

I aim to work at the intersection of industry and academia, where I can translate cutting-edge research into practical applications. Ultimately, I want to contribute to advancements in aerospace, defence, and other high-tech industries, where materials performance is critical.

I am also passionate about mentoring the next generation of researchers and engineers, and I hope to inspire others to explore the possibilities within this dynamic field.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC Postdoc Researcher?

The best part of being an ACM CRC Postdoc Researcher is the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in the field of additive manufacturing and composites. The multidisciplinary environment fosters innovation and allows me to work on cutting-edge projects that have the potential to make a real impact. Additionally, the resources and support provided by the CRC enable me to push the boundaries of research, experiment with new ideas, and continuously learn and grow as a researcher.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to researchers thinking of working in the composites manufacturing area?

My advice would be to stay curious and open to learning from different disciplines. Composites manufacturing is an interdisciplinary field that combines materials science, engineering, and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Having a broad understanding of these areas will help you tackle complex challenges and innovate in your research. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries, experiment with new approaches, and collaborate with others who have complementary expertise.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

One surprising fact about me is that I’ve had the opportunity to conduct research in Asia during my undergraduate years, leading to several publications. I was involved in projects that spanned advanced materials research and cutting-edge manufacturing, which not only broadened my technical knowledge but also provided me with a unique cultural perspective on international collaboration in science and engineering.

The experience was admittedly quite challenging, and the work was fast-paced, but it helped shape my approach to challenges both in the lab and in life, by teaching me the importance of resilience, adaptability and teamwork.

10. Anything to add?

I’m passionate about the potential of additive manufacturing to contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing material waste and energy consumption in manufacturing processes. I’m excited to continue working on innovative projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible in this field, and I’m always open to new collaborations and opportunities to make a positive impact in the world.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

9 questions with Dex Chang, ACM CRC PhD Student

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 02:12:56 GMT

Our PhDs are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we introduce you to Dex Chang, from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, The University of Sydney .

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

I’m working on design optimisation with circular design 4.0: Artificial Intelligence based quality control manufacturing health monitoring reuse and recycling of composite connections, which falls under ACM CRC Research Program 1 (Composite Materials) and Research Program 4 (Design, integration).

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD program focuses on using numerical design with circular design 4.0 techniques to optimise the connection design in steel-timber composite structures. It mainly focuses on the innovative connection design between the timber slab and steel beams.

The industry has widely adopted traditional mechanical fasteners as the solution. However, recent research on novel connection designs, such as concrete grouted mechanical fixings, mechanical connections with epoxy, inclined fixings with nailed washers and new mechanical fasteners with nail plate reinforcement, suggests that the conventional connection has lower stiffness and load-bearing capacity, which means it's no longer the best option when considering sustainability and reusability.

Also, when considering the design with environmentally friendly techniques, which requires a high utilisation rate of the raw materials and reusability of the existing building element, a more sustainable modular steel and timber composite connection is becoming popular. My research is focusing on achieving a circular design 4.0 design tool for such new connection design to assist the industry.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

After discussing the topic with my supervisors, I learned that it requires us to incorporate timber elements with steel. I was really interested in and did well in steel and concrete composite structures when I was studying for my master's degree. Composite design is challenging but interesting since it can have a huge impact on the construction of new buildings.

4. What made you interested in it?

The use of circular design 4.0 has become quite popular in the construction industry in recent years. This project can be good practice for implementing circular design 4.0 and AI techniques to achieve an optimised design outcome and serve the demanding industry on the newly proposed timber and steel composite structures. Such connection with the idea of modularity and reusability will have huge potential in the construction of residential buildings, save the overall cost of the construction project and protect the environment.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

I hope to achieve a design tool to assist industrial engineers in the design of the relative connection with AI and machine-powered analysis. The expected challenges that I hope to overcome are: (1) Develop a new idea for connection design that meets sustainability requirements while minimising material use and installation difficulty; (2) To implement Circular Design 4.0 with this connection design process, and determine what parameters or evaluation criteria we should set to determine whether the outcome satisfies our goals; and (3) Regarding the AI-based connection design process, overcome the difficulty of bridging the image processing techniques with FEA analysis techniques.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

I'll try to accomplish the current project and then potentially further my study in the timber composite structure and modular element design for construction.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

Rather than another normal PhD project, we have specialised industrial partners that can provide valuable suggestions on the connection design and well-collected industry data, and help us to examine the feasibility of the outcome in real-world construction projects. Also, with the powerful community of our association, we students can have a better understanding of the connection between research and industrial needs to facilitate our design to stay on track with the industry.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Finding the right track for composite structure and a novel topic is quite challenging. By reading articles from different realms of composite structure, researchers can get some inspiration from, for example, concrete composite and other new materials for construction.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

My previous study focused on the animation and digital simulation of the construction process with Revit and Unreal Engine, and to optimise the simulation to achieve a smoother and more realistic viewer experience, and lower the hardware requirement using the LOD techniques powered by Unreal engine.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

Collaborate Innovate: Industry-Research Collaboration for a Thriving Australia

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 02:31:03 GMT

Cooperative Research Australia (CRA) is gearing up for another annual conference, with this year’s theme centred on Australia’s growing capacity and capability to lead various industries across the globe.

The theme aligns nicely with ACM CRC’s mission: to help Australia reposition its manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability to capture emergent markets.

“The Collaborate Innovate conference is renowned for connecting members of the wide community engaged in industry-research collaborative entities,” said Dr Steve Gower, CEO of ACM CRC and CRA Board Member.

“I look forward to this opportunity to extend our own networks and build on our sovereign manufacturing capability.”

This year’s program will see experts sharing insights and updates relating to the business of industry-research collaboration, and perspectives on innovation for Australian resilience.

“Although we’re still at the early stages of our 10-year program, we always have our impact objectives in mind,” Dr Gower continued.

“Our vision is to transform Australia’s established composite technologies capability into a world-class, highly automated, digitally enabled network of designers, manufacturers and service providers. The conversations and collaborations that this conference facilitates act as a fantastic catalyst for improvement and innovation, with some of Australia’s leading research and business minds coming together to achieve a common goal – to see Australia thrive.”

Dr Steve Gower, together with Professor Ganga Prusty (Director of Research), Dr Puneet Garg (Research Portfolio Manager) and Nicole Phelan (Research Partnership Manager) will be attending the CRA’s Collaborate Innovate conference , which will take place at Sofitel Brisbane from Monday 22nd – Wednesday 24th July.

The ACM team will be delighted for you to approach them at the event with any questions you may have around the ACM CRC’s research and projected impact , and to discuss potential opportunities for collaboration.

ACM CRC is a Member of Cooperative Research Australia , the voice of industry-research collaboration and advocate for the translation of research into commercial, economic, social, and environmental outcomes that benefit all Australians.

8 new Partners for Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:08:46 GMT

The Australian Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) consortium has been significantly strengthened following the addition of eight new partners.

ACM CRC is helping to break down the barriers that are currently suppressing Australia’s presence in the global composites economy, such as an over-reliance on labour-intensive manufacturing, a lack of access to international supply and open markets, and high materials transport costs.

The introduction of the eight new partners (listed below) will help build on the CRC’s already strong capacity to enhance the current composites development lifecycle, from material design to product realisation. These industry and research experts will add value around the consortium’s key research priorities, which focus on transport, energy, advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0, offering specific knowledge and expertise in the following areas:

AMSL Aero Pty Ltd : zero emissions flying.

Change Climate Pty Ltd : eco-friendly bio-epoxy resin.

Compass Pools Australia : self-cleaning pool technology.

MEMKO SYSTEMS PTY LTD : extensive engineering, quality, manufacturing and management capabilities to assist advanced and highly regulated industries.

RPC Technologies Pty Ltd : the design, engineering and manufacturing of glass reinforced composite (GRP) solutions, and special fabrications.

SteberCraft Pty Ltd : manufacturing custom-made vessels for defence, government, commercial and recreational uses.

Wagners CFT Manufacturing Pty Ltd : manufacturing innovative structural fiberglass sections using a proprietary pull-winding process that can be used as a replacement for steel, aluminium, and wood in infrastructure projects or engineering applications.

University of Southern Queensland : home of the Institute for Advanced Engineering and Space Sciences , which will be leveraged for its first-class research capability in this field.

“We’re excited to welcome such a broad scope of new Partners who will help us achieve our innovation and impact targets ,” said Dr Steve Gower, ACM CRC’s CEO.

“We’re striving to up-skill the country’s sovereign capacity for more valuable outcomes, and to de-risk and enable future industry access to advanced automation, simulation and digitisation.

“The projects in which these new Partners will be involved in will help us tackle the industry challenges currently faced in Australia and drive us closer to our vision – to transform Australia’s established composite technologies capability into a world-class, highly automated, digitally enabled network of designers, manufacturers and service providers.”

This article is supported by the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science and Resources through the Cooperative Research Centres Program.

More information

Please contact:

Dr Steve Gower

ACM CRC CEO

steve.gower@acmcrc.com

+61 425 275 159

Become an ACM CRC Partner and help lead global change

Thu, 30 May 2024 07:09:49 GMT

The $100 billion international composites industry will undergo a major automation transition.

Australia needs to reposition its manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability to capture emergent markets.

Our consortium is helping to lead this transition.

And you can be a part of it..

About the Australian Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC)

Our vision is to transform Australia’s established composite technologies capability into a world-class, highly automated, digitally enabled network of designers, manufacturers, and service providers. This will enable a step change in Australia’s manufacturing competitiveness, build sovereign capability, and capture the rising demand for just-in-time localised composites innovations, automation, and digitisation.

In short, we are Australia’s transformation opportunity in:

Green Energy and EV Economies
Supply Chain Security
Industry 4.0 Transition
Workforce Transformation
Digital Production and Export
Sovereign Manufacturing

Through our four Research Programs – Composite Materials; Manufacturing Processes; Simulation, Performance Prediction; Design, Integration – we aim to knock down the barriers spanning the current composites development lifecycle, from material design to product realisation.

We’re striving to up-skill the country’s sovereign capacity for more valuable outcomes, and to de-risk and enable future industry access to advanced automation, simulation and digitisation.

We encourage collaboration between project participants across all Programs, so all sectors can benefit.

How will you benefit?

Impact modelling for the CRC over the next 15 years indicates we’ll contribute $8.3 billion of direct economic benefit to the economy by capitalising on emerging sectors that need advanced composite materials. These sectors include the hydrogen economy, marine, defence, aerospace, space, civil infrastructure, automotive, transport, mining, oil and gas and sports and recreation industries.

As an ACM CRC Partner, you’ll play a significant role in building a digital-export-ready composites industry with cost-competitive, high-quality platform capability, thus positioning Australia as a global leader in automated composites manufacturing.

Key Benefits

Help to reduce import dependency, penetrate export markets, increase sustainability, shorten prototyping lifecycles, and create an accelerated automated composites manufacturing capacity.
Gain exclusive industry insight and access to data collated from the ACM CRC extensive industry partner consortium. Collaborate with these partners on supply chain logistics, field trials, technology demonstrations, and similar pre-commercialisation projects with large industry in the energy, infrastructure, transportation and defence sectors.
Stay at the forefront of composites manufacturing innovation, with the potential to access and collaborate on leading global research in this industry, and take part in shaping the industry’s future innovations and products.
Gain exclusive access to ACM CRC networking activities, forums, and conferences.
Be a big part of Australia’s composites manufacturing history.

More information

If you’re interested in this opportunity and would like to find out more, please contact:

Dr Steve Gower

ACM CRC CEO

steve.gower@acmcrc.com

+61 425 275 159

Made in Australia with Italian Engineering: the pathway to a sustainable future

Fri, 17 May 2024 02:55:36 GMT

The Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia (ICCIAUS) is, this month, running the second edition of Made in Australia with Italian Engineering , a series of one-day forums and exhibitions that seek to pave the way towards a sustainable future.

These events highlight the existing and potential synergies between Italian and Australian companies, creating a platform to showcase the latest innovations.

Taking place on Tuesday 21 May 2024 at The Rocks, NSW, this second exclusive forum encompasses the themes of ingenuity and the development of sustainable solutions. Its aim is to foster collaborations in advanced manufacturing that will drive the transition agenda toward a cutting-edge and environmentally greener future.

“ICCIAUS is helping to address Australia's manufacturing needs by aligning with the country’s national priorities,” said Dr Steve Gower, CEO of ACM CRC. “Many of these priorities also align with ours, here at the CRC.”

Dr Gower will appear in the forum’s second panel session, where he’ll join Ruilong Lu, R&D Manager Oceania, Prysmian, and Scientia Professor Veena Sahajwalla from the UNSW SMART Centre, to discuss Transforming Manufacturing: Innovations and Circular Economy .

“Across our four research programs , we have a strong focus on transport, energy, advanced manufacturing, and Industry 4.0, with circular economy and sustainability two of our major considerations.

“This forthcoming event is a great opportunity to bring together key stakeholders in the Australian and Italian manufacturing sectors so they may work collaboratively to drive relations and investment between the two countries. We’re excited by how these synergies could help advance Australia’s composites manufacturing industry, by enabling a step change in the country’s manufacturing competitiveness.”

Come and meet Dr Steve Gower at this second edition Made in Australia with Italian Engineering forum .

He’d be delighted for you to approach him at the event with any questions you may have around the CRC’s research and projected impact , and to discuss potential opportunities for collaboration.

This event is a great opportunity to bring together key stakeholders in the Australian and Italian manufacturing sectors so they may work collaboratively to drive relations and investment between the two countries. We’re excited by how these synergies could help advance Australia’s composites manufacturing industry, by enabling a step change in the country’s manufacturing competitiveness.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

Made in Australia with Italian Engineering (MAIE 2024)

Fri, 10 May 2024 03:59:50 GMT

The Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia (ICCIAUS) proudly presents the second edition of Made in Australia with Italian Engineering (MAIE).

This is a one-day forum and exhibition where Italian and Australian companies will have a unique opportunity to stand out and initiate a strategic dialogue with sector operators, key stakeholders and local institutions.

With a focus on ingenuity and the development of sustainable solutions , this forum will foster collaborations in advanced manufacturing that will drive the transition agenda toward a cutting-edge and environmentally greener future.

ACM's CEO Dr Steve Gower is a speaker at this second edition Made in Australia with Italian Engineering forum. He’d be delighted for you to approach him at the event with any questions you may have around the CRC’s research and projected impact , and to discuss potential opportunities for collaboration.

Event Name: Made in Australia with Italian Engineering (MAIE)

Event date: 21 May 2024

Location: Sydney, NSW

9 Questions with Van Thu HUYNH, ACM CRC PhD Student

Thu, 02 May 2024 03:39:16 GMT

We’re taking this opportunity to introduce each our PhDs to you – those who are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we speak with Van Huynh, from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, The University of Sydney .

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My doctoral research is part of Research Program 2 , focusing on Manufacturing Processes.

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD focuses on establishing an AI-based monitoring system for assessing the quality of manufactured composite products, including steelwork. This system will optimise inspection requirements and manage compliance risks through extensive big data analysis. The project also encompasses the collection and analysis of productivity data, in-service health monitoring, and the development of novel 3D printing techniques.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

During my academic journey, I recognised the potential of AI-based techniques in improving quality assessment in manufacturing, particularly for composite products like steelwork.

4. What made you interested in it?

The prospect of leveraging advanced technology to enhance product quality and efficiency captivated me, motivating me to explore this area further and contribute to its advancement.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

I hope that I can successfully build an AI-based monitoring system for effectively assessing the quality of manufactured composite products, including steelwork.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

I aim to apply my knowledge and technical skills across diverse engineering domains, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary researchers at the intersection of engineering, data science, and applied mathematics to drive innovation and solve real-world problems.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

An ACM CRC PhD student has an opportunity to translate theoretical knowledge into tangible solutions, bridging the gap between academia and industry. Additionally, the program can provide PhD students with essential knowledge of core technical skills such as problem framing, envisioning future possibilities, enhancing communication and effective collaboration skills, and addressing ethical concerns and the human-centric perspective.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

One valuable piece of advice for those considering a PhD in the composites manufacturing area is to maintain a multidisciplinary approach. This field intersects various domains, including engineering, artificial intelligence, materials science, and data analytics. Embracing this interdisciplinary perspective will not only broaden your understanding but also foster innovative solutions to complex challenges. Additionally, stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and manufacturing technologies to ensure your research remains at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field. Lastly, cultivate strong collaboration and communication skills, as effective teamwork and knowledge exchange are essential for success in tackling real-world problems in this domain.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

One of the aspects of my background that surprises people is my passion for blending AI into engineering applications, while my expertise lies in civil engineering. This unexpected fusion allows me to approach challenges with a unique perspective, leading to innovative solutions that impress others. Additionally, I have made significant contributions to the field of engineering through my track record of publishing in prominent peer-reviewed journals, such as Advances in Engineering Software, Engineering Structures, Reliability Engineering and System Safety, Steel and Composite Structures, and Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

Composites Conference 2024: solving everyday challenges with advanced composites

Wed, 01 May 2024 01:06:56 GMT

With a focus on ‘Acting on Vision’, this year’s Composites Conference will provide a strategic insight into a wide range of aspects associated with operating and growing a composites business and collaborating with composite companies.

Set to take place in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast from 1-2 May, and organised by ACM CRC Partner Composites Australia , the conference will explore how material science and the properties of advanced composites can solve everyday challenges.

The CRC’s Research Program 1 is committed to addressing key challenges in materials so they meet automation, affordability and circular economy requirements. Some of the country’s leading composite researchers are focusing on alternate material surfacing and specialist applications for specific high value uses, with targets including affordable high-performance materials, materials for automation, surface integration technologies, specialist application materials, and circular economy materials.

“There are several barriers spanning the current composites development lifecycle, from material design to product realisation. Our four Research Programs tackle these, and other industry challenges, currently faced in Australia,” said Dr Steve Gower, ACM CRC’s CEO.

“Through Research Program 1 – Composite Materials – we’re seeking to achieve a reduction in cost associated with composite materials, and an increase in the total market size of composites in the hydrogen, transportation and electric vehicles market. We want to deliver a reduction in inspection/testing cost and compliance cost in manufacturing and infrastructure industry relevant to composite material, as well as an increase in the composite repairs market and a reduction in maintenance and repair services required for public infrastructure, the resources sector and heavy industrial infrastructure. Through specialist application materials, we also aim to reduce downtime and its impacts on operation in the oil and gas market. And we want to see cost savings from the reduction in the glass fibre and carbon fibre waste disposed into landfills, and prevent the loss of market due to non-compliance of international standards on waste.”

Dr Gower will be attending the Composites Conference in May to explore further ideas that may support the CRC’s mission .

“Just as the CRC is doing, this leading Australian composites conference will share insights and perspectives on the composites sector across various market segments,“ said Dr Gower. “I’m excited for this opportunity to further explore the next generation of composite practitioners, applications and programs available to assist industry and research & development.”

Catch Dr Steve Gower at the 2024 Composites Conference from 1-2 May 2024 , where he’d be delighted to answer any questions you may have around the CRC’s research and projected impact , and to discuss potential opportunities for collaboration.

Just as the CRC is doing, this leading Australian composites conference will share insights and perspectives on the composites sector across various market segments.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

From idea to ocean: advanced manufactured travel surfboard set to make waves

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 04:37:28 GMT

Calling all surfing fanatics! How good would it be to travel more easily with your board? Imagine a travel surfboard solution that requires minimal storage space, but that surpasses current surfboard standards and delivers equally, if not better, on performance.

Well, dream no more. Investment Company, Gowing Bros Ltd (Gowings) , has identified a market opportunity for such a travel surfboard, planning to turn the vision into a reality in partnership with its brands; Gowings Pacific Trader, FCS and Softech.

This ACM CRC project will identify and develop advanced manufacturing techniques for increased board laminating quality, and will adapt automated processes for core shaping, composite material deposition (glassing), and finishing, retaining the board’s high quality while reducing manufacturing costs.

Gowings will lead the project, managing the design scope and drawing on essential market information. In addition, they will oversee compliance and standards testing, ensuring that the surfboard meets regulations and market expectations, even engaging surf athletes for field trials.

Lead research partner, The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), will also offer input into the technology-informed design, exploring the board’s performance characteristics (flex, damping, rebound, “feel”) so that they may be optimised.

The extensive research capabilities of the University of Wollongong ’s (UOW) Surf Flex Lab will also be leveraged, to encompass the entire surfing experience.

“These premium travel boards are an exciting potential for national and international markets, offering enhanced durability, performance, and sustainability,” said John Gowing, independent non-executive director of Gowings.

“This means no more lugging around sizable, weighty boards for travelling surfers, including, potentially, our athletes.”

“By infusing science and engineering into surfing, we're not just catching waves; we're changing the way surfers connect with their environment,” said Professor Marc in het Panhuis from the Surf Flex Lab.

On Tuesday 23 April 2024, Mr Gowing was joined at his Harbour Drive office by Paul Amos, Mayor of Coffs Harbour, Shadow Minister for Tourism, Gurmesh Singh MP, ACM CRC’s Dr Steve Gower (CEO), Professor David Currow (Deputy Vice-Chancellor - Research and Sustainable Future, UOW) and Professor Ganga Prusty (Director of Research, ACM CRC), to undergo a contract signing ceremony that made the project official.

“This is a very exciting project for the CRC – one that has great global potential for us, our partners, and for Australia as a nation, with the boards being designed and manufactured right here on our shores,” said Dr Gower, a keen surfer himself! “Australia needs to reposition its manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability to capture emergent markets. This project presents a great place to start.”

Australia needs to reposition its manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability to capture emergent markets. This project presents a great place to start.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

Minister announces major expansion for revolutionary circular design project

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 05:30:58 GMT

In November 2023, ACM CRC launched a project with partners HERA , The University of Sydney and ANSTO , which will lead the way in digital transformation for Circular Design 4.0.

Specifically, the project is monitoring and leveraging AI in Circular Design 4.0 to empower designers, manufacturers, and policymakers to make more informed decisions, optimise resource utilisation, reduce waste, and create products that align with the principles of the circular economy.

Following the project launch, in March 2024, Dr Troy Coyle, HERA's CEO, was joined in Australia by New Zealand’s Small Business, Manufacturing, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister, the Hon Andrew Bayly, where it was announced that the scope of, and investment in, this project would increase.

The announcement came as part of the Minister’s goal to “prioritise opportunities for Australia and New Zealand to work more closely together, to deepen their Single Economic Market”. And it included the launch of two further ‘multi-party’ CRC projects.

The first of these supporting projects will address the scientific and technical barriers for robotics and automation in composite manufacturing, seeking to review current state of the art practices across research and industry.

It aims to identify the highest value opportunities for process automation where scientific barriers are the limiting factor preventing the development industrial systems – namely, manufacturing pain points that are universal or common. The project hopes to lower the barrier to entry for smaller Partners to invest while simultaneously enabling them to develop a considerable competitive advantage with their international peers.

“I want to see our sector at the cutting edge of Industry 4.0 developments, which is why HERA is focused on developing our facilities and supporting research and services to help our manufacturing sector understand the potential for its uptake".

Dr Troy Coyle

Chief Executive Officer at HERA

The second supporting project looks at sustainable waste management in the composite industry. It will conduct a comprehensive market analysis of the recycling potential of fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) composite materials in Australia, addressing the pressing issue of sustainable waste management in the composites industry.

It is hoped this research will pave the way for viable FRP composite recycling solutions, and benefit composite manufacturers, environmental agencies, and end users by offering valuable insights into recycling processes, circular design and reuse, waste reduction, and fostering the shift toward environmentally responsible practices and contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

“Artificial intelligence is playing an increasing role behind the scenes,“ said Dr Steve Gower, CEO of the ACM CRC.

“These projects will combine AI with non-destructive testing and inspection to deliver new tools to support composite manufacturing.”

“I want to see our sector at the cutting edge of Industry 4.0 developments, which is why HERA is focused on developing our facilities and supporting research and services to help our manufacturing sector understand the potential for its uptake,” added Dr Coyle.

“HERA has long advocated for the need for a Minister of Manufacturing to represent industry more broadly across all building materials to improve outcomes not just for those directly in the manufacturing sector, but also those downstream who rely on its products and services. Having the Minister on this trip with us has been a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate Aotearoa New Zealand’s potential in this area.”

“The extension of our original project, together with the additional two multi-party projects, is clear recognition of the importance of the CRC’s work in attempting to break down barriers, and reposition and expand the collaboration between Australia and New Zealand’s manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability with next-generation cost and technology competitiveness,” concluded Dr Gower.

For more information on the project, please view the Project Summary .

View more of our research .

10 questions with Alex Air, ACM CRC PhD Student

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:03:24 GMT

Educating and Training is critical to upgrading Australia’s composites manufacturing capability, through the employment of trained graduate engineers focused on future industry.

Our HDR Program seeks to expand industry engagement, transform industry capability via 100 HDR student commencements, restructure trade capability via a refresh of industry training, and promote a proactive gender balance in the sector.

We’re taking this opportunity to introduce each our PhDs to you – those who are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry. First up, is Alex Air, from one of ACM CRC’s university partners, UNSW Sydney .

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project falls under both Research Program 1 (Composite Materials) and Research Program 4 (Design, integration) .

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

I’m investigating the application of automated fibre placement (AFP), a robotic composites manufacturing process, to composite pressure vessels. AFP is a highly flexible, tape-based process that gives designers and researchers greater flexibility in the fibre angles and thickness of composite pressure vessels than the traditional filament winding technique. This is at the sacrifice of increased complexity and more factors that must be understood, controlled, and optimised. Specifically, I am looking at the usage of AFP to produce Type V (aka. Liner less) pressure vessels that are the current state-of-the-art in compressed gas storage. Producing Type V pressure vessels requires a deep understanding of material behaviour and manufacturing processes, and is currently an area of significant scientific research.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

I developed an engineering interest in composite materials in early 2020, during the final stages of my undergraduate study at UNSW.

4. What made you interested in it?

As a car enthusiast, I have always been fascinated with composites as they are extensively used in Formula 1 and other high-performance applications. During my undergraduate degree, I was Chief Engineer at Sunswift Racing and worked on the design and Sunswift 7. Sunswift 7 features a fully composite chassis and composite suspension arms among other parts. Figuring out how to design these components and subsequently having the opportunity to manufacture them hands-on at McConaghy Boats, Gosford, sparked a deep interest in the field.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

I’m aiming to physically demonstrate an increase in the structural efficiency of a composite pressure vessel enabled by AFP. This is achieved by utilising the unique capabilities of AFP to place material more efficiently than can be done using filament winding. Material is the number one cost driver for composite pressure vessels, so reducing material consumption would help to reduce the cost of key future fuels such as hydrogen, which relies on composite pressure vessels in many applications.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

Following the completion of my PhD, I would like to work within an overseas company as a composites design/research engineer in either the automotive or aerospace industries. By working for a company at the top of their field, such as Airbus, a Formula 1 team, or SpaceX, I hope to end up leading a high-performance team that can tackle the hardest, technical engineering problems facing our society.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

The ACM CRC is the premier composites organisation in Australia, working with most major companies and leading universities in the field. This allows me to easily connect with industry professionals. I actively use this opportunity to obtain information and get help with problems that I can’t solve on my own.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

If you are considering a PhD in this area, I would highly recommend engaging with people in industry, which is easily facilitated through the ACM CRC, and understanding what types of issues they are facing in their manufacturing operations. Targeting real problems will make your research purposeful and will allow you to translate between the research and industrial worlds with ease.

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

I am an avid mountain biker and love spending days exploring on my bike and challenging myself to develop the skills to ride difficult terrain. In 2023, I had the chance to travel to Canada and ride the Whistler Bike Park, the world’s top destination for mountain biking.

10. Anything to add?

If you love very challenging and highly independent work, I highly suggest pursuing a PhD in engineering. I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience and the flexible lifestyle that allows me to work on the cutting edge, while still taking advantage of living a student life.

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

9 questions with Chris Jenkins, ACM CRC PhD Student

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:03:22 GMT

We’re taking this opportunity to introduce each our PhDs to you – those who are playing a significant role within our program, and in the broader industry.

Here, we speak with Chris Jenkins, from one of ACM CRC’s university partners,

UNSW Sydney.

1. Under which ACM CRC Research Program does your PhD project sit?

My PhD project falls under Research Program 2 (Manufacturing Processes).

2. What is the focus of your PhD?

My PhD focuses on the mould-free fabrication of composite laminates. Mould tooling presents a time and capital barrier to rapid composite production. My research explores a technique that we’ve called ‘eccentric fibre prestress’, which aims to produce curved surfaces from an otherwise flat laminate by inducing deliberate process warpage.

3. When did you become interested in this field?

I formally started working with composites during my undergraduate degree, while designing and building Sunswift 7. Sunswift 7 is a 4-seater carbon fibre electric vehicle that we built to compete in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. I was curious well before then, however – I’ve always had a keen interest in mountain bikes, and composites are used extensively for light weighting there.

4. What made you interested in it?

As an outsider looking in, composite engineering is often viewed as a bit of “black magic”. I certainly held this view prior to working on the solar-electric car. When we began construction, it started to make more and more sense. This process of figuring out how to practically use composites was intriguing, and was the starting point for my PhD.

5. What do you hope to achieve through your PhD? What challenges are you hoping to solve?

By the end of my PhD, I’m hoping to have developed a design framework that will allow other engineers to use the eccentric prestress process that I’ve developed in their own applications. I’d like to outline which parts they can make with the materials that they have available, and describe the geometric and structural limitations too.

6. What are your long-term goals/ambitions?

I’d like to apply my research experience to the aerospace/automotive industry and develop the next generation of composite processes and components.

7. What’s the best thing about being an ACM CRC PhD student?

Being networked into the Australian composites industry right from university is a great opportunity and a highlight of the CRC.

8. What one piece of advice would you give to people thinking of undertaking a PhD in the composites manufacturing area?

Composites is not “black magic” and can be learnt. The freedom composites give over traditional engineering materials is huge, and I think that’s what makes research in this space exciting..

9. Tell us something about you that would surprise/impress people?

I’ve built my own mountain bike frame (bronze brazed chromoly steel). Hopefully there will be a composite in the near future!

Interested to know more?

Visit our Education and Training page to learn more on our HDR Program, and how it’s helping to achieve industry transformation.

Scoping a more secure future for offshore structures

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 08:05:47 GMT

A new ACM CRC-funded project is seeking to overcome certain limitations of structural health monitoring, to enable safer and more reliable offshore structures.

The offshore industry is heavily dependent on tubular joints, which are frequently situated in inaccessible locations. Consequently, inspecting these joints poses challenges and diminishes the reliability of conventional inspection methods.

This project, which is a collaboration between the CRC and its Partners FUZE and The University of Western Australia (UWA), is using various sensors to monitor the health of offshore structures over time, leading to more dependable data thus improved safety and durability.

Specifically, the team aims to develop acceptance criteria for field repairs using composite materials, and to establish protocols for in-service inspections.

They are also exploring the optimal resin systems for bonding to metallic structures, with further safety and reliability improvements in mind – particularly for the oil and gas industry, where such structures are critical.

The project’s outputs could see cost-effective and accurate methods set in place to detect damage and degradation in offshore structures, lowering maintenance costs and downtime and, therefore, potentially improving the economic viability of these structures over the long run.

“This project is a great example of how collaboration is driving innovation in the manufacturing of composites for extreme environments, and will serve diverse industry sectors from marine to mining,” said Dr Steve Gower, CEO of the ACM CRC. “There is also the potential to apply the project outputs to other industries, for example, retrofitting infrastructures such as bridges and other critical structures.”

“Things that break due to sustained environmental pressures are often a long way from a traditional factory, and repairs need to be performed anytime, anywhere,” added Jason LeCoultre, Managing Director of FUZE. “Composites can also be useful for making lighter, more versatile components for a range of industrial applications.”

The project is well underway, with A/Prof. Farhad Aslani, Academic Chief Investigator with the UWA’s School of Engineering, currently examining the structural performance of corroded tubular structural joints strengthened with fibre-reinforced polymer, using embedded structural health monitoring.

For more information on the project, please contact Prof. Ganga Prusty, ACM CRC Research Director: g.prusty@acmcrc.com .

This project is a great example of how collaboration is driving innovation in the manufacturing of composites for extreme environments, and will serve diverse industry sectors from marine to mining.

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

Composites Conference 2024

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 23:06:46 GMT

Australia's leading Composite Conference.

Industry speakers and technical presentations, displays and a tour or two! Join us for two days in early May that will be filled with stimulating presentations from composites practitioners and thought-leaders.

With a focus on ‘Acting on Vision’, attending will help you gain insight, hone skills, make connections and shape new ideas. Speakers and presentation topics are carefully curated to cover an array of industry and technology case studies. This unique conference will provide a strategic insight into a wide range of aspects associated with operating and growing a composites business and collaborating with composite companies.

Featuring presentations from brave creative souls who are on a journey to crack the commercialisation ceiling, as well as how material science and the properties of advanced composites can solve everyday challenges. Industry leaders will share their insights and perspectives on the sector across various market segments. Explore the next generation of composite practitioners, applications and the raft of programs available to assist industry and research & development.

Event Name: Composite Conference 2024

Event date: 1 - 2 May 2024

Location: Sunshine Coast, Qld

SoMAC CRC becomes ACM CRC

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 02:57:50 GMT

The Sovereign Manufacturing Automation for Composites CRC is quite a mouthful. Plus, it didn’t really capture the impressive breadth of targets this cooperative research centre has set out to achieve. Introducing the Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC. This, here, is what it’s all about.

In late 2023, SoMAC CRC rebranded to become ACM CRC, to better reflect the depth and significance this consortium will bring to Australia’s composite manufacturing industry.

With the $100 billion international composites industry undergoing a major automation transition, Australia needs to reposition its manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability to capture emergent markets. This perfectly summarises the main goal of ACM CRC.

This consortium of industry, research and government Partners aims to transition Australia’s established composite technologies capability into a world-class, highly automated, digitally enabled network of designers, manufacturers and service providers, leading transformations in:

Green Energy and EV Economies
Supply Chain Security
Industry 4.0 Transition
Workforce Transformation
Digital Production and Export
Sovereign Manufacturing

“Our 10-year program seeks to build a digital-export-ready composites industry with cost-competitive, high-quality platform capability,“ said Dr Steve Gower, the CRC’s CEO.

“We’re creating this capability via intelligent automation, technology innovation and new product demonstration, while qualifying Australia’s next generation of composites engineers.”

Key to de-risking investment in hydrogen economy and electric vehicle (EV) production industries, while simultaneously strengthening the infrastructure, space, defence, circular economy, and consumer industries, are the Four research programs : Composite Materials; Manufacturing Processes; Simulation, Performance Prediction; and Design, Integration.

The initiative will also introduce some exciting education opportunities for HDR students.

“Our consortium operates with over 30 Partners, all of whom are focused on transforming the transport, energy, advanced manufacturing, and Industry 4.0. sectors. In short, and as the new name suggests, we’re collaboratively leading the way to position Australia as a global leader in automated composites manufacturing,” concluded Steve.

Keen to know more?

Read up on ACM CRC’s research programs and proposed impact , or reach out if you’d like to be involved.

“...we’re collaboratively leading the way to position Australia as a global leader in automated composites manufacturing,"

Dr Steve Gower

CEO, ACM CRC

3 key outcomes emerge from ACM CRC’s latest Partner Meeting

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 02:25:57 GMT

Late last year, ACM CRC held its second Partner Meeting, bringing together industry, research, and government representatives to reflect on and review the future of Australia’s composites manufacturing industry.

The research centre’s rebrand from SoMAC CRC to the Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC (ACM CRC) was a major focus, with this change of identity better capturing the impressive breadth of targets the CRC has set out to achieve.

In addition, several significant insights and updates were provided, with three of the key meeting outcomes presenting as follows.

1. 9x projects worth $30m

As of October 2023, nine CRC projects had been approved, worth an accumulative total of $30 million. The projects fall across the CRC’s four research programs – Composite Materials ; Manufacturing Processes ; Simulation, Performance Prediction ; and Design, Integration – each with the ultimate aim to help Australia reposition its manufacturing and sovereign engineering capability to capture emergent markets.

Projects include:

Polymer Matrix Composite Thermal Protection Liners
Ceramic Matrix Composite Components for Hypersonic Flight
Quickstep Aero-line Future Factory Simulation
Omi Tanker Smart Composite Factory
Industrialisation of Carbon Fibre Wheel Production for the Global OEM market
Circular Design 4.0 - AI-based Quality Control, Manufacturing
Structural Health Monitoring for Tubular Joints
Advanced manufacturing of MOF-enabled carbon composite H2 tanks for heavy mobility
Next Generation Composite Flipper

2. 3x RISE Fellowships

It’s a known fact that female inequality in STEM is limiting opportunities, and that this issue has not yet been adequately addressed.

This drove the ACM CRC to develop its RISE Fellowship – an active commitment to supporting women in the consortium, and in STEM more generally. The Fellowship opportunity was launched to the CRC’s Partners late 2023, and is open to all female employees – including academic researchers and HDR candidates. Recipients are awarded an all-expenses paid trip to participate in the forthcoming Annual ACM CRC Partners Meeting.

In its first year, three Fellowships were awarded to three very deserving female students/engineers, who proudly joined us at this Partners Meeting:

Chiara Fois, Process Engineer, Rux Energy

“I am enjoying every step of this incredible STEM journey! Each day brings me new opportunities to contribute to society, nurture my curiosity and help advance technology."

Hasliza Omar, PhD Candidate, UNSW

“It's a great start if solving today's toughest challenges is your calling. It builds character in perseverance and resilience as I navigate my way through solving one of our biggest and most complex challenges: 'How will energy security and supply chains look in a decarbonised future?’”

Sara Ahmed, FUZE Solutions, and PhD Candidate, UWA

“My journey in civil engineering, from graduation to master’s degree, symbolises my commitment to innovation and sustainability. In this regard, I have chosen to elevate my educational skills and commence a PhD program at the University of Western Australia. Now, as I delve into the rehabilitation and monitoring of offshore structures, my journey is more than just a pursuit of academic excellence; it is more of a dedicated effort to contribute to a sustainable future in the field of structural engineering.“

We congratulate all recipients and other strong nominees, and look forward to launching Round 2 later this year.

3. 4x measurable goals

The CRC is striving towards four significant goals:

100x HDR students (40% female)
Projects reaching Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3-7
Composites automation
Sovereign capability development

With nine PhD students and nine projects already in motion, the CRC is already well-placed to tackle the barriers that span the current composites development lifecycle, and to start working towards its composites automation and sovereign capability development goals.

Visit our research page to learn more about the work we’re doing, and our impact page for more on our vision.

Heading towards a faster, stronger, leaner composites manufacturing market

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 03:11:28 GMT

The 11th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics ( ACAM 2024 ) will take place in Brisbane from 7–9 February this year, sporting the theme, ‘Faster, stronger, leaner – advancing applied mechanics for a resilient and sustainable future’ .

Pushing the boundaries of materials, processes, and design while striving to enhance sustainability is what ACM CRC is all about, in its quest to reposition Australia’s composites manufacturing capability with next-generation cost and technology competitiveness.

“We’re working hard to reduce import dependency, penetrate export markets, increase sustainability, shorten prototyping lifecycles and create an accelerated automated composites manufacturing capacity,” said Professor Ganga Prusty, ACM CRC’s Director of Research.

“With the composite materials market being a large and rapidly expanding sector of the global economy, sporting a forecast compound annual growth of 7.6% (2020 to 2027), Australia needs to take its place as a leader,” he continued.

Professor Prusty will be attending the conference in February to explore further ideas that may support the CRC’s mission .

“This conference closely represents what we’re trying to achieve within the CRC,“ said Professor Prusty.

“I look across our four research programs – Composite Materials ; Manufacturing Processes ; Simulation, Performance Prediction ; and Design, Integration – and straight away I see synergies between our research goals and those being discussed at this event.

I’m excited to see what innovations, methodologies, and discoveries ACAM will offer, and how potential collaboration with ACM CRC may enable the greater Australian composite materials market to become faster, stronger, and leaner.”

Catch Professor Ganga Prusty at ACAM 2024 from 7-9 February , where he’d be delighted to answer any questions you may have around the CRC’s research and projected impact , and discuss potential opportunities for collaboration.

Event Name: ACAM 2024

Event date: 7-9 February 2024

Location: Brisbane, QLD Australia

Wave energy propels Australian manufacturing as new project sets sail

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:48:27 GMT

A new R&D project between Australian Composites Manufacturing (ACM CRC), Ocius Technology and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is set to optimise the use of wave energy for propulsion, harnessing energy for underwater flippers for unmanned surface vessels (USVs).

Bluebottle-class USVs are innovative autonomous solutions developed by Ocius for continuous maritime surveillance. The technology has applications across oil and gas, security and scientific research, and is enhancing a range of maritime defence missions such as mine clearance, patrolling, environmental monitoring and search and rescue operations.

As unmanned ocean vessels, it is imperative that USVs operate efficiency in the water at all times and navigate safely in open ocean transport channels. As a fully renewable surface vessel powered by solar, wind and wave energy, the Ocius Bluebottle is currently operating well but has limitations when used in strong winds.

The wave energy used by the Bluebottle is facilitated by a fibre reinforced laminated composite rudder, or ‘flipper’, at the front of the vessel, which provides passive thrust. This ACM CRC project aims to design and manufacture the next generation composite flipper for these vessels, for optimal propulsion thus operation even in the toughest weather conditions and no matter what the state of the sea.

“The tailorable stiffness of composite materials provides a unique opportunity to achieve additional thrust from flapping and morphing structures. Our R&D project exemplifies the CRC’s vision to unite its composite industry partners with ACM’s world-class academic researchers and deliver innovation at the forefront in automated manufacturing of advanced composites”, said Professor Ganga Prusty, Director of Research at ACM CRC.

Indeed, the project will leverage an innovative automated manufacturing procedure, integrating multidisciplinary techniques including scientific computing, optimisation, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.

Robert Dane, CEO of Ocius, is enthusiastic about the possibilities of this project with the company already having a strong history in conceiving, funding and delivering difficult, innovative, high-tech, award-winning projects with remarkable outcomes.

“Ocius is excited about working with UNSW and the ACM CRC on this project”, he said. “The 'rudder flipper' came out of biomimicry and was developed by trial and error into a third method of propulsion on a Bluebottle Uncrewed Surface Vessel besides sun and wind. It also acts as a 'sea anchor' in bad weather pointing the bow into high seas which can go on for days. So the flipper needs to have properties of strength, resilience and memory and this 3-year project with ACM CRC will put scientific rigor around the design and manufacture and turn it into a real 'superpower'.”

Simulation technology development could also be applied to aero and hydrodynamic simulation of composite structures, such as surfboards, with improved efficiency of design and manufacturing guidance for robust flippers and similar products putting Australia at the forefront in smart and automated manufacturing.

“...this 3-year project with ACM CRC will put scientific rigor around the design and manufacture and turn it into a real 'superpower'."

Robert Dane

CEO, Ocius

ACAM 2024: Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 03:29:53 GMT

The 11th Australasian Congress on Applied Mechanics (ACAM 2024) is proudly hosted by the National Committee of Applied Mechanics and the organising committee. Taking place in Brisbane from 7–9 February, this event is a must-attend for professionals in engineering, academia, postgraduate studies and industry management.

'Faster, stronger, leaner – advancing applied mechanics for a resilient and sustainable future’. As we celebrate the pursuit of pushing the boundaries of materials, processes and design, we also strive to enhance sustainability. Join us to be a part of a community that is shaping the future of this important field.

By attending ACAM 2024, you’ll have the unique opportunity to showcase and discuss the latest innovations, achievements and current trends in applied mechanics. The event provides an engaging platform to network and exchange knowledge, ideas, and experiences with some of the brightest minds in the industry. With the chance to connect with professionals from across the Australasian region and beyond, ACAM 2024 provides an opportunity to nurture existing partnerships and forge new ones.

Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to gain valuable insights that will help you advance your knowledge in the field of applied mechanics. Join us in Brisbane and be a part of a resilient and sustainable future.

Event Name: ACAM 2024

Event date: 7 - 9 February 2024

Location: Brisbane, Qld

Sector: Composites International Conference 2024

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 11:39:19 GMT

Composites 2024 is an international conference that focuses on advanced technology and development of composite materials. It brings together participants from academia and industry who share an interest in Composite Materials.

It is a unique opportunity for composite specialists and newcomers alike and has long been a venue where researchers and industrialists network and share with colleagues from around the world and establish long term partnership.

The conference includes plenary talks, keynote and oral presentations as well as posters sessions, an exhibit area for industry partners and sponsors, and an entertaining social program.

The main conference topics are as follow:

Composite materials and structures and modelling

Bio-composites
Polymers and polymer composites
Novel composites
Nanocomposites
Ductile and pseudo-ductile
Sandwich composites
Hybrid and metacomposites
Self healing composites
Composite/hybrid joints
Fiber reinforced composites;
Composites Modeling/prediction
Computational methods

Composite processing and manufacturing, properties and performance

Emerging processing techniques
Flow processing of composites Consolidation processes
Additive manufacturing
Machining advanced manufacturing/automation
Forming, Repair, testing, …
Physics, chemistry and mechanics characterization of composites
Damage tolerance, Fatigue, Creep, Durability, etc
Life cycle performance: Sustainability, Recycling and Environmental impact

Composite materials Applications

Biomedical and pharmaceutical
Energy and Environment
Building and Civil Engineering
Automotive and roads transportation
Aerospace and Defence
Design furniture and home
Other composites end use areas

Composites 2024 is organized jointly to Polymers 2024 and Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics - 3Bs Materials 2024. The joint conferences will run in the beautiful city of Seville, Spain.

Event Name: Composites 2024 International

Event date: 6 - 8 March 2024

Location: Seville, Spain

Carbon Revolution and Deakin University Revolutionise Carbon Fibre Wheels Production to Meet Automotive Industry Demands

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:54:29 GMT

Carbon Revolution, a global technology company and Tier 1 OEM (original equipment manufacturer) supplier, has partnered with Deakin University’s Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM) to revolutionise the production of carbon fibre wheels .

The collaboration is part of the Sovereign Manufacturing Automation for Composites CRC (SoMAC CRC) project which aims to make Australia a leader in composite technologies with an advanced and automated network of designers, manufacturers and service providers.

Dr Steve Gower, CEO of SoMAC CRC, praises Carbon Revolution's capabilities in advanced composites manufacturing. He explains, “Carbon Revolution provides a great example of Australian capabilities in advanced composites manufacturing. SoMAC CRC is proud to support our partners Carbon Revolution and Deakin University to develop product and process technologies to support the expansion of manufacturing capabilities for Carbon Revolution’s single-piece carbon fibre wheels.”

Carbon Revolution has already established itself as the recognised leader in the production of lightweight carbon fibre wheels for the global automotive industry. The company has progressed from single prototypes to designing and manufacturing wheels at commercial scale for some of the most prestigious brands in the world. With over 70,000 Carbon Revolution wheels produced, the company has penetrated the performance and premium end of the automotive market with 18 active OEM programs for Ford, Ferrari, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover and Renault.

Jake Dingle, CEO and Managing Director of Carbon Revolution, says, “The unsprung weight savings of between 19 and 47% that our wheels provide are now delivering results with programs for six global OEMs; proving that our production capability for carbon fibre wheels is disrupting the automotive wheel market.”

Carbon Revolution is working with researchers from Deakin University’s Institute for Frontier Materials to develop new product and process technologies to support the expansion of manufacturing capabilities for single-piece carbon fibre wheels.

Dr Ashley Denmead, CTO and founder of Carbon Revolution, highlights, “Our close collaboration with research partners such as Deakin University’s Institute for Frontier Materials has made a strong contribution to our team for many years and continues to allow Carbon Revolution to innovate and improve the design and development phases of new wheel programs for our growing list of automotive customers.”

Prof Russell Varley, the project’s Chief Investigator, expresses his excitement about the collaboration. “Deakin University is excited to be working with Carbon Revolution to develop new composite wheels for the automotive industry of today and tomorrow,” he says.

The development of carbon fibre wheels is critical to the automotive industry as it helps reduce the mass of vehicles to address fuel economy limits and increase the range of electric vehicles. Carbon fibre wheels reduce weight from 30-50% compared to aluminium wheels, depending on customer geometry expectation and achieve all OEM validation specification standards.

The SoMAC CRC program will help Carbon Revolution advance its manufacturing capabilities and product performance. Dr Aaron Brighton, Technology Development Leader at Carbon Revolution, elaborates, “Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs) are a great way to bring Industry and Researchers together leveraging resources, expertise and funding to advance Australian business and Industry. SoMAC CRC is key to Carbon Revolution advancing its manufacturing capabilities and product performance.”

“The unsprung weight savings of between 19 and 47% that our wheels provide are now delivering results with programs for six global OEMs; proving that our production capability for carbon fibre wheels is disrupting the automotive wheel market."

Jake Dingle

CEO, Carbon Revolution

Omni Tanker and ACM CRC Partner to Revolutionise Composites Manufacturing in Australia

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 23:29:57 GMT

Sovereign Manufacturing Automation for Composites CRC (SoMAC CRC) is proud to announce a collaboration with the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) and Omni Tanker to spearhead a digital transformation in composites manufacturing.

Omni Tanker is set to create a "digital twin" of its pilot production plant, a move that marks a significant leap towards optimising composites manufacturing. This digital twin, working alongside physical production facilities, is poised to enhance production processes, improve efficiency and accelerate innovation to meet the surging global demand.

Omni Tanker’s CEO Daniel Rodgers, expresses enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "Omni Tanker expects the outputs of this project to deliver exceptional returns as we build our production capacity to service multiple international markets. Our focus is on achieving high efficiency and profitability through automation in our operations, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the composites industry."

This project is a testament to Omni Tanker's commitment to innovation and excellence. "The use of the digital twins and associated scenario analysis through UNSW will inform choices on physical experiments within Omni Tanker, delivering rapid gains to the Omni Tanker production efficiency," says Omni Tanker’s Chief Technical Officer, Dr Luke Djukic.

Omni Tanker recognises the significance of this project. The global demand for their tanks outpaces their current production capacity and their expansion into aerospace and energy sectors, particularly in hydrogen transport applications, further underscores the company's commitment to meet evolving market demands.

UNSW is delighted to be part of this transformative project. Dr Shiva Abdoli, Chief Investigator at UNSW explains, "UNSW is excited to start its first SoMAC CRC project with Omni Tanker. UNSW, as a founding research partner, is delighted to contribute to the SoMAC CRC vision to bring new paradigms to composites manufacturing, strengthening the Australian supply chain and opening up new export markets. With this Industry 4.0 technology, we can virtually assess alternative production strategies through simulation and validate their performance."

She further adds, "A digital twin of their production facility offers Omni Tanker a test bed for performance analyses and improvement at both operational and strategic levels. The tool will allow them to optimise production through improved process design, layout planning and targeted investment in automation, and further spearhead Omni Tanker’s export activities."

This collaboration is not just about the present but also about preparing for the future. Abdoli highlights, "As Omni Tanker production grows, we can adapt the simulations to forecast and alleviate bottlenecks before they arise."

"Omni Tanker and UNSW have a long-standing research partnership, and we are excited to come together with SoMAC CRC to continue to deliver high-value and high-impact research translation projects," further adds Rodgers.

This project marks the beginning of a digital revolution in composites manufacturing in Australia with the potential to inspire progress across the composites industry.

Prof Nicholas Fisk, UNSW's Deputy Vice Chancellor Research & Enterprise, who attended a tour at the Omni Tanker factory in Smeaton Grange, added, "This first of many collaborative R&D projects augments sovereign manufacturing by a progressive local SME scoring runs in the high-end composite export market, with state-of-the-art digital twin design. The ability to test and validate process improvements, both incremental and end-to-end, in seconds rather than years, provides a real springboard to Industry 4.0 advanced manufacturing here in Sydney."

The Head of the School of Mechanical Engineering at UNSW, Prof Chun Wang, was also present at the tour and signing ceremony, further adds, “Since 2014, our school has forged an enduring partnership with Omni Tanker. Together we have created advanced materials, innovative designs and computational capabilities that have resulted in new products. Building on these successes, this new project will undoubtedly further enhance Omni Tanker’s world-leading position and generate more societal benefits for Australia”.

Steve Gower, CEO of SoMAC CRC, says, "This collaboration between Omni Tanker and UNSW is a milestone project in the composites industry. Together, they are poised to elevate Australia's cross-sectoral manufacturing capabilities, especially in Transport and Energy, as Omni Tanker's international exports expand, notably in the US and Europe."

“The use of the digital twins and associated scenario analysis through UNSW will inform choices on physical experiments within Omni Tanker, delivering rapid gains to the Omni Tanker production efficiency."

Dr Luke Djukic

Chief Technical Officer at Omni Tanker

Quickstep signs drone product development agreement

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 05:42:24 GMT

Quickstep Holdings Ltd (ASX: QHL) (Quickstep or the Company) is delighted to announce that it has signed an exciting engineering collaboration with the Sovereign Manufacturing Automation for Composites CRC (SoMAC CRC) and Deakin University’s Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (ISRII) to help solve one of the key issues in large scale composites production, that being the relatively high cost of production. The initial 12-month program is valued at $1 million, funded 50-50, and forms part of an anticipated multi-year development program.

Carbon fibre and other composites are increasingly becoming the ‘go to’ solution in advanced industries such as aerospace and clean technology.

One of Quickstep's strategic objectives is to make the production system more cost effective to deliver the product trifecta of ‘better, faster, cheaper’ and enable a wider application of composite technologies.

Quickstep’s proven success in research and development has allowed rapid progress in establishing the company as a leading Tier 1 manufacturer in the commercial drone market, which is in part due to the existing advanced capabilities of the business.

The collaboration we are announcing today will assist in further developing these capabilities and help to make our Australian manufacturing operations even more competitive.

Aeroline is focused on high-rate low-cost production of complex aerostructures including complete airframes. This builds on the recent automation program developed by Quickstep for the production of F-35 flares for the US Department of Defence and will support future automation and productivity at the company’s Bankstown site as well as the existing Aeroline phase one setup used in drone programs in the Geelong facility.

Luke Preston, Quickstep’s Head of Technology and Partnerships said, “This collaboration brings together some of the best advanced manufacturing minds in Australia to make significant steps forward in simulation tools to deliver high quality solutions. It’s fantastic that we have all the research and commercialisation teams to design and manufacture innovative Advanced Air Mobility solutions all right here on the Deakin Campus”.

The collaboration announced today with Deakin University, through the combination of 3D photorealistic digital design, complex AI driven simulations and new robotic design principles, will mature new manufacturing technologies for cutting-edge airframe design and more cost-effective manufacturing system performance.

Work will be led from Quickstep’s Geelong facilities which are located on Deakin’s Waurn Ponds Campus continuing the long-standing collaboration.

“This collaboration brings together some of the best advanced manufacturing minds in Australia to make significant steps forward in simulation tools to deliver high quality solutions."

Luke Preston

Head of Technology at Quickstep

JEC World: The Leading International Composites Show 2024

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 14:56:38 GMT

JEC World gathers the whole value chain of the composite materials industry in Paris (France) every year and is “the place to be” for composites professionals from all over the world.

The event brings together not only all major global companies, but also innovative startups in the field of composites and advanced materials, experts, academics, scientists, and R&D leaders.

JEC World is also the “festival of composites”, offering a unique showcase of what composites can offer to various application sectors, from aerospace to marine, from construction to automotive, and an unlimited source of inspiration for participants from these industries.

Event Name: JEC World 2024

Event date: March 5-7, 2024

Location: ZAC Paris Nord 2, 93420 Villepinte, France

Hypersonix and ACM CRC aim for high temperature materials

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 14:56:38 GMT

Hypersonic vehicle developer Hypersonix Launch Systems and the Sovereign Manufacturing Automation for Composites Cooperative Research Centre (SoMAC CRC) have joined forces to tackle one of the big issues facing hypersonic flight – high temperature material integration.

Hypersonic vehicles that travel at least five times faster than the speed of sound require materials that can withstand extremely high temperatures caused by aerodynamic heating.

In partnership with The University of Queensland (UQ), the partners plan to develop the next generation of high temperature ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) tailored to hypersonic flight applications.

The Head of Research at Hypersonix Michael Smart said: “Our DART AE vehicles have the most demanding thermal-structural requirements.

“There is no better vehicle to put the project’s innovative outputs to the test.

“Our Engineering team are excited to be collaborating with SoMAC CRC and UQ to deliver outcomes that could see Hypersonix competing internationally, and Australia at the forefront of international space technologies.”

In March Hypersonix won its first major contract when it was selected from a field of 63 respondents by the United States’ Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to provide aircraft for hypersonic tests.

CMCs are a rare class of material in that they are extremely lightweight and have exceptional heat resistance – typically competing attributes.

UQ will assist with manufacturing process development, characterisation, and design, to help identify appropriate and cost-effective CMC materials.

The resultant materials will then be integrated into a Hypersonix DART AE vehicle (pictured) for flight testing.

Co-Director for the Centre for Advanced Materials Processing and Manufacturing (AMPAM) at UQ Dr Michael Heitzmann said his group had pioneered CMC manufacture in Australia.

Dr Heitzmann said: “We’ve and are thrilled to be working with this collaborative team on a project that hopefully sees our materials being flown.”

SOMAC CRC CEO Steve Gower said the project would also be exploring novel net shape and short cycle time manufacturing methods for CMCs.

Net shape manufacturing is a process that creates an object that is complete without needing finish machining or any other finishing actions.

“Our Engineering team are excited to be collaborating with ACM CRC and UQ to deliver outcomes that could see Hypersonix competing internationally, and Australia at the forefront of international space technologies".

Michael Smart

Head of Research at Hypersonix

ACM CRC launches with Gilmour into spacecraft composites

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:56:38 GMT

The new Sovereign Manufacturing Automation for Composites CRC (SoMAC CRC) has launched its first-ever research collaboration which could lead to the development of a new cost-effective solution for protecting space launch vehicles and spacecraft against extreme heat and pressure.

Space vehicles can experience temperatures exceeding 3,000°C during launch and atmospheric re-entry. A common solution is to use carbon phenolic composites – a substance made of layers of carbon fibre fabric held together by a special plastic glue.

Being undertaken in partnership with Gilmour Space Technologies and The University of Queensland (UQ), SoMAC CRC’s inaugural project will see the development of cost-efficient, sovereign high-temperature materials using polymer-based ablative materials.

UQ has been pioneering high temperature ceramic and polymer matrix composite applications in Australia for some time.

Co-Director for the Centre for Advanced Materials Processing and Manufacturing (AMPAM) at UQ Dr Michael Heitzmann said: “The Australian space technologies sector is in growth phase, with Gilmour Space leading the way in launch vehicles

“Partnering with Gilmour Space and SoMAC CRC on this project is an exciting next step for us – and for the manufacturing industry – as we work together to make space technology more accessible and cost-competitive.”

Gilmour has been readying its Eris rocket for its maiden launch – Australia’s first orbital rocket system.

Gilmour Space’s Program Manager for Launch Vehicles David Doyle said high temperature composite materials for Eris launch vehicles would help provide reliable and cost-effective access to space.

Dr Steve Gower, SoMAC CRC CEO said: “SoMAC CRC is open for business, and this inaugural project is exemplary as an industry and research collaboration.

“Working together with partners Gilmour Space and UQ, we are seeking to resolve practical industry challenges, while simultaneously building workforce capability and capacity through Higher Degree by Resea rch (HDR) training and industry placements.

“We are excited to have lift-off, and to start deploying our main mission – to position Australia as a future leader in composites technologies.”