The Institute of Polymers and Composites of the Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH) researches the mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of fiber reinforced composites (FRP) in order to make the materials and products as durable as possible.

In the field of worldwide research, the Institute plays a leading role in additional functions of these FKV structural materials, such as structural health monitoring by means of strain-sensitive electrical conductivity of the modified polymer matrix.

The property improvements are realized by means of optimized fiber arrangement and nanoparticles, such as carbon nanotubes (CNT) or graphene, which are introduced into the matrix polymer in targeted distribution.

Our cross-scale approach includes material development, manufacturing and processing processes as well as mechanical and non-destructive testing for damage development and modelling of life prediction. Methods for online inspection (SHM) are developed, differentiating between the influence of manufacturing defects (e.g. pores) and operational defects (e.g. impact damage) on the service life.

• Lifetime of fiber polymer composites for aviation, wind power, mobility and life scienc
• Cross-scale fundamental understanding of degradation caused by mechanical stress and environmental influences
• Material development, processing, testing and modelling
• Carbon-based nanomaterials for tailored property improvement, sensors and energy storage in 2D and 3D configuration