Victoria-based composites manufacturer Aluula Composites is working with the University of British Columbia in Canada on the development of recycling processes for its high-performance ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) off-cuts and end-of-life products.

Traditionally composite materials are made by gluing together different core layers and outer films to create fabrics for use in a wide range of product applications. Using its patented fusion process, Aluula has developed a unique way to fuse the fibres and technical films together without the use of glues. This fusion process not only creates extremely light, strong and durable fabrics, but materials that are recycle ready.

An initial project with the Composites Research Network at UBC Vancouver established the ability to compress Aluula material off-cuts and end-of-life products into uniform, lightweight and ultra-durable panels. What makes these panels unique, is that throughout the recycling process, the specialised UHMWPE fibres of the original Aluula materials are kept intact. This results in extraordinary fibre reinforced composite panels that are ten times stronger than those moulded from virgin UHMWPE. The panels are suitable for many applications where strength, weight, abrasion resistance and low friction are desirable – from backpack panels to low friction wear plates.

“Working with UBC students on applications for these ultra-strong and ultra-durable products is proving to be invaluable as we refine our processes to ensure the recyclability of Aluula materials,” said the company’s composites material scientist Samuel White.

Together with UBC Manufacturing Engineering (MANU) students, Aluula is developing and refining applications for these panels that not only exploit the inherent light and strong material properties, but result in an end product that can be recycled again and again – significantly lengthening the lifespan of the materials.

“Aluula has proven that sustainability and astounding performance can coexist without compromise and we look forward to leading the composite industry towards a more sustainable future,” added Aluula COO John Zimmerman.

www.aluula.com