60 seconds on …the composites strategy

What are composites and how are they used?

Composites are materials that are made from at least two materials that together have properties that are different from those of the materials on their own. They are stronger, stiffer, more lightweight, and more corrosion and fatigue resistant than other commonly used materials. Uses include aerospace, wind turbines, cars, marine and construction.
 
Why are they important to UK industry?

Composites are a growth opportunity for British industry. The global use of composite materials across sectors is expected to increase significantly and it’s important to make sure UK manufacturers can take advantage of this. For example, the UK is the single largest market for offshore wind globally and demand for composites will increase as turbine blades become larger, and require stiffer yet more lightweight materials.

But why do we need a strategy – why does Government need to intervene?

The industry faces several challenges that can be addressed if Government and industry work together. These include the need to develop the industry in a more cohesive way and a shortage of skills in the sector. As well as further action in sectors like aerospace that are currently using composites, manufacturers that do not currently use composites can also be encouraged to exploit the opportunities. Additionally, further work needs to take place on the sustainability of composite materials and their recycling. The composites strategy is part of a range of support for advanced manufacturing industries as part of our active industrial strategy, New Industry, New Jobs.

How will the Composite Strategy address these challenges?

The Strategy will strengthen leadership in composites by establishing a Composites Leadership Forum, and involve key composite companies and industry stakeholders.
Through UKTI, BIS and the Regional Development Agencies, it will raise awareness of the benefits that composites can bring and will plug the skills gap through a partnership between two Sector Skills Councils. Other initiatives include building capacity through a new National Composite Centre with £16 million of Government funding to develop ways composite structures can be produced cost effectively and quickly. The strategy will also establish a consortium of composite companies and industry stakeholders to prioritise work on sustainability issues and composite recycling.

Where can I find out more?

You can find out more information, including reading the press release and viewing a video, by clicking here.
You can also contact Mark Oakes in the Manufacturing and Materials Unit on 020 7215 6512.