A delegation from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Mitsubishi, Kawasaki, Ishikawa Heavy Industries, and universities including Tokyo, Kyoto and Tsukuba will attend a workshop today [Monday, August 3] organised by the University of Bristol’s Advanced Composites Centre for Innovation and Science (ACCIS) in conjunction with the Japan Society for Composite Materials.  The event is being supported by the South West RDA (Regional Development Agency) and JAXA.

The Japanese visitors will learn how leading research into composites taking place at the universities of Bristol, Bath and Plymouth is putting the region at the forefront of exploration into high-tech materials, and will also present recent developments in the field in Japan.

Composites are lightweight materials being developed for use in manufacturing aircraft wings, more environmentally friendly engines, as well as within the renewable energy industry.

The workshop will include presentations on subjects ranging from “Nanocomposite coatings for aerospace composite components” to “defects in resin transfer moulded components: origins and effects”.  The workshop will include a poster session showcasing both ACCIS and external posters, and there will be plenty of opportunity for discussion and networking during both the lunchtime and late afternoon sessions.

Michael Wisnom, Director of ACCIS and Professor of Aerospace Structures in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, said: “We are delighted to be hosting today’s workshop and look forward to the University continuing to be at the forefront of global developments in advanced composites. 

“The University signed a memorandum of understanding with JAXA last month and this is the first meeting of both parties since then.  The collaboration aims to build on our knowledge of advanced composites, set-up a staff and student exchange programme and break new ground in the development and application of advanced composites.”