BURA Collection: Brunel Composites Centre (BCC) sits between the knowledge base and industry, supporting partners in industry by transfering academic research in novel composites processing and joining technologies into industrial application.

Rate Dependent Electromechancal Characterization And Modeling Of Graphene Based Fiber Reinforced Polymer Laminates

2022-06-26T00:00:00Z

Title: Rate Dependent Electromechancal Characterization And Modeling Of Graphene Based Fiber Reinforced Polymer Laminates Authors: Ud Din, I; Medhin, Y; Aslam, N; Salman, M; Bathusha, S; Umer, R; Khan, KA Abstract: Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite laminates are used in numerous structures that require high strength-to-weight ratio. The health status of these laminates is traditionally monitored using point strain gauge arrays, fiber optics etc. installed at critical locations. In this work, a composite laminate capable of sensing its own health has been developed using embedded fabric sensor. In this study, a manufacturing protocol is developed for in-situ reduction of graphene oxide (GO) coated fabric into rGO coated fabric. A vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process was used to fabricate the composite laminates with embedded rGO coated fabric sensors. The piezoresistivity of the composite laminate was measured both before and during fabrication. The in-plane tension tests were carried out at three different loading rates (0.2, 2, 20 mm/min) to determine the rate-dependent piezoresistive response of composite laminates. We recorded both the piezoresistivity and load-displacement data simultaneously to obtain the electromechanical response of the fabricated samples.

3D‐Printed Arch‐Structured Tribolayer with Conducting Polymer Coating for Enhanced Triboelectric Energy Harvesting

2026-03-11T00:00:00Z

Title: 3D‐Printed Arch‐Structured Tribolayer with Conducting Polymer Coating for Enhanced Triboelectric Energy Harvesting Authors: Alhosani, ME; Fatma, B; Irshaid, RB; Katsikari, K; Aljaberi, M; Din, IU; Kang, S; Jeon, YP; Khan, KA; Pitsalidis, C Abstract: Three‐dimensional printed (3DP) triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) provide a versatile approach for complex and customizable microstructures tailored for efficient energy harvesting and sensing. Here, we demonstrate the fabrication of flexible microstructured TENGs produced via stereolithography 3D printing and subsequently coated with a conducting polymer, PEDOT:PSS (P:P). Three geometries are investigated: pillars, pyramids, and arches, with the arch configuration emerging as a new design combining enhanced mechanical adaptability and improved triboelectric performance. The arch‐shaped TENGs exhibit superior flexibility, structural stability, and a high active surface area, which collectively facilitate efficient energy conversion under repetitive deformation. Furthermore, the incorporation of P:P coating substantially enhances performance, resulting in a more than twentyfold increase in voltage output compared to uncoated counterparts. Among the 3DP structures, the arch geometry consistently delivers better performance, confirming the geometry‐driven performance of 3DP‐TENGs. The optimized arch configuration is found to yield a peak voltage output of ∼101 V, corresponding to a maximum power output of ∼193.6 mW/m 2 . By exploiting the spring‐like behavior of the arch‐shaped tribolayer, a “zero‐gap” TENG architecture is presented, offering a compact and adaptable energy‐harvesting platform as well as pressure‐sensing capabilities. Finally, a wireless pressure‐sensing platform configured as a vehicle parking counter is demonstrated, showcasing the potential of this development for integration into smart infrastructure and environmental monitoring systems. Description: Data Availability Statement: The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.; Supporting Information is available online at: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admi.202500963#support-information-section .

Graphene nanoparticles as data generating digital materials in industry 4.0

2023-03-27T00:00:00Z

Title: Graphene nanoparticles as data generating digital materials in industry 4.0 Authors: Ali, MA; Irfan, MS; Khan, T; Khalid, MY; Umer, R Abstract: One of the potential applications of 2D materials is to enhance multi-functionality of structures and components used in aerospace, automotive, civil and defense industries. These multi-functional attributes include sensing, energy storage, EMI shielding and property enhancement. In this article, we have explored the potential of using graphene and its variants as data generating sensory elements in Industry 4.0. We have presented a complete roadmap to cover three emerging technologies i.e. advance materials, artificial intelligence and block-chain technology. The utility of 2D materials such as graphene nanoparticles is yet to be explored as an interface for digitalization of a modern smart factory i.e. “factory-of-the-future”. In this article, we have explored how 2D material enhanced composites can act as an interface between physical and cyber spaces. An overview of employing graphene-based smart embedded sensors at various stages of composites manufacturing processes and their application in real-time structural health monitoring is presented. The technical challenges associated with interfacing graphene-based sensing networks with digital space are discussed. Additionally, an overview of the integration of associated tools such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and block-chain technology with graphene-based devices and structures is also presented. Description: Data availability: All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article.

Unlocking circular economy value through trusted and decentralised data sharing

2025-07-24T00:00:00Z

Title: Unlocking circular economy value through trusted and decentralised data sharing Authors: Bahrami, F; Maurer, F Abstract: Discover how the JIDEP project evidences unlocking circular economy value through trusted and decentralised industrial data sharing. Europe’s transition to a greener and more digital economy depends on smarter, more efficient use of industrial data. The JIDEP project, completed in May 2025, showed how secure, decentralised data sharing can drive circular innovation across sectors like wind energy, automotive, and electronics. With the Joint Industrial Data Exchange Pipeline (JIDEP) project now concluded, it leaves behind a powerful vision: enabling circular industry by making high-value material and product data accessible, secure, and shareable across sectors. Funded by Horizon Europe, the three-year initiative brought together 13 partners across seven countries to build and demonstrate a platform where manufacturers, recyclers, and technology providers could collaborate through trusted, decentralised data exchange.