Bcomp, specialising in renewable fiber composites has signed a 2-year contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) to participate in the ESA Clean Space initiative. The program aims to reduce the environmental impact of space exploration by producing less space debris and removing that which is in orbit.
As part of the ESA Clean Space program, two of Bcomp’s natural-fiber materials, AmpliTex technical fabrics and PowerRibs reinforcements, will be tested under conditions comparable to those in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Tests will include resistance to extreme temperatures (from -150 to +150°C) and the UV radiations found in the earth’s orbit. Other tests, conducted in plasma tunnels, will determine if the materials will completely burn up in the atmosphere once the mission is over. In time, Bcomp’s natural materials could be used for building satellites with a decreased eco footprint.
In addition to the environmental aspect, Bcomp's fibers are light and have high vibration damping, essential characteristics for a space launch.
The Fribourg based startup, Bcomp, develops and commercialises high-performance semi-finished products made from natural fibre composites. The company replaces aluminium, carbon- or glass fibre composites and make structures more efficient in terms of weight, rigidity, shock absorption, and damping. Until now. Due to their sustainable nature, Bcomp’s materials have been applicable in the Sports and Leisure industry (skis, snowboards, surfboards etc.) as well as in the mobility sector particularly, motorsports, automotive interior- and aerospace sector. With the ESA partnership therefore, Bcomp could win yet another client from Space.
(ran)
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