TECNALIA : Automotive and Hydrogen Use Cases
As a key technical partner in the project, TECNALIA is taking the lead in three major work packages (WPs), focusing on the development of innovative bio-based composites and advanced manufacturing processes.
🧪 Developing Sustainable Composite Materials
TECNALIA is currently working on a novel bio-composite made from bio-caprolactam reinforced with natural fibers. The material’s performance depends heavily on the compatibility between its components. Once validated, this sustainable composite will be used in automotive use case UC3.3 by COMPOSITEK, aimed at improving vehicle components with eco-friendly materials.
⚙️ Advanced Processing Techniques
To support the same automotive use case (UC3.3), TECNALIA is developing a thermoplastic RTM (Resin Transfer Molding) process to manufacture APA6 composites (anionic polyamide 6) reinforced with natural fibers. A key challenge is achieving proper infiltration of bio-caprolactam into the fibers, which is essential for high-quality composite formation.
In parallel, TECNALIA is also working on two tape winding processes for hydrogen tank reinforcement in use cases 5 and 6:
One using natural fibers
The other using bio-based carbon fibers
These developments will ensure structural integrity and sustainability in next-generation storage solutions. Fine-tuning winding parameters will be crucial to achieving optimal mechanical properties.
🛠️ Prototype Manufacturing and Testing
In collaboration with COMPOSITEK, TECNALIA will manufacture a scale prototype of the battery base plate (UC3.3). Key performance indicators will include mechanical strength and thermal stability.
For use cases 5 and 6, TECNALIA will join forces with Hydrosolid and IRIS to produce external composite reinforcements for hydrogen tank liners, applying the tape winding methods developed earlier.
📅 Project Update – Current Progress
During this initial phase, TECNALIA has begun material collection and compatibility testing. Looking ahead:
Efforts are underway to minimize moisture in natural fibers, ensuring better polymerization of APA6 in UC3.3.
Simultaneously, tape-based material scouting is ongoing to meet the processing requirements of the hydrogen tank use cases.