This approach entails great challenges as materials and components used in aviation must be able to withstand extreme loads while being as light as possible. So-called organo sheets have increasingly been used in the past. These are fiber composites that can be produced quickly and easily and have excellent mechanical properties. Currently they are still made from fossil raw materials, which opens up the potential for replacement by renewable resources.
Since the beginning of 2018, a large project team including partners from science and industry has been researching the production of bio-based organic sheets for the visible parts in aircraft interiors. The materials used are biodegradable and vegetable oil-based polymers in the form of films, which incorporate flame retardant and natural flax fibers as a matrix.
Besides base material development, the project deals with designing the composite assemblies and setting up efficient manufacturing and molding processes. Since these sheets are intended for elements in the aircraft interior that can be seen and touched, the feel and look must also be optimal. The sheets are therefore equipped with a specially developed bio-based and fire-retardant decorative layer including real wood veneer.