A group of New Zealand organizations has won funding for a four-year research program into advanced composite structures. The research program aims to expand the knowledge base and expertise related to innovative composite structures, and in particular their manufacture and performance. This will be achieved by developing analysis, design, manufacturing and characterization methods for advanced composite materials and structures. The research objectives are focused on three key technical areas: Advanced failure prediction for stress concentrations; novel materials and processes; and performance of complex sandwich structures.

The research will be managed and implemented by The Centre for Advanced Composite Materials at The University of Auckland, Industrial Research Ltd. and industry partners High Modulus, ANZES Design Engineering and the Defence Technology Agency. Each industry partner is contributing to the program, but the primary funder is the New Zealand government's Foundation for Research, Science and Technology's Research for Industry scheme, which is providing nearly $3 million (NZD) over the next four years. The research will focus on three market sectors, which relate to the specialties of the industry partners: marine, aircraft interiors and defence.