Composites Weekly

On this episode, ACMA consultant Andrew Pokelwaldt joins me to discuss technologies that are driving Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0 is often referred to as the fourth industrial revolution and it represents a seismic shift in the way manufacturing and production processes are managed. With the advent of smart factories, the integration of cyber-physical systems, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and artificial intelligence, we are witnessing unprecedented levels of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies. We’ll also be featuring a previous interview with Brian Fitzgerald of Augury discussing how A.I. is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry with its ability to predict machine and equipment failure, enhancing efficiency and reducing downtime costs.

On this episode, Xuan Song, PhD joins me to discuss his research in additive manufacturing. Dr. Song is an Associate Professor and James A. Chisman Faculty Fellow in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at the University of Iowa. His research focuses on studying how material forming processes found in nature can be leveraged to enable sustainable, ultra-low-temperature additive manufacturing (AM) of novel ceramics and composites. He is a recipient of multiple awards including the NSF CAREER award in 2023, the AFOSR Young Investigator award in 2024, the SME Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer award in 2022, and the College of Engineering Early Career Faculty Excellence award at UIowa in 2023. He received his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Wuhan University, master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Zhejiang University, and PhD degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Southern California. https://am.lab.uiowa.edu/personnel/xuan-song.

On this episode Jesse Henry, CEO of Heartland joins us to share some recent news. Chemovator, the business incubator of BASF, has successfully finalized an investment in their company. Heartland is a material science company that provides manufacturers with a sustainable source of additives like fillers, reinforcements, & mineral extenders to enhance products they already make. They work with local farmers to produce natural fiber materials, enabling manufacturers to create more sustainable products. With this investment funding, Heartland becomes Chemovator’s first portfolio company in North America. Jesse will be sharing an update on Heartland, and what this investment means for their company moving forward.

On this episode, Tom Barnes joins me to discuss how their company is redefining the way the world views pickleball. Selkirk Sport was founded in 2014 and is the leading manufacturer of pickleball paddles and equipment. To help drive innovation, Selkirk Sport created Selkirk Labs, a first-of-its-kind program, that invites players to be part of the innovation process. Members of Selkirk Labs get first access to test paddle prototypes. Using their feedback and A.I. programming, their engineers tweak the prototypes to better suit players' needs before adding the paddles to their main line, which is made entirely in the U.S. Tom is a co-owner and the director of research and development for Selkirk Sport. The company was founded while Tom was serving in the Marine Corps and after transitioning into the USMC Reserves, Tom was excited to join his brothers. Now, Tom infuses his passion for technology and advanced manufacturing into developing new materials, equipment and manufacturing approaches for pickleball. Tom is dedicated to developing a world-class R&D ecosystem,coupled with a lean manufacturing approach to elevate Selkirk's innovation and production standards. You can learn more about their company by visiting https://www.selkirk.com.

On this episode, John Schweitzer and Kyle Jordan of the ACMA join me to discuss a couple of topics. John will be discussing the ACMA’s Composites Sustainability Conference coming up June 4-6 in Denver, CO. You can learn more about this event by visiting https://acma-org.my.site.com/csft24. Kyle Jordan will be giving an update on the CCT Instructor Course that took place earlier this month in Kansas City, and explain what new instructors can do with the designation.

On this episode, Markus Buehler, McAfee Professor of Engineering at MIT joins me to discuss how they are using machine learning to create stronger materials. For engineers developing new materials, there are billions of different possibilities to sort through. Lab tests & detailed computer simulations to determine their exact properties can take hours, and even days for each variation. Now, a new artificial intelligence-based approach developed at MIT could reduce that to a matter of milliseconds. Markus discusses their new course on Predictive Multiscale Materials Design. In this course, you will enhance your ability to leverage materials design, machine learning, and additive manufacturing to create better materials. You can register at: https://professional.mit.edu/course-catalog/predictive-multiscale-materials-design

On this episode, Mark Scott and Jake Rowen of Resodyn join me to discuss their RAM acoustic mixing technology. They are a global leader in mixing and processing solutions. Mixing is a key processing step in nearly every industry from lubricants to ceramics. Traditionally, mixing has been accomplished using motor-driven impellers, blades and other engineered devices that rotate or agitate the ingredients. These methods, however, present several challenges including degradation of particles during mixing, non-uniform and inconsistent mix quality, and extended mixing times. Fortunately, a new and innovative technology solves many of the problems that plague traditional mixers. RAM combines the efficient power generation of resonance and the effects of sound energy to facilitate mixing – without the use of mechanical means within a mixing vessel. Since 1994, Resodyn Corporation has built a legacy of facing down tough global problems with disciplined science and engineering, spanning numerous fields of study. Their innovative process and product design approach have turned many of those discoveries into commercial product successes. You can learn more about their technology by visiting https://resodynmixers.com.

This week Sebastian Pohlmann of UP Catalyst joins the podcast to discuss the world's first scalable technology for utilizing industrial CO₂ emissions. Their Carbon Nanotubes are directly produced from CO₂ emissions via molten-salt carbon capture and electrochemical transformation. Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) can enhance the mechanical properties of composite materials - improving the tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and impact resistance. You can learn more about UP Catalyst by visiting https://upcatalyst.com.

On this episode, Blair Robbins joins me on the show to discuss the closure of the Port of Baltimore, and how it might impact supply chains for our industry. Blair is a partner in the Transportation and Logistics Group at EisnerAmper, and has nearly 30 years of experience helping companies cope with supply chain issues, and challenges in inventory management due to disruptions from the pandemic to infrastructure damage and natural, disasters, labor shortages, and terrorism. You can learn more by visiting https://www.eisneramper.com/transportation-and-logistics.

On this episode, Paul Gloyer, the president of GTL, (Gloyer-Taylor Laboratories, Inc.) joins me to discuss recent news involving validation test results from their LH2 Liquid Hydrogen Composite Dewar-Tanks for Aviation Applications. GTL is an aerospace engineering research and development company headquartered in Tullahoma, TN with a second office in California. They specialize in providing transformational technologies to the aerospace and defense industry. They’ve won numerous development contracts with NASA, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, U.S. Navy, and others. Paul has 25 years of experience delivering technical solutions to solve the aerospace industry's most challenging problems. He has led efforts to develop a wide variety of aerospace systems including the PA-X suborbital rocket, the SPORT orbit transfer vehicle, and the Encounter solar-sail craft. You can learn more about GTL by visiting https://www.gtlcompany.com.

On this episode, Florence Moreau of TeXtreme joins me to discuss their new TeXtreme 360°. It belongs to a new class of composite materials called tape-based Discontinuous Fiber Composites (DFCs), combining in-plane isotropy, high strength and stiffness, and enhanced manufacturability. This new class of composite materials is an alternative to traditional metal alloys and continuous fiber composites, unlocking new possibilities across a wide range of applications. Textreme has established itself as the market leader in spread tow thin-ply carbon reinforcements. Introduced to the market in 2005, it was quickly recognized in high-performance sports applications where customers valued its low weight and high performance. You can learn more about the TeXtreme 360° by visiting https://www.textreme.com/product/45/360.

On this episode, Andrew Pokelwaldt joins me as we discuss A.I. and technology advances in the manufacturing sector. The global marketplace is changing at an unprecedented pace, and technology is poised to play a significant role in supporting manufacturers to take on the challenges they may face in 2024 and beyond. Andrew Pokelwaldt is a regular guest of the show. He's a manufacturing consultant, with a focus on training, and workforce development. He's an industry leader, experienced in the composites fabrication and manufacturing process, and a military veteran.

On this episode Thomas Lepretre, joins me again on the show to highlight JEC World 2024 coming up in less than two weeks. This huge event brings together not only all major global companies but also innovative startups in the field of composites and advanced materials. Thomas will be highlighting what attendees can expect on the show floor during the week of March 5-7, as well as some areas of focus at this year's event.

This week, Alex Blum, CEO of Applied Bioplastics joins me on the podcast to discuss bio based thermoplastic composites. Applied Bioplastics has developed a unique technology that permanently bonds natural cellulose fibers and polymer to produce durable plastic for manufacturers. It is the first alternative to be cost-competitive with commodity feedstocks, and requires no changes to standard injection molding equipment. In addition, it utilizes the most available bio-polymer on the planet - cellulose. About 1.5 trillion tons of cellulose is produced annually.

On this episode Dan Neumann joins us again to talk about the Composites 2024 Fly-In taking place next week (Feb 26-28) in Washington DC. This event will provide a unique setting to meet with members of Congress and agency leadership to educate them on the valuable capabilities of composite materials. You can learn more by visiting https://acma-org.my.site.com/flyin2024.

On this episode, Elizabeth Chabe discusses her latest bestselling book The Giant’s Ladder: The Science Professional’s Blueprint for Marketing Success. Her new book is a critical resource for scientists and technology professionals seeking effective marketing strategies to launch their innovations commercially. This book is a culmination of Chabe’s extensive experience in science marketing, offering a practical guide for the scientist-turned-entrepreneur. The book addresses the gap between scientific innovation and commercial success, providing actionable strategies to navigate the unique challenges of marketing in science and technology sectors. As the CEO of High Touch Group, Elizabeth has elevated clients in biotech, diagnostics, aerospace, advanced materials, and advanced manufacturing to global prominence. Her work has been featured in major publications like The New York Times, Popular Science, and Fast Company. Elizabeth’s expertise offers a powerful blend of tactical skill and market foresight, and her influence is instrumental in shaping scientific product marketing. You can learn more about Elizabeth, by visiting https://elizabethchabe.com.

On this week's episode, John Kehoe of Boaz Partners joins me again to discuss the work they are doing for companies in the composites and advanced materials industry. Boaz Partners is a premier recruiting agency that specializes in connecting exceptional talent with leading companies in cutting-edge industries like advanced materials and composites. They understand the unique skills and experiences required in these dynamic industries. With their extensive network and deep understanding of the market, they’re committed to finding the perfect match for both candidates and companies. You can learn more by visiting them at BoazPartners.com/advancedmaterials.

This week I welcome Kerry Drake, PhD to the podcast. Kerry is the Technology Manager for Greene Tweed, a leading global manufacturer of high-performance thermoplastics, composites, seals, and engineered components. Combining 160 years of technical expertise and commercial knowledge in a variety of markets, Greene Tweed collaborates with customers to develop engineered solutions that meet challenging performance requirements of the aerospace/defense, energy, semiconductor, industrial, life sciences, and chemical processing industries. You can learn more by visiting http://www.gtweed.com. Kerry is an inventor on multiple granted patents in polymers, coatings, and elastomeric products, and has presented at several international conferences in Polymer chemistry and materials science. His specialties include expertise in ultra-performance polymers and materials including, high-performance thermosets, elastomer chemistry and product development, and organic and inorganic coatings. He has led the development of multiple new products from concept through synthesis, pilot scale production, and commercial launch.

On this episode, Kyle Jordan and Peter Hedger of the ACMA join me for a discussion on workforce development. Kyle is the director of certifications with the ACMA and Peter is Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Membership. We'll be talking about a recent workforce development research survey that the ACMA completed back in October, and some of the data from it. The results were clear - the industry wants and needs more training. As we share some of the feedback from companies, we'll also discuss just how CCT training & certification can help improve employee retention. For more info on the ACMA's CCT certification programs, visit https://acmanet.org.

This week, Tyler Alvarado, CEO of Continuous Composites joins me on the show. This company is on a journey to transform manufacturing. Continuous Composites began with a realization that composites manufacturing was a problem waiting to be solved. Their vision is to break the mold of additive manufacturing and advance new platforms and processes using composite materials. They're developing solutions directly with industry leaders to ensure efficient and effective market entry upon CF3D® commercialization. CF3D® is comprised of hardware, materials, software, and configurable motion platforms to harness the power of composites without the constraints of traditional manufacturing. You can learn more by visitng https://www.continuouscomposites.com. You can also follow their LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/continuous-composites. Also, Continuous Composites is hosting a technology tour in Huntsville, AL Tuesday, February 6 8:30am - 2pm CST. You can learn from industry experts about the features, benefits, and applications of Continuous Composites' paradigm shifting technology. You can learn more by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/continuous-composites-technology-tour-huntsville-alabama-tickets-761379174607.