Composites are used in a wide range of industries–but in several business sectors, the use of composites has untapped potential. The Composites Alliance of RI has identified the following sectors as growth areas where the Ocean State’s expertise can be applied to create new business opportunities for composites companies. Contact us if you’d like more information or want to become involved in our efforts to expand the use of composites in these sectors.
Industry Sectors
Transportation
Composites have strong potential in transportation infrastructure as materials with a strength-to-weight ratio that is significantly lower than traditional steel and concrete. The Composites Alliance has established a Working Group, which includes RI Department of Transportation engineers and composites experts and manufacturers, that focuses on exploring ways composites can be better utilized in infrastructure projects in Rhode Island.
- At the Composites in Transportation Infrastructure Workshop, held in July 2016 at Roger Williams, industry experts made a series of technical presentations on the use of composites in major bridge projects across the country.
Defense
The defense industry was an early adopter of using composites and continues to be a materials innovator. The Composites Alliance of RI is creating opportunities to better connect its members with potential business opportunities in this sector–including attending events such as Defense Innovation Days, which brings companies developing cutting-edge innovations together with policymakers who help steer the nation’s defense strategy.
- The Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) is the ideal entry point for small businesses that want to do business with NUWC Newport, and for large businesses looking for small business partners. Click here to connect with NUWC Newport on LinkedIn.
- The Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance (SENEDIA) is focused on providing its members and the region with the latest information about opportunities in the defense and homeland security sectors and facilitating the associated workforce development efforts.
- Learn how to do business with Northrup Grumman by reviewing this PDF and visiting the company’s OASIS (Online Automated Supplier Information System) portal.
Architecture/Design
The molding freedom of composites has contributed to their popularity in decorative architectural applications, but composites in architecture extend far beyond décor into structural applications. The Composites Alliance of RI is focused on creating events and programs that can better educate architects and other design professionals about the benefits, challenges and potential applications of composites.
- The ACMA has a number of resources on the use of composites in architectural projects, including the Guidelines & Recommended Practices for FRP Architectural Products. Click here to learn more.