Analysis and Optimization of PBO cables under service conditions

PBO (p-phenylene-2, 6bezobisoxazole) fibres constitute nowadays one the most advanced polymeric fibres for structural applications due to their excellent mechanical properties. They exhibit an outstanding specific stiffness and strength, and are very well suited for structural applications in which weight saving is critical.

Future Fibres is the world’s leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of unidirectional PBO composite standing rigging for the high performance yachting and superyacht market. Future Fibres has a history of delivering innovation in design, superior composite rigging solutions, unmatched technical experience and a proven track record – where weight savings and strength are critical. Many of the world’s performance racing yachts entrust their composite rigging requirements to Future Fibres’ exceptionally lightweight, incredibly strong and precisely engineered PBO composite rigging solutions.

In order to maintain their technological leadership, FutureFibres has signed a two years research contract with IMDEA-Materials. The research project is focus on three main areas: characterization of the behaviour of PBO under service conditions, characterisation of PBO fibres failure micro-mechanisms, and development of analytical and numeric models to establish the relationship between the cable internal structure and its mechanical behaviour under service conditions.

Partners: Future Fibres (Valencia, Spain)

Funding Organisation: Future Fibres (Valencia, Spain)
Industrial Sector: Naval Engineering
Region: Valencia (Spain)
Project Period: July 2008-July 2010

Principal Investigator: Carlos Gonzalez
Contact: carlosdaniel.gonzalez@imdea.org