The primary goal of the InteReSt-II project is to significantly increase the use of resource-efficient materials in aircraft construction and substantially improve the ecological footprint. Building on existing results, the planned research focuses on replacing common aerospace materials such as CFRP and GFRP with innovative hybrid natural fiber composites (NFC) containing a biogenic mass fraction of more than 50%. A further objective is to investigate the applicability of renewable raw materials in aerospace structures, as well as their functionality and compliance with key airworthiness requirements. As part of the joint project, a helicopter cabin door will serve as a representative demonstrator for evaluating the technology concept.
To introduce new lightweight materials in aviation, they must not only meet primary properties such as strength, stiffness, and fatigue resistance but also comply with requirements derived from aircraft certification regulations. These include various environmental influences. To protect the natural fibers from environmental conditions, a suitable coating must be identified.
The advantages of biomaterials are already being researched and evaluated in various sectors, such as the automotive industry—for example, in interior door panels. InteReSt II will examine the application case on an ultralight helicopter (CoAX 2D by edm aerotec GmbH).
Finally, the assessment of biological materials and construction methods will be published, and further application possibilities will be evaluated. In addition to mechanical analysis, the product life cycle and CO₂ footprint will play an important role.
