KASA Embarks on Localization of Recyclable Aerospace Materials... 30.3 Billion Won Invested to Enter Global Supply Chain

Development of Core Technologies for Thermoplastic Composite Materials and Parts Manufacturing Over Five Years

Securing End-to-End Technologies from Materials to Recycling

Laying the Foundation for Entry into the Global Supply Chain

The Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA) is embarking on the development of next-generation recyclable aerospace materials. The agency's strategy is to lay the groundwork for entering the global aircraft supply chain by localizing "thermoplastic composites," which are currently being fostered by the United States and Europe as key next-generation aircraft technologies.

KASA announced that starting from July 28 for two days at KB Innizenium in Sacheon, Gyeongnam, it would hold a kick-off meeting for the 'Development of Core Technologies for Sustainable Thermoplastic Aircraft Components' project, marking the official start of research and development.

The Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA) is embarking on the development of next-generation recyclable aerospace materials. Provided by KASA

This project will receive a total investment of 30.3 billion won (25 billion won from the government) over the next five years until 2030. The goal is to secure flame-retardant, recyclable thermoplastic composite materials and the core technologies for manufacturing aircraft parts using these materials.

Thermoplastic composites can be remolded when heat is applied, making them recyclable next-generation aerospace materials. Eighteen R&D institutions will participate in the project to secure end-to-end technologies, ranging from material development to high-speed and automated manufacturing processes, testing and performance validation, and recycling technologies.

Intense Competition Between the US and Europe... South Korea Aims to Enter the Global Supply Chain

Thermoplastic composites are considered a core technology for increasing the productivity of future aircraft manufacturing.

Europe, through the 'Clean Sky 2' program involving Airbus, is developing demonstration projects for large fuselage structures and next-generation single-aisle aircraft manufacturing technologies. Similarly, the United States, through NASA's 'HiCAM' project with Boeing and others, is working on high-speed manufacturing technologies.

On the other hand, South Korea lacks a robust technology and supply base that extends from design to manufacturing, testing, and performance validation. Through this project, KASA plans to secure core technologies and lay the foundation for domestic companies to enter the global supply chain.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has projected that the gap between global aircraft demand and production capacity will persist from 2031 to 2034. KASA expects that securing high-productivity thermoplastic composite technologies will serve as a valuable opportunity for domestic companies to enter global supply chains.

Tae seog Oh, Commissioner of the Korea Aerospace Administration, stated, "The United States and Europe are developing thermoplastic composites at a national level because they are key technologies that determine the competitiveness of next-generation aircraft. We will provide proactive support so that our companies can play a pivotal role in global supply chains by securing end-to-end technologies, from materials to recycling."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.