UK headquartered Sigmatex, a leader in converting carbon fibre into innovative technical textiles for use in composites applications has entered into a partnership with Innegra Technologies. After a long working relationship, Sigmatex and Innegra Technologies are forming a strategic alliance to develop applications utilising Innegra S polypropylene fibre.

Innegra S high performance fibre is said to be the lightest structural fibre available, delivering superior toughness in a composite while at the same time reducing weight. In both glass and carbon composites, Innegra S is said to dramatically increase composite toughness and impact resistance. Innegra S aims to deliver the some of the benefits of high performance fibres such as aramids and carbon at a fraction of the cost.

“While the growth of composites has given rise to numerous new applications, it has also exposed some weaknesses in the available materials to meet stringent performance requirements. Soaring fuel and energy costs have heightened the need for even lighter composites,” Innegra says.

“The inherent rigidity of high modulus fibres has, to an extent, limited the applications available. Innegra S fiber gives the composite designer an ultra-lightweight fibre (0.84g/cc) with excellent energy absorption for impact resistance. Combining this fibre with high modulus fibres using state of the art reinforcement technologies will further fuel the growth of composite applications.”

The Sigmatex Group creates textile solutions, which optimise the performance of carbon fibre in complex structures. Key solutions include 2D woven, unidirectional, multiaxial (non-crimp) and 3D textiles across a broad range of industries including aerospace, marine, automotive, and high performance infrastructure products.

Scott Tolson, CEO, Sigmatex Group commented: “With Sigmatex’s world leading expertise and wide product range we felt that Innegra S fibre is well suited in future composite applications, and under the new ownership we envisage a long future for Innegra S applications”

“We are excited to be partnering with Sigmatex. Their wide range of reinforcement options, knowledge of high performance fibres, and market knowledge bodes well for the future of Innegra S in the global composite industry,“ said Ettin, Director, Sales & Marketing for Innegra Technologies.

Sigmatex provides products to global customers through operations in Europe, the U.S., and Asia.Innegra Technologies, LLC is an advanced materials company that develops high performance fibers for use in composite, ballistic and rope applications. Innegra’s primary product is Innegra S, which is made from 100% polypropylene and current applications include automotive, recreation, sporting goods, marine, industrial and ballistics.