Is a new heavy-duty material replacing carbon fiber?
Carbon composite, commonly known as “carbon,” is both lightweight and extremely durable. But there are two problems: firstly, it is quite expensive, and secondly, it is not clear how environmentally friendly. However, the McLaren Formula 1 team and the Swiss company are now experimenting with a new plant-based material that can provide a solution to both issues.
McLaren's involvement in this pioneering project is no coincidence. To start mass use on carbon composites The release of the McLaren Formula 1 car - MP4 / 1 in 1981 - is accepted. It is the first vehicle to feature a carbon fiber chassis and body for strength and light weight. Back then, Formula 1 focused on the serious use of composite materials, and today about 70% of the weight of Formula 1 cars comes from these materials.
Now the British team is working with the Swiss company Bcomp on a new material, the main raw material for the production of one of the flax varieties.
The new composite has already been used to create the seats of two McLaren Formula 1 drivers Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris, who have passed the most stringent safety tests. The result is seats that meet the requirements for strength and durability, while emitting 75% less carbon dioxide. And which were tested during the pre-season tests in Barcelona in February.
“The use of natural composite materials is part of McLaren's innovation in this area,” said team leader Andreas Seidl. – According to the FIA rules, the minimum weight of the pilot must be 80 kg. Our pilots weigh 72 and 68 kg, so we can use the ballast that should be part of the seat. That's why new materials need to be strong and not so light. I think that in the near future, renewable composite materials like flax will be extremely important for sports and automotive production.”
