Written by Kerryn Caulfield, Executive Director, Composites Australia Inc.
The properties of a range of industrial raw materials, including resins, fibres, gel coats, pigments, and fillers, have been refined over decades to meet our needs and enhance performance across various applications. Investments in research, development and innovation have continuously expanded the capabilities of general robustness, including surface hardness, colour stability, high-temperature resistance and the ability to withstand elevated thermal stress and the corrosive effects of household cleaning agents. Additionally, properties that enable manufacturing efficiency, such as efficient de-aeration and rapid curing, have been developed to ensure fast production cycle times to meet market demands. These advancements are matched by a plethora of Australian standards that provide structural integrity and occupant safety and mitigate health hazards, particularly for frequently used home spaces.
As the industry continues to evolve, composites are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of residential living.
The ongoing investment in research and development ensures that these materials will not only continue to improve but also maintain their high standards, meeting the ever-changing needs of the market and providing solutions that make everyday life easier and more efficient.
With an estimated 1.6 million new homes expected to be built by 2034, driven by population growth and urban expansion, Australia’s residential market provides a compelling opportunity for the continued widespread application of composite products and building materials.
