Yangtze River Delta R&D center introduces plant fiber-based breathers

The Yangtze River Delta Carbon Fiber and Composite Material Innovation Center (CCIC, Changzhou, China), focused on the research, development and industrial application of composite material structures and green manufacturing technologies, has developed a range of Eco-Breather products incorporating plant fibers to address environmental concerns associated with petroleum-derived polyester or polyamide breathers.

Breathers are nonwoven, consumable fabrics used in composites manufacturing, particularly in vacuum forming techniques. They facilitate airflow and enable volatile substances to escape, ensuring continuous and uniform pressure is applied to the composite laminate during consolidation and curing. 

CCIC Eco-Breathers are reported to be fully compatible with current composite vacuum techniques, with temperature resistance of up to 200°C. CCIC says they remain stable at elevated temperatures, without the softening and consolidation associated with 100% synthetic fibers. This preserves the original structure, maximizing permeability retention and enabling them to be reused in multiple molding cycle. Additionally, the Eco-Breather can be produced in a fully biodegradable form, supporting green manufacturing practices and contributing to a circular economy.