Basic Research

Core Capabilities in Advanced Composites Science and Engineering

With more than 50 years of expertise, CCM is a recognized leader in composites innovation. Our capabilities span the full spectrum of science and engineering, including:

• Materials synthesis and polymer physics
• Composites processing: liquid molding, thermoplastic forming, and additive manufacturing
• Interphase science and re-engineering
• Sensing and control systems
• Sustainable composite materials and advanced joining techniques
• Custom and advanced characterization and testing
• Cost modeling and lifecycle analysis

We also specialize in applying artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to accelerate the discovery, design, and development of new composite materials and manufacturing methods.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

CCM operates within a 52,000-square-foot facility equipped with more than $30 million in advanced instrumentation. Our unique “virtual manufacturing” environment integrates simulations, modeling, and process optimization with tool design and manufacturing innovation, delivering improved quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Key Research Areas and Services

• Materials Synthesis & Engineering
  Designing and developing next-generation multi-scale materials by tailoring structures from molecular to macro levels to achieve targeted performance.
• Mechanics and Design
  Linking processing, microstructure, and properties through multi-scale modeling, numerical methods, CAD/CAM, and advanced software to optimize performance and re-engineer material architectures.
• Multifunctional Materials
  Creating composites with integrated capabilities, ranging from fire-hardened structures to advanced systems with sensors, actuators, power harvesting, and electro-optical functions.
• Performance Testing and Evaluation
  Offering comprehensive testing across mechanical, thermal, electrical, and cost metrics, while advancing new test methods and equipment development.
• Processing Science
  Advancing process simulations and optimization with AI/ML tools to improve repeatability, increase manufacturing yield, and enable next-generation composite processing.
• Sensing and Control
  Developing real-time sensing and control systems that monitor composites throughout their lifecycle, enhancing reliability, safety, and efficiency.
• Advanced Manufacturing
  Integrating process models, sensors, and automation for in-situ defect detection, correction, and quality control, helping manufacturers minimize downtime and adapt quickly to production challenges.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
  Building AI-driven platforms for inverse design and material-manufacturing integration to reduce weight, improve properties, and enable energy-efficient production.