Energy Science & Engineering
CCM advances sustainable composites for the energy sector, emphasizing recycling, remanufacturing, and supply chain resilience. This work includes the development of recyclable-by-design polymers, closed-loop recycling protocols, Tailorable Universal Feedstock for Forming (TuFF), and AI-driven process modeling to optimize performance and reduce energy consumption.
Capabilities
- Recyclable and Sustainable Materials
Polymers and composites engineered for multiple lifecycle iterations, reducing reliance on virgin feedstocks. - Feedstock and Process Innovation
Tailorable short-fiber composites and advanced processing methods to optimize structural and thermal performance. - Digital Design and Predictive Modeling
AI-driven inverse design and process modeling for faster, data-informed material and process development. - Closed-Loop Recycling and Remanufacturing
Protocols to recover fibers and resins efficiently, minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact. - Sensor-Based Material Sorting
Integration of machine learning and sensor systems to enhance efficiency and purity in recycling workflows.
Future Aspirations
- Accelerated Sustainable Material Development – Expand AI-driven design and TuFF-enabled fabrication for faster deployment.
- Advanced Recycling & Remanufacturing – Develop new separation techniques and lifecycle-aware processes.
- Circular Economy Integration – Broaden use of bio-based and reclaimed feedstocks.
- Industrial-Scale Implementation – Scale closed-loop processes and digital design tools for energy and transportation sectors.
Why CCM for Energy Science & Engineering?
- Proven Leadership – Decades of innovation in sustainable composites.
- Integrated Capabilities – Expertise across design, processing, characterization, and prototyping.
- Industry & Government Network – DOE and energy-sector partnerships for technology transition.
- Demonstrated Impact – TuFF, AI-guided design, and closed-loop recycling protocols translate research into practical energy solutions.
Related Projects
Closed-Loop Recycling of Composites Enabled by the TuFF Process
This DOE-funded program demonstrates the feasibility of recycling carbon-fiber composites through multiple iterations while maintaining high material performance.
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Advancing Climate Neutrality in Farming Communities through Upcycling Natural Fiber-Reinforced Fireproof Vitrimer Composites
This NSF EPSCoR Track II program focuses on developing low-cost, high-performance vitrimer composites using highly aligned short natural fibers such as flax and hemp.
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Sustainable Material and Process Development for Large Offshore Wind Blade Spar Caps
This DOE-supported program develops sustainable, high-performance reinforcements for large offshore wind blade spar caps using recycled TuFF short fibers and low-cost pultrusion processing.
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Durable, High-Performance Membranes for Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
This DOE-funded effort aims to develop and demonstrate commercial-scale, high-durability membranes for proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis, advancing clean hydrogen production.
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