Congratulations to BioMat master student Timo Sippach who get 2nd place in BauNetz awards. Awards are given to the best theses (bachelor, master) in the field of architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture, interior design from universities in Germany and Europe. Awarded thesis called “Structure optimization through fiber orientation of natural fiber composites” investigates innovative optimization of a lightweight construction element which is created through the combination of biological role models, materials, and interdisciplinary manufacturing methods.

After a long procedure, BioMat finally got its own Wire laying machine so-called Tailored Fibre Placement machine. The machine will be a part of the Large Scale Construction Robotics Laboratory in Vaiblingen, established under IntCDC cluster of excellence in 2019. The machine will be primarily used for laying of natural continuous fibers used as a reinforcement for Biocomposites. BioMat through this machine will be able to further explore the optimization of biocomposite fiber layout as well as an automatization and digitalization of the fabrication process. Due to the multifunctionality of the machine, BioMat researchers will investigate the possibilities of embedded functions. Smart biocomposites will be able to accommodate soft actuators, sensors, additional reinforcements, fire stops, thermo insulations, etc. The goal is to reach a more sustainable building industry through on-site automatization and digital fabrication of natural fibres.