Nanotechnology boosts solar project
Bayer MaterialScience has become an official partner of the Solar Impulse project. It will provide technical expertise, high-tech polymer materials and energy-saving lightweight products.
The company says that its Baytubes carbon nanotubes could increase battery performance and improve the strength of structural components, while keeping their weight to a minimum. Other potential applications include innovative adhesives, polyurethane rigid foams for panelling in the cockpit and engine, and extremely thin yet break-resistant polycarbonate films and sheet for the cockpit glazing. Bertrand Piccard, founder of the Solar Impulse project, says support from Bayer MaterialScience is a significant boost for the project. “I've always been fascinated by nanotechnology. Now, we will be able to make our airplane even lighter and more efficient.”
