Institute of Plastics and Circular Economy Institute News
Materials on the race track: Insights into high-performance plastics and racing at Girls* and Technology Day

Materials on the race track: Insights into high-performance plastics and racing at Girls* and Technology Day

© IKK
© IKK

How do plastics contribute to a high-performance and safe (racing) car? The IKK answered this question together with the Formula Student Team “Horsepower” from Leibniz University Hannover at the Girls* and Technology Day (Mädchen*-und-Technik-Tag). The focus was on the practical application of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics, which ensure maximum stability with minimum weight, especially in motorsports.

To make the technology not only tangible but also experiential, the showcase included—among other highlights—a real Formula Student race car converted by the IKK into a driving simulator. This allowed the students to experience the thrill of racing up close and personal while learning about the role plastics play in this context and how they contribute to passenger safety under extreme conditions.

The IKK is an important partner for the LUH Formula Student Team: In our laboratories, Horsepower puts the materials used through their paces, for example with flame retardancy tests and mechanical tests. In addition, the IKK supports the production of components for the vehicle by using its own water jet cutting system. The IKK and Horsepower are delighted to introduce young visitors to this exciting area of research.

Further information on Horsepower and Formula Student