Airbus, China join hands in nano-tech application in aeronautic industry

BEIJING - Airbus and China's nanoscience research institution on Thursday announced the joint establishment of a lab to explore the engineering application of nanoscience in the aeronautic industry.

Airbus Beijing Engineering Centre (ABEC) and the National Centre for Nanoscience and Technology of China (NCNST) on Thursday signed an agreement on engineering polymer nanocomposites for aeronautic applications.

They will jointly conduct research on electrically conductive, self-healing and toughening nanocomposites, aiming to explore the engineering applications of nanocomposite technology.

"Nanoscience is changing people's perception and will greatly impact the future economy and industry development," said NCNST director Liu Minghua.

Liu added, the Chinese side will bring into full play its advantages in the cutting-edge nano-tech to enhance the structural and functional performances of the nanocomposites in the aviation field.

Co-founded by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the Ministry of Education, the NCNST is China's key nanoscience scientific research base for its basic and applied study.

The ABEC is a joint venture between Airbus and China Aviation Industry Corporation. It takes part in designing components for all Airbus programs, such as the five percent of A350XWB airframe work packages.

"I am delighted to witness another milestone in the history of ABEC and to see our cooperation in China extending to new areas with new partners.

"Research and innovation are key drivers for Airbus and we think highly of China's innovation abilities. It is a new milestone of the deepening cooperation between Airbus and China," said Francois Mery, COO of Airbus China commercial aircraft.

"China is a leader in the field of nanoscience. I am confident that our cooperation will benefit both sides and the future of the global aviation industry with the expertise of Airbus and our Chinese partners," he said.