The JEC Composite Show will be held in Paris/France, from April 1-3, 2008. Manufacturing will be the central subject of the 2008 Show, which will feature all the current processes. There will be a special focus on the least expensive and most flexible techniques. Cost optimization at all steps in the production chain will be scrutinized.

The 2008 session will highlight the main developments in R&D, analysis, engineering, design, CAD/CAM, simulation, prototyping, stereolithography, testing, non-destructive testing, process industrialisation and nanocomposites.

The 2008 Show will also present the full range of design tools and resources that contribute to the development of a sector that is constantly innovating, with a focus on equipment, machines, tooling, machine tools, automation, quality assurance, surface treatment, coatings, software and hardware, ancillary equipment, fillers, and additives.

Mould manufacturing is still an active area when it comes to the materials used and the concerns with reducing cycle times while saving on energy and raw materials. This year, special attention will be paid to bonding techniques and the latest adhesive innovations.

The composite industry now prioritizes environmental improvements as much as other composite properties. The environment is taken into account across the board, for example with the reduction of weight to achieve energy savings, with mould heating techniques, and the increased concern for noise attenuation.

Regulatory impacts have pushed the sector along in this direction. The three types of regulations that apply to the industry are VOC emission regulations, European recycling directives, and limitations on CO2 emissions. The composite sector is responding by automating more and more. Closed-mould technologies are developing rapidly, making it possible to reduce VOC emissions and increase productivity, for example up to ten craft per day in the yachting industry.

Composites are affected by recycling directives stipulating that by 2015, each end-of-life (EOL) vehicle must be 95% recycled, compared to 85% in 2006. Car makers are already taking the directive into account in the design of tomorrow's vehicles. The sector has set up recycling and recyclate-recovery streams, with identification of user segments.