Page 5 - Research and innovation In advanced materials with application to the railway sector

LIGHTWEIGHTING

The development of new materials, whether they are hybrid materials, metal alloys or
polymeric matrix composite materials, is aimed, in many cases, at solving the lightening
needs mainly associated with energy efficiency, but also with the maximization of payloads,
with aspects of maintenance, durability and exploitation. Also contributing to the lightening
of rolling stock components is the integration of different functions and subsystems.

In this section, it can be highlighted the work in the development of hybrid materials and
multimaterial structures, seeking to combine the best properties of each type of material.
Also, the work in the introduction of additive manufacturing concepts, both for metal alloys
and reinforced plastics, which allow achieving optimized designs without compromising
mechanical properties.

It is also important to take into account the contribution of design, calculation and
simulation and optimization tools that facilitate these developments: multiscale simulation
for the prediction of material properties, topological optimization, based on genetic
algorithms, etc.

With these approximations, some of the ongoing R+D+I projects show estimates that point
to a weight reduction of around 30-50% in rolling stock.

SURFACE TECHNOLOGIES AND MULTIFUNCTIONALITY

This section includes different lines of work that seek to improve the properties of materials
by adding new functionalities. This generally involves the use of surface technologies:
technologies for single or multi-layer deposition with specific properties, laser deposition
(LMD), sputtering, functional printing, coatings and paints with advanced properties,
nanomaterials, etc.

Among the added functions, we can mention the improvement in wear resistance, chemical
or physical or climatic or atmospheric agents, or the integration of electrical functions in
smart surfaces: wiring, heating, lighting, etc., or electronics, sensors, antennas, etc. Likewise,
the development of active (Smart Damping) or passive damping solutions, or the use of
residual heat or energy dissipated in vibrations (Energy Harvesting).

Other lines of work related to these technologies are, for example, the development of nano-
additivated coatings with bactericidal and virucidal functionality, hydrophobic, easier to
clean. Some of these properties can also be obtained by micro-texturing techniques.
Similarly, works are ongoing on coatings and surfaces to improve acoustic behaviour and
control of thermal radiation.

FIRE RESISTANCE

In the section of materials with high resistance to fire and low smoke toxicity, the main lines
of work are related with fireproofing using additives, with which to develop components
and products with certification in accordance with the risk levels and requirements defined
in the EN45545. The objective is to replace brominated or halogenated additives with
others based on intumescent systems and nanoparticles that are safer for people and the
environment.

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Position paper: Research and innovation in advanced materials with application to the railway sector
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