Solvay and Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) have entered into a partnership focused on research and materials development at NIAR’s facilities in Wichita, KS. The collaboration aims to bolster the aviation industry by creating opportunities for companies of all sizes to revolutionize the future of flight.

Scientists and engineers at Solvay will be embedded within NIAR’s Advanced Technologies Lab for Aerospace Systems (ATLAS), a multi-disciplinary manufacturing environment and engineering education program that helps prepare engineers and educators for the factory of the future and assist the current workforce in adapting to technological advances in the workplace. ATLAS has more than 150,000 square feet of space dedicated to developing prototypes, testing the durability and strength of aviation components, and pursuing creative solutions in partnership with aerospace OEMs.

“Solvay is excited to work with NIAR and Wichita State University to take the aerospace industry to new heights,” said Carmelo Lo Faro, President of Solvay Materials Segment and board member of the Aerospace Industries Association. “This partnership provides Solvay with access to the invaluable facilities and prototyping capabilities of NIAR’s research and development centers while helping our business partners realize new applications of our materials that can improve performance and sustainability.”

“We’re thrilled to have Solvay on site to provide material guidance and support on a variety of aerospace manufacturing applications,” said John Tomblin, WSU Senior Vice President for Industry & Defense Programs and NIAR Executive Director, ATLAS Director, and Senior Research Scientist in Composites & Structures at NIAR. “Solvay scientists work closely with our researchers to exchange ideas and results. We get guidance and material support, while Solvay also connects us with leading players in the aerospace industry to foster future collaboration.”

Through this partnership, NIAR and Solvay said they will develop applications for a variety of aerospace verticals, including commercial aircraft, defense, and urban air mobility.