The session aims to explore recent advancements in both sustainable composite materials and digital engineering approaches, which are independently or jointly contributing to the transformation of the composites sector toward a low-carbon, high-efficiency future. Efforts to lower the carbon footprint of composites include the use of bio-based and recyclable resins, recycled fibres, hybrid and bio-inspired structures, functionalised composites, optimised lightweight structures and energy-efficient or circular manufacturing processes. These innovations aim to improve performance while minimising environmental impact. In parallel, the growing adoption of digital technologies, such as CAE-based design, multi-scale modelling, virtual testing, and digital twins, enables faster development, optimisation of structures, and better prediction of mechanical behaviour and lifetime performance. Integration with AI and data-driven methods further supports smart design and predictive maintenance strategies.
Key topics include, but are not limited to:
- Sustainable materials, processing, and recycling technologies for composites.
- Functional and smart composites.
- New optimised structures.
- Environmental assessment and life-cycle analysis (LCA).
- CAE modelling, virtual testing, and digital design for structural optimisation.
- Digital twins and AI-assisted monitoring for reliability and durability.
This session welcomes contributions addressing sustainability, digitalisation, or both, providing a platform for cross-disciplinary exchange toward the next generation of smart and sustainable composite materials.
Interested authors are kindly invited to submit their contributions by e-mail to raffaele.ciardiello@polito.it and/or simonetta.boria@unicam.it
