Composites to get dekko

In an effort to promote composite materials, which are energy-efficient, eco-friendly and sustainable, the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), in association with RV-TIFAC Composite Design Centre, has organised a two-day seminar on 'Composites for Industrial and Economic Development of Karnataka' on March 24 and 25 here.

Acclaimed the world over as a wonder material, composites are durable and display exceptional properties that are difficult to obtain from traditional materials such as wood, steel, aluminium and concrete.

"Primarily developed for aerospace and defence applications, composite technology is now widely used in building and construction, infrastructure development, automotive and transportation. This is a cost-effective technology, which has tremendous potential for rural employment," said FKCCI president S Babu at a press conference here on Tuesday.

The global market for composites is worth $60 billion (Rs 25,000 crore) whereas in India it is only around Rs 800 crore.

"Recent developments show that composites can be used in engineering, chemical, food processing, pharmaceutical, agricultural and leisure industry. The raw materials used for composite technology are glass fibres, polyester resin and natural fibres. The products are much superior in quality and durability," he contended.

The RV-TIFAC design centre the brainchild of President A P J Abul Kalam, was set up by the department of science and technology, government of India. The centre has successfully designed, developed and demonstrated a number of composite products for applications in housing, building and energy sectors.

"The CDC has also transferred the technology know-how to 52 SMEs for commercialisation and generated an estimated business of over Rs 100 crore. In fact, rural entrepreneurs can set up projects with a minimum investment of Rs 10 lakh. The State Bank of Mysore has included promotion of composite technology under the PMY scheme," said RV-TIFAC CDC Director R Gopalan.

The seminar will be inaugurated by deputy chief minister B S Yediyurappa, who is also the large and medium industries minister. It will be attended by representatives of Central and state governments, industrial associations, banks, architects and potential end users.