Secondly, the report describes CFRP composite production as a “nascent industry,” and that the state already has the infrastructure in place to help it succeed.
“Virginia has advantages in its CFRP composites supply chain due to its anchor companies, strategic location and diversity of companies involved with carbon fiber (or similar fiber) production,” the report says. “Gaps in the CFRP composite supply chain, like the lack of a carbon fiber filament production facility, represent growth opportunities for the Commonwealth.”
The report also made five policy recommendations:
- Continue targeting carbon fiber manufacturers on overseas Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) missions
- Join the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI) and create a Composites Council
- Host an advanced materials technology competition and “hackathon”
- Create an online platform to streamline permits and allow local cost comparisons
- Expand local implementation of “Defense Production Zones” to composites industry cluster companies
