Between September 8 and 10, the international conference 18th UK-China AMRI Advanced Materials Research Institute Research Workshop & 5th PPI Polymer Processing Innovation took place at the University of Bradford (England), bringing together researchers and specialists from around the world in the fields of materials and additive manufacturing.

During the event, two research works developed within the School of Engineering of the University of Minho were presented, reflecting the institution’s commitment to research and innovation in advanced polymers and composites.

1. Optimising PBF-LB process parameters for advanced polymer composites manufacturing

This work, presented by Ana C. Lopes, Beatriz M. Fernandes, and António J. Pontes, identifies cost-effective strategies for processing advanced materials, analyzes performance–cost trade-offs in the Powder Bed Fusion process, and assesses the economic implications of processing these materials, as well as their potential as alternatives to conventional solutions.

2. The development of injection moulding inserts/blocks using different materials and additive manufacturing technologies

This study, developed by Cátia S. Silva, Ana C. Lopes, Sérgio J. Rodrigues, and António J. Pontes, explores the combination of new materials, technologies, and advanced design techniques in the development of a new generation of hybrid moulds, with inserts produced from dissimilar metallic materials, composites, or polymeric materials. The work also highlights the role of additive manufacturing, which enables faster and more efficient shaping of new metal-based materials.

The results presented contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of polymers and reinforce the University’s role in promoting innovative and sustainable solutions within the additive manufacturing sector.