News & Updates

By implementation of the pilot-scale prepreg manufacturing line at the Composites and Smart Materials Lab (CSML) of the University of Ioannina, the TorPropel partners are producing carbon fiber tapes incorporating advanced 3R vitrimer resin. These tapes are specifically engineered for next-generation automated composite manufacturing to address the requirements of the Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) advanced placement method. This method will be employed to manufacture the project's

An aircraft propeller produces thrust by rotating its blades, which act like small wings with an airfoil shape. As the blades spin, they create a pressure difference—lower pressure in front and higher pressure behind. These pushes air backward (propwash) creating a thrust force, propelling aircraft forward. Unfortunately, during the thrust production the propeller is creating an aerodynamic losses in form of the blade tip vortices. By changing the shape of the propeller to to

Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) is the world’s first automated composites deposition technology that places wide composites tapes around curved paths without any defects. Effective fibre steering through the RTS head enables rapid manufacture of complex-shaped parts with unprecedented weight and performance benefits, which is not achievable with current techniques. In the Torpropel project, this technology will be implemented to optimize the propeller composite structure by detailed

In the TorPropel project, we are combining the CFD simulation with the Multi-Objective Optimization methodology. The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation is a practical implementation of the Navier-Stokes equations, approximated by the RANS turbulence model to compute an approximate result of the flow field. The CFD methods revolutionized modern aerodynamics and are widely used in the aerospace and automotive industries, from aircraft aerodynamics to heat transfer. B

In recent years, new polymer chemistries based on dynamic covalent bonds have emerged, combining the main advantages of current thermoset resins (thermo-mechanical and chemical resistance) and thermoplastic resins (recyclability and reprocessability). The chemical strategy of these new materials, called vitrimers, is based on introducing plasticity into the cross-linked polymer network through exchangeable chemical bonds, since the exchange reactions can be activated on deman

In recent years, new polymer chemistries based on dynamic covalent bonds have emerged, combining the main advantages of current thermoset resins (thermo-mechanical and chemical resistance) and thermoplastic resins (recyclability and reprocessability). The chemical strategy of these new materials, called vitrimers, is based on introducing plasticity into the cross-linked polymer network through exchangeable chemical bonds, since the exchange reactions can be activated on deman

Limmat Scientific AG is a global leader in hashtag aerodynamic measurement technologies for turbomachinery research, supporting innovation across both the aerospace and energy sectors. In the TorPropel project, Limmat Scientific is responsible for the parametric design of the toroidal propeller blades.   Their contribution leverages: - Deep expertise in experimental diagnostics- Engineering-driven performance analysis- Proven capabilities in aerodynamic optimization . Their w

The Brunel Composites Centre (BCC) is a branch of Brunel University, combining the best practices from both academia and industry to serve as a bridge between theoretical and practical knowledge. The Brunel Composites Centre specializes in composites manufacturing, simulations, and life cycle analysis. In TorPropel, BCC will select and integrate sensors into propeller blades and perform a detailed life cycle analysis, improving aircraft downtime between overhaul.

iCOMAT is a world-leading carbon fiber parts manufacturer specializing in the automation of laying down fibers along curved paths. In 2020, the company patented the Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) method , allowing for the development of lighter and stronger structures.   iCOMAT will implement the RTS process to manufacture the Toroidal Propeller prototype and assess the benefits of employment of this groundbreaking technology.

GMI Aero specializes in composite materials repair and maintenance. The company focuses on the development of maintenance equipment and field repairs within hangars and airport-based workshops , providing convenient and time-effective services on and off aircraft.   In the TorPropel project, GMI will develop repair procedures for novel vitrimer-based composite propellers , simultaneously improving reliability and cutting maintenance time.

The Chair of Carbon Composites at the Technical University of Munich is a globally recognized research center specializing in fibre-reinforced materials. Their experience includes designing composite structures from raw materials to complete products. In the TorPropel project, the University will:​- optimise the toroidal propeller - perform aeroelasticity analysis of the composite structure- manufacture the specialized tools and forms for precise propeller manufacturing.​

CIDETEC is a leading Spanish applied research organization specialising in surface technologies, advanced polymers, and sustainable material solutions for sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and energy. In the TorPropel project, CIDETEC is focused on:- Formulating a vitrimer for a recyclable and repairable toroidal propeller- Supporting advanced manufacturing via Rapid Tow Shearing (in collaboration with iCOMAT )- Investigating chemical recycling pathways using cont

The Laboratory of Fluid Mechanics and Turbomachinery (LFMT) at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) brings extensive expertise in aeronautical engineering , with a focus on the design , development , and testing of novel aircraft propulsion components . In TorPropel , AUTH-LFMT is responsible for the aerodynamic and acoustic optimisation of the toroidal propeller design.   Their role includes the development of an advanced modelling pipeline, combining: - Com

We’re proud to introduce Evektor, a key partner in the TorPropel project. With over 30 years of experience in general aviation, Evektor is a leading Czech aircraft manufacturer and a trusted provider of engineering services for the aerospace sectors.​ Their deep expertise in aerodynamic design, structural analysis, and advanced numerical simulations positions them as a vital contributor to TorPropel. As part of the project, Evektor will: ​​- Lead the planning and execution of

The Composite & Smart Materials Laboratory (CSML) at the University of Ioannina, Greece, brings a legacy of excellence in composite materials research to the forefront of sustainable aviation as the coordinator of the TorPropel project.  Established in 2007 within the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, CSML has developed into a powerhouse of innovation in functional and structural composites.   With over 500 journal and conference publications, more than 20 nati

Greetings. I am Roland Furmanek, and I am Aerodynamics and Performance Engineer at Evektor in Czech Republic. Within the TorPropel project, I am responsible for development of Propeller Specifications and Manufacturing Requirements (WP1) and Preparation and Execution of full-scale testing campaign (WP4). The TorPropel project focuses on the development of a new generation of propellers by the implementation of the toroidal propellers’ technology and novel composite materials

We are thrilled to announce the successful Kick-off Meeting of TorPropel , an ambitious research initiative focused on advancing aerospace propulsion through  toroidal propellers .With a strong consortium of leading industry players, academic institutions, and research organisations, we are working together to enhance efficiency, reduce noise pollution, and promote sustainable aviation solutions.   The TopPropel Project Team Consortium Members:​ University of Ioannina Ari