FibreCoat and Lofith Composites develop recyclable composites for space

FibreCoat and Lofith Composites have entered into a strategic partnership to create next-generation thermoplastic composites designed for space applications. The collaboration will merge FibreCoat’s advanced coated fibres with Lofith’s recyclable, high-performance composites to produce lightweight structural materials capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of space.

A first orbital demonstration of the new material is scheduled for 2026, during which a satellite will carry test panels into orbit for 12 months. Throughout the mission, detectors will monitor ionizing radiation exposure, temperature variations, and other environmental impacts, key data that will help determine if the material is truly “space-ready.”

Meanwhile, FibreCoat recently received €500,000 in funding after winning the Industry category of the DLR INNOspace Masters’ DLR Challenge. The company has pioneered a method to coat metals and plastics directly onto fibres during the spinning process, resulting in materials that offer exceptional strength and conductivity at lower weight and cost. Its latest bismuth-based coating adds further functionality to its product line.