Michelin uses its know-how in the field of tyres to develop composite materials for critical applications

• Tyres: an ultra-complex composite

• The extreme demands associated with racing contribute to Michelin’s extensive expertise in the realm of composite materials

• Michelin is becoming a world leader in the fields of composite materials and experiences that transform our everyday lives

A composite material is the combination of two or more elements whose properties complement each other to form a product with superior performance. Tyres, by their construction, are ultra-complex products that contain raw materials with very different, sometimes opposing properties which tend not to be associated. Together, however, they are capable of delivering what may seem like conflicting performance characteristics, from grip without excessive energy consumption, efficient braking combined with long life, and flexibility yet resilient.

The extreme demands associated with racing contribute to Michelin’s extensive expertise in the realm of composite materials
Michelin is the exclusive tyre supplier to endurance racing’s Hypercars which start at Le Mans. The aerodynamic downforce generated by these powerful, highly sophisticated prototypes places tyres under severe demands, prompting Michelin’s experts to develop the most suitable raw materials and rubber compounds.

Today’s increasingly competitive and efficient racing cars consequently serve as invaluable laboratories for the development of new technologies and raw materials. Over the years, Michelin has forged a reputation for inventing innovative production processes and ever more efficient composite materials in its quest for superior performance, longevity and versatility. It is also employing a fast-increasing proportion of renewable and recycled materials to manufacture its tyres. The remarkable technology and know-how that goes into the MICHELIN Pilot Sport Endurance range of racing tyres is helping to pave the way forward for new applications.

Michelin becoming a world leader in the fields of composite materials and experiences that transform our everyday lives
Michelin’s unrivalled knowledge of materials – derived from its long experience of tyres – is enabling the Group to move closer to its objective of becoming a world leader in the field of composite materials.

At the same time, it is pursuing its strategy of external growth with the acquisition of businesses that operate in niche markets with very high added-value. Examples include the company Flex Composite Groupe (FCG) which specialises in innovative composite materials for critical sectors like the automotive, maritime, sport, infrastructure and other industries. The combination of FCG’s know-how with that of Michelin is making it possible to go further still in the understanding and supply of these highly advanced materials.

Specific examples...

• Neoprene-coated fabrics
  Michelin is investing in the world of sailing with materials intended for the manufacture of semi-rigid inflatable boats, buoys and even rescue boats. The fabric in question is a complex composite which combines a textile fibre with a polymer composition. The result is mechanical strength and perfect sealing, even when submitted to extreme conditions.
   
• Controlled-cooling fire protection
  In order to provide firefighters with the most effective protection possible, Michelin has developed controlled-cooling firefighting clothing that keeps skin temperature below 43°C and maintains body temperature at a maximum of 39°C. This is achieved thanks to the combination of a protective external technical fabric and an internal layer incorporating cool air circulation.
   
• Industrial conveyor belts
  In the same way that Michelin manufactures racing tyres that last longer with no detriment to either their performance or consistency, the Group is capable of producing increasingly robust materials for the metal ore and agricultural harvesting industries. Michelin has effectively conceived a conveyor belt made from a highly resistant, long-lasting composite material that can function in temperatures of up to 200°C, with peaks of up to 400°C.
   
• Racecar body panels and wings, bicycle frames and sports equipment
  ​​​​​​​The pre-impregnated carbon fibre produced by Michelin-owned Angeloni Group is used to make body panels and wings for racecars. Away from the world of motorsport, its high-tech composites – which resemble textiles – are employed across a wide range of sectors. Their light weight and strength make them ideal for high-performance bicycle frames, for example, as well as for other items of professional sports equipment including ski helmets and rowing oars.

These different applications represent specific examples of the potential offered by this unique know-how in the field of polymers and composites. They are also eloquent of Michelin’s determination to become a world leader in the fields of composite materials and experiences that transform our everyday lives.