Syensqo’s bio-based carbon fibre used in Mercedes-AMG’s W16 race car
During the latest Azerbaijan Grand Prix in September, a Mercedes-AMG W16 race car incorporating bio-based carbon fibre composite material competed for the first time.
Syensqo’s bio-based registered trademark MTM 49-3 epoxy prepreg was incorporated in the rear brake duct wheel shields of Mercedes-AMG’s W16 race car, which competed in Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku in September, driven by British pilot George Russell. Syensqo’s resin, which was launched in early 2024, includes 30% bio-based materials. A few weeks ago, the bio-based MTM 49-3 was awarded the Green Tech Award at the Race Tech World Motorsport Symposium. The epoxy prepreg, which has been developed with 30% bio-sourced monomers, maintains the same mechanical strength, glass-transition temperature (190°C) and processability as its conventional counterpart. Compared with metals, it offers up to 40% weight savings.
This is the first time that the team has used sustainable carbon fibre composites on a technically performant component in race conditions.
“The new MTM 49-3 product variant incorporates bio-based content yet performs to the exacting standards of the motorsport industry, demonstrating that advanced materials can help the racing world move toward lower fossil use while keeping its competitive edge,” said Gaurav Unni, Global Sales Leader – Automotive Composites at Syensqo, about the Green Tech Award.
Alice Ashpitel, Head of Sustainability at Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team, said: “We are proud to be powering sustainable innovation within Formula One, introducing sustainable carbon fibre composites on a technically performant component.
“This project with Syensqo highlights our commitment to reduce our environmental impact while maintaining the highest standards of performance.
“By integrating bio-based resin within a carbon fibre composite material, we are setting a new benchmark for the future of motorsport and beyond.
“The fact that these materials have been derived from by-products associated with the creation of bio-diesel is an added benefit and indicates the power of advanced sustainable fuels.”
Cover photo: Mercedes-AMG W16 race car (source: Mercedes-AMG)
You can create a free technological watch and keep you updated about all these subjects.
