The training started with a theoretical lecture on the types of fibres, sandwich composites, damage assessment and inspection and also how to repair a composite material when it is damaged.

This was followed by practical work. It started with the production of a woven glass fibre plate. The next day, the same plate was damaged and repaired using the methodologies taught by the training supervisor, Rick van Opdorp.

The next days were dedicated to the production and repair of a part using composite fabrics and honeycomb structures. After that, an airplane wing was also damaged and repaired. This part was the most interesting, since the researchers were able to work with a real structure. In addition, they were able to utilize some advanced equipment for resin curing.

This was also a great opportunity for the young researchers to do some team building. During the training week, they were able to travel in the evenings to some places like Antwerp, Kinderdijk, Rotterdam or Bergen op Zoom. Finally, our many thanks to ACRATS and Rick van Opdorp for this amazing workshop.