JEC World 2026: Key Takeaways for the Composites Industry

JEC World 2026: Key Takeaways for the Composites Industry

Insights from: Christian Steiner

JEC World 2026 once again brought the global composites industry together in Paris, reinforcing its position as the leading international event dedicated to composite materials, technologies and applications. With thousands of professionals attending from across the global supply chain, the event provided valuable insight into how the sector is evolving and where future opportunities are emerging.

RBH Group exhibited alongside our principal partner Lindau Chemicals, Inc., providing the opportunity to meet with customers and partners from across the composites industry and discuss current material challenges, formulation trends and emerging application areas.

Several key themes stood out across the exhibition halls and technical discussions.

Flame Retardant Technologies Remain a Major Industry Focus

One of the most noticeable themes throughout JEC World 2026 was the strong level of industry interest in flame retardant technologies. Across sectors such as transportation, construction and electrical applications, manufacturers continue to look for materials that can deliver high performance while meeting increasingly demanding fire safety standards.

Our team had a large number of discussions with customers exploring mineral based flame retardant solutions and formulation approaches designed to improve fire performance in composite systems. The level of engagement around this topic clearly highlights how important fire safety remains within many composite applications.

Anhydrides and High-Performance Resin Systems

Another key topic discussed at our stand was the continued importance of anhydride curing agents in high performance epoxy systems. Anhydrides are widely used in advanced composite formulations where excellent thermal stability, chemical resistance and electrical performance are required.

Working closely with Lindau Chemicals, Inc., we were able to discuss how anhydride chemistry continues to support demanding applications, notably in Prepreg, Filament Winding & Pultrusion production methods

Sustainability and Circular Composites

Sustainability continues to gain momentum across the composites sector. Many exhibitors showcased solutions aimed at reducing environmental impact through improved material efficiency, recyclable resin systems and the use of recycled fibres.

There is a growing focus on developing circular composite systems where materials are designed with recovery and reuse in mind. This shift is increasingly being driven by regulatory pressures as well as customer expectations around sustainability.

Digitisation and Simulation in Composite Design

Digital modelling and simulation technologies are playing an increasingly important role in composite development. Advanced simulation tools are enabling engineers to optimise fibre orientation, predict structural performance and accelerate product development.

These technologies are helping manufacturers reduce development time while improving efficiency and reducing material waste.

Thermoplastic Composites Continue to Grow

Thermoplastic composites were also widely discussed across the show. Compared with traditional thermoset systems they offer faster processing, improved recyclability and the potential for welding rather than mechanical fastening.

These advantages are driving growing adoption in sectors such as automotive and transportation where high-volume manufacturing and shorter cycle times are essential.

Expanding Applications for Composite Materials

JEC World 2026 again demonstrated how the use of composite materials continues to expand across multiple industries. While aerospace remains a key driver of innovation, growth is also being seen in construction, marine, renewable energy and transportation sectors.

Lightweighting, corrosion resistance and design flexibility continue to make composite materials an attractive solution for engineers seeking improved performance.

Looking Ahead

The conversations and technologies showcased at JEC World 2026 highlight how the composites industry continues to evolve. Sustainability, advanced resin systems and improved manufacturing technologies are shaping the next generation of composite materials and applications.

We’ll see you at JEC 2027