Deakin University and LeMond Composites have signed a $58 million deal to use local carbon fibre technology in world-class bicycles.
Three-time Tour de France winner and founder of the company Greg LeMond signed the agreement with Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander Wednesday.
Prof den Hollander said the new technology, developed by PhD student Maxime Maghe and Carbon Nexus general manager Steve Atkiss, was a “game-changer” for manufacturing.
“This is a huge global success story, and it was incubated right here at Waurn Ponds, by one of our very own future leaders.”
Prof den Hollander said the new technology could revolutionise the advanced manufacturing sector by making carbon fibre more affordable.
“And carbon fibre could ultimately be made right here in Geelong, at our Waurn Ponds Campus, where over a decade of government, industry and our own investment has created a map for manufacturing of the future.”
LeMond Composites will also consider a carbon fibre manufacturing plant in Geelong which could create dozens of jobs for the city.
In 1986, Mr LeMond was the first cyclist to win the Tour de France on a carbon fibre bike.
The American said the ability to scale low-cost carbon fibre production had been the biggest hurdle to bring the material to the masses.
“Deakin University’s manufacturing process will make it possible to localise manufacturing and make carbon fibre technology more accessible to a wider range of industries.”
