Boeing will source carbon fiber pre-impregnated (prepreg) composite material for the Boeing 777X from a new joint venture formed by Mubadala Development Company of Abu Dhabi and Belgian chemical concern Solvay. Boeing is the first customer of the Mubadala-Solvay joint venture.

Plans call for the 50/50 joint venture to supply prepreg composite materials for the empennage and floor beams of the 777X beginning in 2021. The partners will erect a new manufacturing facility at the Nibras Al Ain Aerospace Park in Abu Dhabi.

“After close collaboration with Mubadala and Solvay to expand the supply of aerospace composites, Boeing is pleased to be the first customer for their new joint venture in the UAE,” said Ray Conner, Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO. “Our commitment to purchase this prepreg material for the 777X meets several important goals for Boeing, from further advancing aerospace industry development in the UAE to expanding high-quality materials in our supply chain.

In 2013, Boeing and Mubadala announced a framework strategic agreement to increase the long-term role of Mubadala as a direct supplier to Boeing, including support as Mubadala developed prepreg manufacturing in UAE. Mubadala and Solvay announced a strategic partnership in 2013.

Solvay’s prepreg technology consists of fiber reinforcements pre-impregnated with a resin matrix to create a composite part.

“Solvay’s teaming up with Mubadala in this essential project in support of Boeing’s growth plans showcases our capabilities in advanced aerospace composite technologies, including primary structure applications,” said Jean-Pierre Clamadieu, Solvay CEO. “We are proud to be part of the innovative 777X aircraft.”