(a) What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their applications in aviation and automobile industries. (b) What do you understand by Run-of-river hydroelectricity project? How is it different from any other hydroelectricity project?

(a) FRP composite material

A Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composite combines strong reinforcing fibres, such as glass, carbon or aramid, embedded in a polymer resin matrix (epoxy or polyester). The fibres bear load while the matrix binds them and transfers stress, giving a high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance.

Manufacture: common methods include hand lay-up, filament winding, pultrusion, and resin transfer moulding, where fibres are laid in a mould, impregnated with resin and cured under heat/pressure.

• Aviation: fuselage, wings and interiors use carbon-fibre composites to cut weight and fuel burn, as in the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350.
• Automobile: body panels, chassis and structural parts reduce weight, improving mileage and, in EVs, range.

(b) Run-of-river hydroelectric project

A run-of-river (RoR) project generates electricity using the natural flow and gradient of a river, with little or no water storage. Water is diverted through a channel or penstock to the turbine and returned to the river.

• Unlike a conventional storage (reservoir) project, it does not build a large dam or submerge extensive land.
• Output depends on real-time river flow, so generation fluctuates seasonally and is lower in lean months.
• Lower displacement and submergence, but limited storage and peaking capability.

Conclusion

FRP composites and run-of-river hydropower both illustrate technology aligning performance with sustainability.