R&D cases
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Air Traffic Management(7)
Airport Operations(2)
Construction and Manufacturing(13)
Data Science and Engineering(1)
Defence and Security(15)
Flight Operations and Certification(1)
Maintenance and Repair(8)
Platform System Design(8)
Platform Technology(5)
Space Technology(8)
Sustainability and Environment(10)
Training and Simulation(16)
R&D Case(59)
Explore our R&D cases
NLR is actively involved in various research projects and programmes in the Netherlands, Europe, and globally. As an independent aerospace research institute, we conduct applied research, focusing on a practical approach and innovative solutions. These R&D cases provide an insight into the diverse range of research activities and the projects we have been involved.
59 results found
Construction and Manufacturing
20 March 2025
R&D case: Enabling temperature control for large scale additive manufacturing
The challenge One of the main challenges of Large Scale 3D printing of high temperature thermoplastics is the control of the interface temperature – which determines the degree of bonding between consecutive layers. When the deposited material has cooled down in excess, poor adhesion is achieved between layers, leading to insufficient strength, delamination, cracking and […]
Sustainability and Environment
28 January 2025
R&D case COCOLIH2T – Composite Conformal Liquid H2 Tank
The global aviation industry is committed to reducing global net aviation carbon emissions by 50% by the year 2050, with the European Commission pursuing a more ambitious goal of a 75% reduction in CO2 emissions per passenger kilometre. Alternative fuels such as liquid hydrogen (LH2) are seen as playing a central role in a zero-emission […]
Maintenance and Repair
18 December 2024
R&D case: Smart maintenance inspections and smart training devices
Maintenance is important to make aircraft operations a success. Unfortunately, the MRO industry is faced with a shortage of labour and pollution. How can we use innovations to help the industry? The challenge Aircraft maintenance organisations perform high-tech maintenance on aircraft. The maintenance activities are labour intensive and require considerable resources. In this research, we […]
Maintenance and Repair
18 December 2024
R&D case: Remote Support for Maintenance Personnel
Global aviation is increasing, but the current lack of qualified maintenance personnel is becoming very problematic.It may eventually lead to a reduced availability of the fleets and, thus, reduced revenues for their operators. Part of the solution is to increase the efficiency of the existing maintenance processes by introducing innovative tooling. Royal NLR has developed […]
Construction and Manufacturing
27 November 2024
R&D case: Development of AM-propellant tanks for use in satellites
This research project aimed to develop additively manufactured propellant tanks using non-standard metals for use in ESPA and ESPA Grande-class satellites. The propulsion systems of Dawn Aerospace use self-pressurizing propellants, eliminating the need for helium pressurants and propellant management devices. This allows for flexible, custom tank designs without additional systems, making Dawn’s propulsion systems simpler, […]
Construction and Manufacturing
02 October 2024
R&D case: SUSTAINair
SUSTAINability increase of lightweight, multifunctional and intelligent airframe and engine parts SUSTAINair is addressing the major challenge of making aircraft more sustainable. The research project focused on new technologies, materials, manufacturing processes and systems to achieve a paradigm shift to a circular approach of aircraft design and manufacturing. Aircraft need to become more recyclable from design, […]
Training and Simulation
31 August 2024
R&D case: ARTEX
ARTEX: Augmented Reality for Technical Exploitation in C-IED Operations The challenge Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are a day-to-day reality in conflicts and are regarded by the armed forces as tactical weapons with a strategic effect. IEDs inflict fatal or serious injury and damage to personnel and equipment, limit the freedom of movement and mobility of […]
Training and Simulation
28 August 2024
R&D case: ICARUS – Virtual Reality AIT Trainer
The assembly and integration of small satellites require a high level of precision and security. Aspiring satellite builders, such as university project groups, need to develop a comprehensive understanding of satellite construction and space awareness. Consequently, satellite companies like ISISPACE are seeking effective educational and training solutions to enhance the learning process for these future […]
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