The HISTRATE project aims to form the scientific and technological basis for establishing and implementing a robust framework for the certification of advanced composite structures subject to high strain rate loading. A paradigm shift in simulation comprehensiveness, high strain rate testing and sensing tools is needed to replace the complex, laborious building block approach for validation and product certification with approaches based on simulations which require less tests.

Advances in modeling tools and experimental methods will enable the design of lighter, safer, and more energy-efficient structures. COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) supports networking events aimed at fostering collaboration between researchers working in the same field. HISTRATE will provide interactive workshops and seminars along with an online “interactive composites community hub” to disseminate available research results. The project currently involves 80 European and non-European partners, academic and industrial experts working in the broad field of composites. Achievement of the goals relies on knowledge within the broad HISTRATE network.