Decided to share a case study on how I got into Sibur.

It all started with the accelerator "Polymer Innovations".

🎮 Inspired by the game Atomic Heart, I wondered: where else can polymers be used? My gaze fell on transportation. Specifically — on cast iron brake pads for trains.

I thought, why not replace them with modern composites?


To find the ideal composition, I developed my own method of patent analysis using AI. As a result, I obtained a promising formula:

Epoxy hybrid nanocomposite:
·Matrix: epoxy resin LR 20 + hardener LH218
·Reinforcement: short carbon fibers (5-10 mm) - optimally 10%
·Nanomodifiers: multi-walled carbon nanotubes (0.1-0.3%)
·Lubricant: graphite nanopowder (1%)


The results of the analysis and virtual tests showed the following:

Strengths vs cast iron:
✅Wear 85% lower
✅Braking distance 90% shorter
✅Stable friction coefficient 0.385-0.42 at all speeds
✅Fully non-metallic composition

Weaknesses:
❌Polymers handle peak thermal loads worse
❌Cost — carbon fibers and nanotubes are more expensive than cast iron
❌Durability under overheating — degrade faster than metal

Conclusion: The idea is promising, but for a start it's better to find a niche where replacement will be cheaper and polymers can be used in tons. This systematic approach attracted Sibur's attention.