Chemical company Arkema SA is teaming up with Fulcrum SP Materials to develop high-performance composite parts with improved damage resistance.

The companies hope to develop technology that will allow them to graft carbon nanotubes onto two- or three-dimensional woven fabrics. These will then be used to produce composite parts.

“Fulcrum’s innovative technology of bonding carbon nanotubes directly to the fabric such as carbon fiber is unique and if successful could set new standards in advanced composites markets,” said Moshe Kelner, president of Arkema's Israel operation, in a news release.

According to Fulcrum, demand for composite materials is growing thanks to their strength and light-weight compared to conventional materials such as steel and aluminum.

Arkema is based in Colombes. Fulcrum SP Materials is part of Fulcrum SP Ltd., based in Herzliya Pituach, Israel, which is owned by Maayan Ventures, a publicly traded firm that invests in technology companies.

The global market for composite materials is set to grow to $53 billion in 2014, up from its current size of $21.5 billion.