A key objective for more efficient and sustainable aircraft is to make lightweight, durable and affordable parts which are designed for ease of maintenance. To be allowed to use parts made of new materials like composite and metal additive printed components in an industry like aviation, all of the materials must be accompanied by the right certification. NLR takes care of the entire process, from calculation and design all the way through to manufacturing, repair and certification. NLR assesses material properties, develops structural concepts and manufacturing technologies, designs components and builds parts up to the level of full scale prototypes. Spanning the entire spectrum of product development is what makes NLR unique.
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04 June 2026
Brochure: Wind tunnel modelling and testing
When an aircraft model enters a wind tunnel, it's a decisive step in development. Years of development, simulation and numerical analysis are about to face measurable reality.
04 June 2026
Booklet: R&D More electric and hydrogen-electric powered aerospace
Hydrogen as a fuel is considered to be an important route towards future sustainable aviation. For aviation
applications, hydrogen presents several key advantages: it allows for the elimination of carbon emissions in
flight and along the entire life cycle. Its usage in fuel cells allows eliminating NOx and particles. When burnt
in a turbine engine, very low particle emissions can be expected, as well as reduced NOx emissions, provided that the combustion system is optimised. However, water vapour emissions need to be carefully managed.
04 June 2026
Brochure: Research infrastructure
NLR’s research infrastructure comprises a diverse range of facilities and equipment, forming the
foundation of our applied research. Our state-of-the-art facilities are accessible to companies and
other research institutions, allowing for collaborative innovation. In this brochure we present a modest
part of our extensive facilities for aviation, defence and space applications with which we can support
your research projects and R&D activities.