HZ info:On March 19, Nanshan Zhishang announced a strategic partnership with Wuhan University’s Industrial Science Research Institute and Wuhan Shouzhi Innovation Technology Co., Ltd. The three parties will jointly establish an innovation consortium, focusing on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber (UHMWPE fiber) as a core breakthrough to advance the localization of critical materials in the humanoid robotics supply chain. This collaboration not only marks Nanshan Zhishang’s transformative leap from traditional textiles to advanced manufacturing but also represents a significant milestone in China’s pursuit of autonomy in foundational robotics technologies.

From Textiles to Robotics: A New Material-Driven Industrial Synergy

As a leader in functional new materials with two decades of expertise, Nanshan Zhishang has built a cross-industry collaborative matrix through its dual-drive strategy of “classic wool textiles + cutting-edge materials.” In this partnership, the company’s role is clear: leverage its domestically leading UHMWPE fiber technology to provide core material solutions for humanoid robots, including drive components, bionic skin, and lightweight skeletons.

According to its 2024 annual report, Nanshan Zhishang’s annual UHMWPE fiber production capacity has reached 3,600 tons, with related robotics applications generating RMB 176 million in revenue, a 94.75% year-on-year surge. This high-strength, anti-creep, and wear-resistant material significantly enhances the precision and durability of robotic drive systems. For example, its “dexterous hand drive tendon ropes” for robots have overcome the fatigue fracture limitations of traditional metal materials, extending service life to 1.5 times that of international counterparts.

Industry-Academia-Research Integration: Tackling Core Technical Challenges

The collaboration’s innovation lies in creating a closed-loop system spanning “basic research–technical conversion–industrial application”:

Wuhan University’s Institute focuses on breakthroughs in robotics motion control algorithms and smart sensing systems.

Shouzhi Innovation acts as a conversion platform, turning lab achievements into mass-production solutions.

Nanshan Zhishang enables rapid scaling through production capabilities and material modification technologies.

Together, they are addressing three critical challenges in humanoid robotics materials:

Drive System Materials: Molecular chain orientation control technology for UHMWPE fiber ensures zero relaxation in drive components under prolonged high-frequency motion.

Bionic Skin Materials: Composite fabrics integrating tactile sensing and flexible protection overcome rigid sensor limitations.

Lightweight Structural Materials: Fiber-reinforced composite technology reduces robot skeleton weight by over 40% compared to aluminum alloys.

Nanshan Zhishang now possesses full-chain capabilities from fiber production to composite material molding, with products spanning over 20 high-value fields, including bulletproof gear, marine engineering, and robotics. With the robotics industry nearing mass production, its 3,600-ton capacity can meet demand for millions of humanoid robots, challenging the market dominance of global giants like Japan’s Toray and DSM of the Netherlands.

Trillion-Dollar Race: New Materials Reshape Robotics

The global humanoid robotics market is exploding, projected to reach $154 billion (≈RMB 1.1 trillion) by 2035, with a 70% CAGR. China’s market, valued at RMB 5 billion in 2023, is expected to hit RMB 300 billion by 2030, capturing 30% of global share. Key drivers include aging demographics, industrial automation, and policy support (e.g., China’s 14th Five-Year Plan for Robotics).

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Humanoid robots demand materials that balance lightweight design, strength, and flexibility. Critical materials include:

Energy Storage: Battery materials, separators, and thermal interface materials for power efficiency.

High-Performance Polymers: Nylon 66, PA6T, etc., for heat and stress resistance.

Lightweight Composites: Carbon fiber, UHMWPE, PEEK, and polyimide.

Precision Components: Optical-grade PMMA and polysulfone for insulation and stability.

Durable Coatings: Acrylic and methacrylate esters for enhanced durability.

China’s UHMWPE Fiber Landscape and Challenges

China’s UHMWPE fiber industry is rapidly expanding, with 2024 production capacity hitting 80,000 tons. Key players include Beijing Tongyizhong Advanced Materials, Jiangsu Jiujiujiu Technology, Sinopec Yizheng Chemical Fiber, Zhejiang Qianxilongxian Special Fiber, and Jiangsu Jingbang New Materials. Projects like Baotou Zhongyuan New Materials’ 10,000-ton fiber facility (slated for 2027) will further boost supply.

While applications in defense, marine, and robotics are driving demand (2024 consumption: ~60,000 tons), challenges persist in product consistency, production stability, and cost reduction for mid-to-high-end segments.

As domestic technology matures and policy support intensifies, UHMWPE fiber—a strategic material bridging civilian and military uses—is poised to redefine China’s role in the global robotics revolution.