Pickleball has become a popular and fashionable sports and leisure sport. It is a blend of tennis, badminton and table tennis, which can be called a "hybrid". In the next decade, some institutions predict that the pickleball market will reach $4 billion, with rackets accounting for 12% of the market share. The use of composite materials in pickleball rackets is an exciting boost that the composite industry is very concerned about.
Currently, most pickleball rackets feature a polymer core and fiberglass panel. The core part is made of thermoplastic polymer honeycomb material and is produced through a continuous in-line manufacturing process. Many manufacturers cover the core with a layer of nonwoven polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to enhance the bonding surface area (as shown in Figure 2). Fiberglass panels are applied to the core material through a number of different processes and stacking sequences, and many manufacturers are starting to differentiate themselves at this stage. As a rule, rackets are most commonly produced in a 0/90 weave of high-gauze fiberglass gauze, which is spread on the surface of the mold and impregnated with polyester resin. The choice of resin has a significant impact on the responsiveness (bouncing feel) and power of the racket. Once cured, these panels are bonded with compatible resins, often with thixotropic resins chosen to prevent resin flow and reduce voids. Manufacturers often add additives to increase the viscosity of the resin, resulting in better adhesion. Some suppliers provide fiberglass panels and cores, respectively, for bonding at a later stage in their facilities.
Pickleball is now becoming increasingly popular among young people around the world, and the average age of players is decreasing every year. Many celebrities are also embracing the sport. In this era dominated by digital entertainment, pickleball may help rekindle young people's interest in the outdoors. It is expected that the use of composite materials will drive technological advancements in the sport, making it more suitable for athletes and communities.
