Boeing opened its research and technology center, which is devoted to current and next-generation technology development, in North Charleston, S.C. The 104,000-square-foot Boeing Research & Technology-South Carolina center will lead the company's research and development efforts in areas of advanced manufacturing with a focus on composite fuselage and propulsion systems production.

The state-of-the-art facility includes lab spaces where scientists and engineers research and develop technologies in advanced production systems; nondestructive evaluation and inspection; production analytics and advanced test systems; structural repair technologies; electromagnetic effects; chemical technology; and composite fabrication and materials. The center also includes two autoclaves, which are used to cure parts made from composite materials; a paint booth with automation capabilities; and a clean room to combine composite layers together.