Polymer matrix composites are finding increasing number of applications due to their high weight-saving potential as well as unique characteristics, such as high strength-to-density ratio, fatigue resistance, high damping factor, and freedom from corrosion. While many textbooks are available on the mechanics of polymer matrix composites, few cover their processing. Processing of Polymer Matrix Composites fills this gap. The book focuses on the major manufacturing processes used for polymer matrix composites and describes process details, process parameters and their effects on properties and process-induced defects, and analytical and experimental methods used for understanding process conditions. The book describes fibers, thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers, and interface characteristics that are important from the standpoint of both design and processing. It also emphasizes the applications of process fundamentals for both continuous fiber and short fiber polymer matrix composites. In addition the book considers quality inspection methods, tooling, and manufacturing costs and environmental and safety issues.

Polymer matrix composites are used extensively across a wide range of industries, making the design and development of effective manufacturing processes of great importance. Manufacturing techniques for polymer matrix composites (PMCs) provides an authoritative review of the different technologies employed in the manufacture of this class of composite. Following an introduction to composites and manufacturing processes, part one reviews the manufacturing of short fiber and nanoparticle based polymer matrix composites, with injection and compression molding examined in depth. Thermoplastic processing is the focus of part two. Sheet forming, fabric thermostamping, filament winding and continuous fiber reinforced profiles are investigated. Part three reviews thermoset processing. A survey of resin transfer molding follows, including vacuum-assisted and compression resin transfer molding. The pultrusion process is then considered, before the book concludes with an investigation into autoclave and out-of-autoclave curing processes in polymer matrix composites. With its distinguished editors and international team of expert contributors, Manufacturing techniques for polymer matrix composites (PMCs) is an essential guide for engineers and scientists working in the field of polymer matrix composites. Provides an authoritative review of the different technologies employed in the manufacture of polymer matrix composites Reviews the manufacturing of short fiber and nanoparticle-based polymer matrix composites, with injection and compression molding examined in depth Examines thermoplastic processing, sheet forming, fabric thermostamping, filament winding and continuous fiber reinforced profiles

Given such properties as low density and high strength, polymer matrix composites have become a widely used material in the aerospace and other industries. Polymer matrix composites and technology provides a helpful overview of these materials, their processing and performance.After an introductory chapter, part one reviews the main reinforcement and matrix materials used as well as the nature of the interface between them. Part two discusses forming and molding technologies for polymer matrix composites. The final part of the book covers key aspects of performance, including tensile, compression, shear and bending properties as well as impact, fatigue and creep behaviour.Polymer matrix composites and technology provides both students and those in industry with a valuable introduction to and overview of this important class of materials. Provides a helpful overview of these materials, their processing and performance incorporating naming and classification of composite materials Reviews the main reinforcement and matrix materials used as well as the nature of the interface between them including damage mechanisms Discusses forming and molding technologies for polymer matrix composites outlining various techniques and technologies

This excellent volume will serve as an indispensable reference and source book for process design, tool and production engineers in composite manufacturing. It provides the reader with a comprehensive treatment of the theory of machining as it applies to fiber reinforced polymer composites. It covers the latest technical advances in the area of machining and tooling, and discusses the applications of fiber reinforced polymer composites in the aircraft and automotive industries.

This book provides a comprehensive account of developments in the area of lightweight polymer composites. It encompasses design and manufacturing methods for the lightweight polymer structures, various techniques, and a broad spectrum of applications. The book highlights fundamental research in lightweight polymer structures and integrates various aspects from synthesis to applications of these materials. Features Serves as a one stop reference with contributions from leading researchers from industry, academy, government, and private research institutions across the globe Explores all important aspects of lightweight polymer composite structures Offers an update of concepts, advancements, challenges, and application of lightweight structures Current status, trends, future directions, and opportunities are discussed, making it friendly for both new and experienced researchers.

Composite Materials and Processing provides the science and technology of processing several composites using different processing methods, and includes collective information on the processing of common and advanced composite materials. It also weighs the advantages and disadvantages of various processing methods. This book is suitable for materia

The state of development of composite materials is quite unique in the scientific world with simultaneous advances being made both in their usage and basic understanding. The complexity and high technology required in manufacturing structural parts with these materials as well as the need for fundamental description of their processing and property characteristics necessitates a close col laboration between industrial and academic researchers. This col laboration has become significant not only in solving specific tech nical problems, but in providing a much needed supply of scientists with training and background focused on anticipated demand for further advances in composite usage. The fact that the transportation industry with its current international character has a vital interest in composite materials for weight savings applications has provided a strong incentive for extending these developments beyond national boundaries. An excel lent example of an established international venture is the building of the new generation commercial aircraft by the Boeing Company with composite parts manufactured by Aerita1ia in Italy. Accordingly, we organized a Joint U. S. -Italy Symposium on Composite Materials in Italy which was successfully held on June 15-19, 1981, under the primary sponsorship of NSF in the U. S. A. and CNR in Italy. The strong support we also received from industrial co-sponsors, both from Italy and the U. S. A. , as well as our respective academic insti tutions gave us confidence that we were addressing a timely and important area in Science and Engineering with a unique concept.