Advanced Polymer Composites

Discover what constitutes a composite material, how a composite is made, when a composite is best for a given application, how a composite material or structure responds to a thermal or mechanical load, and how to design a polymer composite that meets a set of property requirements. A general reference book for practising scientists and engineers who have an interest in composites, polymers or smart materials - a must for libraries or major companies, research institutions, government laboratories and universities. An excellent textbook for graduate students and third-or-fourth year undergraduates in materials science and engineering polymer science and plastics engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering and chemical engineering. This book provides an excellent introduction to the basic principles of composite materials, including the classical lamination theory. In addition, recent developments in polymer composites have been included with full references, as well as coverage of several advanced subjects related to structural applications of composites. While current books generally contain little information about new forms of composites, including hybrids and textile structural composites (e.g., 2-D and 3-D woven or braided materials), this book includes in-depth discussions for their elastic constants, strength and failure, impact and damage resistance, and damping behaviour. Contents Include: Reinforcements and matrix resins, prediction of elastic constants and strength, fracture behaviour (including delamination), impact response, interface and interphases, fatigue, vibration, and damping analysis of polymer composites, recent advancements in manufacturing (emphasis on new thermoplastic processing techniques and strategies for improving manufacturing reliability of thermosets composites), intelligent (smart) composites and structures, polymer composites for automotive applications, recycling.