The History of Composites

The History of Composites: People, Science, Technology and Society introduces the reader to key milestones in the discovery and technological development of composite materials, including their processes and applications. Sections give a “bird’s eye view” that surveys the basic concept of composites from ancient times right through to the crucial inventions of glass fibers and manmade plastics in the 1930’s. Further content explores the revolution of carbon fibers and their nano-descendants graphene and carbon nanotubes while also analyzing the dynamics of innovations to further illustrate how fundamental discoveries have led to the creation of new products or improved existing ones.

By presenting these fundamental discoveries, the authors hope to inspire both researchers and engineers in their quest to develop further innovations in composite materials in the future, including both their processes and applications.

• Provides an overview of the history of composites from ancient times to present time
• Presents a comprehensive breadth of topics, including history, materials, processes, applications, experimental characterization, and theoretical aspects
• Covers many examples of applications, e.g., aircrafts (military and civil), wind energy, automotive, sports, construction, and architecture as well as arts and design
• Discusses both international breakthroughs and global perspectives