Polymers are composed of very large molecules formed by a combination of different monomers (smaller and simpler molecules), which can be natural or synthetic. Polymers are the basis of many ...

Polymer matrix composites (PMCs) are made by reinforcing a polymer-based matrix with glass, carbon, or aramid fibers. PMCs are classified into thermosetting and thermoplastic resins based on the type ...

Composites are materials composed of at least two distinct phases (for example carbon fibers in a polymer matrix) in a defined geometric relationship, which are constructed in such a manner that the ...

Polymer matrix composites (PMCs) exhibit impressive stiffness and strength properties that are commonly attributed to the reinforcing fibers. However, for many important mechanical properties, the ...

The life cycle of plastics and other materials used for engineering begins with the extraction of raw materials, followed by the synthesis and processing of the polymer building blocks, which are ...

The class of materials known as ceramic matrix composites, or CMCs, shows considerable promise for providing fracture-toughness values similar to those for metals such as cast iron. Two kinds of ...

Using novel theoretical and modeling tools such as finite element analysis can greatly accelerate widespread applications in many areas of nanotechnology. Polymer reinforcement using fillers is a ...