Mechanics, Reliability, and Design of Hybrid Composite Joints and Interfaces

Dear Colleagues,

The mechanical performance and reliability of composite structures are governed not only by the bulk materials but by the integrity of their joints and interfaces. This Special Issue aims to collect original research and critical reviews addressing experimental, numerical, and data-driven approaches to understand and design joints and interphases in advanced composites. Contributions are welcome across polymer-matrix, ceramic-matrix, cementitious, and metal-matrix systems, as well as bio-based and recycled composites.

Topics of interest include (but are not limited to):

• Processing and manufacturing of composite joints: thermoplastic welding (ultrasonic, induction, friction, laser), co-curing, adhesive bonding, and mechanical fastening.
• Interfacial architecture and surface modification, including bio-inspired and topologically interlocked designs.
• Nano- and micro-filler functionalization of interphases (graphene, silica, hydroxyapatite, CNTs, nanoclays).
• Characterization of static, cyclic, fatigue, creep, and impact behavior of joints.
• Modeling and simulation of joint mechanics—continuum, cohesive-zone, XFEM, phase-field, multiscale, and machine-learning-assisted methods.
• Fracture, delamination, and damage evolution across interfaces under multiaxial loading.
• Thermal, environmental, and chemical durability of composite joints, including UV, humidity, radiation, and cryogenic exposure.
• Residual stresses, cure kinetics, and process–structure–property correlations.
• Nondestructive and in situ evaluation (DIC, AE, X-ray CT, ultrasound, thermography).
• Reliability assessment, probabilistic design, and digital-twin frameworks for jointed composite structures.

The aim of this Special Issue is to create a cross-disciplinary platform linking mechanics, materials science, and manufacturing toward predictive and certifiable design of composite joints and interfaces.

Dr. Hamed Aghajani Derazkola
Guest Editor

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