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J. Compos. Sci.
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Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications
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Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications

A special issue of Journal of Composites Science (ISSN 2504-477X). This special issue belongs to the section "Composites Manufacturing and Processing".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2026 | Viewed by 3212

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Jiunn Jer Hwang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Health and Nutrition & Chemical Engineering, Army Academy, Chung-Li District, Taoyuan 320316, Taiwan
Interests: crystallization kinetics; polymer electrolytes; electrochemical sensing; biomimetic; antimicrobial coatings
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Research on functional composite materials is currently in a pivotal stage of rapid development. With their diverse properties and application potential, these materials hold a prominent position in the field of materials science. This Special Issue focuses on the latest advancements and challenges in the areas of green sustainability, smart functionalities, and high-performance applications of composite materials. It covers innovative topics such as sustainable material design, smart functional materials, high-performance solutions, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

The scope includes the design of biodegradable, recyclable, and environmentally friendly materials; the development of smart functional materials with self-sensing, self-healing, and environmentally responsive capabilities; and solutions for lightweight design, wear resistance, thermal management, and energy storage in high-performance applications. Additionally, this Special Issue highlights advanced processing techniques, such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), AI-assisted design, and nanotechnology, as well as multifunctional materials that simultaneously meet requirements for structural strength, dielectric properties, and hydrophobicity. In the biomedical field, this Special Issue will focus on innovations in antimicrobial properties, biocompatibility, and medical device applications.

We invite experts, researchers, and professionals working on functional composite materials to submit their latest research findings, contributing to the innovation and development of this exciting field.

Dr. Jiunn Jer Hwang
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Composites Science is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • sustainable materials
  • smart composite materials
  • self-healing materials
  • additive manufacturing technologies
  • nanocomposite materials
  • biocompatibility
  • lightweight and high-strength design

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 3880 KiB  
Article
Low-Velocity Impact Damage Behavior and Failure Mechanism of 2.5D SiC/SiC Composites
by Jianyong Tu, Xingmiao Duan, Xingang Luan, Dianwei He and Laifei Cheng
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080388 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 103
Abstract
Continuous SiC fiber-reinforced SiC matrix composites (SiC/SiC), as structural heat protection integrated materials, are often used in parts for large-area heat protection and sharp leading edges, and there are a variety of low-velocity impact events in their service. In this paper, a drop [...] Read more.
Continuous SiC fiber-reinforced SiC matrix composites (SiC/SiC), as structural heat protection integrated materials, are often used in parts for large-area heat protection and sharp leading edges, and there are a variety of low-velocity impact events in their service. In this paper, a drop hammer impact test was conducted using narrow strip samples to simulate the low-velocity impact damage process of sharp-edged components. During the test, different impact energies and impact times were set to focus on investigating the low-velocity impact damage characteristics of 2.5D SiC/SiC composites. To further analyze the damage mechanism, computed tomography (CT) was used to observe the crack propagation paths and distribution states of the composites before and after impact, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to characterize the differences in the micro-morphology of their fracture surfaces. The results show that the in-plane impact behavior of a 2.5D needled SiC/SiC composite strip samples differs from the conventional three-stage pattern. In addition to the three stages observed in the energy–time curve—namely in the quasi-linear elastic region, the severe load drop region, and the rebound stage after peak impact energy—a plateau stage appears when the impact energy is 1 J. During the impact process, interlayer load transfer is achieved through the connection of needled fibers, which continuously provide significant structural support, with obvious fiber pull-out and debonding phenomena. When the samples are subjected to two impacts, damage accumulation occurs inside the material. Under conditions with the same total energy, multiple impacts cause more severe damage to the material compared to a single impact. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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25 pages, 6538 KiB  
Article
Polymer–Filler Interactions in Graphite-Infused Polypropylene: Experimental Design, a Fundamental and Applied Study
by Rabindra Dharai, Yubaraj Chakraborty, Rabiranjan Murmu, Pragyan Senapati, Harekrushna Sutar and Debashis Roy
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(7), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9070351 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 521
Abstract
In this study, micrographite (μG)-reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites were fabricated using melt compounding, with μG contents varying from 3 to 15 wt%. The composites were evaluated for mechanical, electrical, and thermal performance, addressing a relatively underexplored area among carbon-based fillers. Tensile testing across [...] Read more.
In this study, micrographite (μG)-reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites were fabricated using melt compounding, with μG contents varying from 3 to 15 wt%. The composites were evaluated for mechanical, electrical, and thermal performance, addressing a relatively underexplored area among carbon-based fillers. Tensile testing across elongation speeds (10–50 mm/min) showed up to ~30% strength improvement at 6 wt% μG due to good dispersion and stress transfer, while ≥9 wt% led to agglomeration, reduced ductility, and increased melt resistance. SEM fractography confirmed matrix–filler debonding and brittle behavior at higher loadings, with ductility improving at higher elongation rates. A sharp drop in resistivity near 6 wt% indicated the formation of a conductive network, and thermal conductivity improved by nearly 80%. Taguchi optimization identified 12 wt% μG and 50 mm/min as optimal for tensile strength, with filler content having a stronger influence than testing speed. The novelty of this work lies in its integrated structure–property investigation across a broad μG range, offering a scalable, multifunctional PP composite system suitable for semi-structural, conductive, and thermal management applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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13 pages, 1877 KiB  
Article
Enhanced C3H6O and CO2 Sensory Properties of Nickel Oxide-Functionalized/Carbon Nanotube Composite: A Comprehensive Theoretical Study
by Evgeniy S. Dryuchkov, Sergey V. Boroznin, Irina V. Zaporotskova, Natalia P. Boroznina, Govindhasamy Murugadoss and Shaik Gouse Peera
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(6), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9060311 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 368
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) functionalized with metal oxides exhibit synergistic properties that enhance their performance across various applications, particularly in electrochemistry. Recent advancements have highlighted the potential of CNT–metal oxide heterostructures, with a specific focus on their electrochemical properties, which are pivotal for applications [...] Read more.
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) functionalized with metal oxides exhibit synergistic properties that enhance their performance across various applications, particularly in electrochemistry. Recent advancements have highlighted the potential of CNT–metal oxide heterostructures, with a specific focus on their electrochemical properties, which are pivotal for applications in sensors, supercapacitors, batteries, and catalytic systems. Among these, nickel oxide (NiO)-modified CNTs have garnered significant attention due to their cost-effectiveness, facile synthesis, and promising gas-sensing capabilities. This study employs quantum-chemical calculations within the framework of density functional theory (DFT) to elucidate the interaction mechanisms between CNTs and NiO. The results demonstrate that the adsorption process leads to the formation of stable CNT-NiO complexes, with detailed analysis of adsorption energies, equilibrium distances, and electronic structure modifications. The single-electron spectra and density of states (DOS) of the optimized complexes reveal significant alterations in the electronic properties, particularly the modulation of the energy gap induced by surface and edge functionalization. Furthermore, the interaction of CNT-NiO composites with acetone (C3H6O) and carbon dioxide (CO2) is modeled, revealing a physisorption-dominated mechanism. The adsorption of these gases induces notable changes in the electronic properties and charge distribution within the system, underscoring the potential of CNT-NiO composites for gas-sensing applications. This investigation provides a foundational understanding of the role of metal oxide modifications in tailoring the sensory activity of CNTs toward trace amounts of diverse substances, including metal atoms, inorganic molecules, and organic compounds. The findings suggest that CNT-NiO systems can serve as highly sensitive and selective sensing elements, with potential applications in medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring, thereby advancing the development of next-generation sensor technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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18 pages, 3522 KiB  
Article
Modeling the Manufacturing Process of Thin-Walled Composite Parts by Vacuum Infusion Using Controlled External Pressures
by Shun-Hsyung Chang, Igor Zhilyaev, Sergey Shevtsov and Natalie Snezhina
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(6), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9060268 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 632
Abstract
This study considered the molding process of a thin-walled composite structure, imported from a CAD model, with the requirements of the uniformity of the mechanical properties and wall thickness. The developed numerical process model, which includes both the vacuum infusion and post-infusion stages, [...] Read more.
This study considered the molding process of a thin-walled composite structure, imported from a CAD model, with the requirements of the uniformity of the mechanical properties and wall thickness. The developed numerical process model, which includes both the vacuum infusion and post-infusion stages, takes into account the entire complex of processes evolving in a spreading liquid resin, as well as in a porous preform. The controlled process parameters are the temperature and the magnitudes and times of pressure applied to the open surface of the preform and in the vacuum line. The low thickness of the preform walls and the fixation of its inner surface on an open composite mold allow the mechanical part of the problem to be simplified, thus considering only the preform deformation normal to the opened surface, which provides a significant reduction in the simulation time and the ability to effectively optimize the process. The examples associated with the three control modes considered here show that the presented model’s description of the process, with the toolkit for selecting the controlled parameters, eliminates critical situations such as the formation of dry spots, the premature blocking of the vacuum port, or the uneven distribution and insufficient amount of the reinforcing component in the preform. This is due to the appropriately described process dynamics up to the moment of a sharp increase in viscosity and the hardening of the resin. This approach additionally provides access to process parameters that would be inaccessible in a full-scale experiment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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15 pages, 2010 KiB  
Article
Study of the Physico-Chemical Properties of Injection-Molded Polypropylene Reinforced with Spent Coffee Grounds
by Mostapha Karaoui, Vincenzo Fiore, Zineb Elhamri, Samira Kharchouf, Mohammed Alami and Mohammed Assouag
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(6), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9060257 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 663
Abstract
This study investigates the use of spent coffee grounds (SCGs) as a biofiller in polypropylene (PP) composites, produced via injection molding, as a sustainable alternative to conventional materials. The effects of varying SCG content (1%, 5%, 7%, and 10% w/w) [...] Read more.
This study investigates the use of spent coffee grounds (SCGs) as a biofiller in polypropylene (PP) composites, produced via injection molding, as a sustainable alternative to conventional materials. The effects of varying SCG content (1%, 5%, 7%, and 10% w/w) on the flow behavior, thermal stability, mechanical properties, structural integrity, and morphology of the composites were systematically evaluated. Analyses using optical microscopy (OM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) revealed significant changes in morphology and structure with SCG addition. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed improved thermal stability with increasing SCG content. Mechanical characterization indicated an enhanced hardness and tensile modulus, a near-constant tensile strength, and a decreased toughness and elongation at break with increasing SCG content. Melt flow index (MFI) measurements confirmed suitable processing characteristics. Overall, the PP/SCG composites demonstrate promising performance regarding sustainability and mechanical properties, suggesting their viability as an alternative to traditional materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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13 pages, 628 KiB  
Article
Injection-Molded Jute Filler Composites Evaluated Against Stringent Requirements
by Savana Othman Mohammed, Alwand Osman, Faranak Bazooyar, Else-Marie Malmek, Thomas Koch Ecoist, Nowshir Fatima, Mikael Skrifvars and Pooria Khalili
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(6), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9060255 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 491
Abstract
This study investigates the mechanical, thermal, and liquid resistance properties of injection-molded composites made from recycled polypropylene (rPP) reinforced with jute fillers. Maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used as a compatibilizer to enhance filler–matrix interfacial bonding. Tensile, flexural, and Charpy impact tests, along [...] Read more.
This study investigates the mechanical, thermal, and liquid resistance properties of injection-molded composites made from recycled polypropylene (rPP) reinforced with jute fillers. Maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used as a compatibilizer to enhance filler–matrix interfacial bonding. Tensile, flexural, and Charpy impact tests, along with density measurements, heat deflection temperature (HDT) tests, and resistance to short-duration liquid contact, were conducted to evaluate the composites. Results indicate that the addition of jute powder significantly improved stiffness (Young’s modulus increased up to 233%) and thermal stability (HDT increased to 147 °C for rPP/J40/MAPP) while reducing impact toughness due to the brittle nature of jute fillers. MAPP-modified composites demonstrated enhanced tensile and flexural strength compared to unmodified counterparts, with tensile strength improving by approximately 23% for rPP/J30/MAPP. The composites exhibited excellent liquid resistance, showing no visible changes after exposure to various automotive and household fluids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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23 pages, 8320 KiB  
Review
Investigation of Phosphorus Dendrons and Their Properties for the Functionalization of Materials
by Cédric-Olivier Turrin, Valérie Maraval and Anne-Marie Caminade
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080382 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 195
Abstract
Dendrons, also named dendritic wedges, are a kind of molecular tree, having a branched structure linked to a functional core. The functional core can be used in particular for the functionalization of materials. Different types of dendrons are known, synthesized either by a [...] Read more.
Dendrons, also named dendritic wedges, are a kind of molecular tree, having a branched structure linked to a functional core. The functional core can be used in particular for the functionalization of materials. Different types of dendrons are known, synthesized either by a convergent process, from the external part to the core, or by a divergent process from the core to the external part. Polyphosphorhydrazone (PPH) dendrons are always synthesized by a divergent process, which enables a fine-tuning of both the core function and the external functions. They have been used for the functionalization of diverse materials such as silica, titanium dioxide, gold, graphene oxide, or different types of nanoparticles. Nanocomposites based on materials functionalized with PPH dendrons have been used in diverse fields such as catalysts, chemical sensors, for trapping pollutants, to support cell cultures, and against cancers, as will be emphasized in this review. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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