Advancements in Processing and Properties of Modified Functional Composites

Dear Colleagues,

Modified functional composites are critical in many emerging applications, including wearable electronics, human–machine interaction, soft robotics and smart textiles. These materials require not only mechanical flexibility and durability but also tailored functionalities such as conductivity, responsiveness and visual interactivity. Modification of the composite’s surface, interface or bulk matrix, whether chemical, physical or biological, has proven to be a key approach to achieve these properties. In parallel, the integration of dyeing and coloration technologies into functional composites offers new opportunities beyond aesthetics, such as anti-UV performance or other functionalities.

However, several challenges remain. Traditional modification methods may not provide sufficient control over interfacial properties, and the combination of dyeing with composite processing often affects mechanical performance and long-term stability. Furthermore, while flexible sensing and electronic skin concepts have advanced rapidly, the systematic understanding of how modification strategies and coloration influence the overall composite properties, including colorfastness and mechanical behavior, is still developing.

For these reasons, this Special Issue aims to publish high-quality original research and review articles focusing on the processing, modification and property optimization of functional composites. Special attention will be given to innovative modification strategies and coloration techniques that enable advanced applications. The topic is fully aligned with the scope of the Journal of Composites Science, which covers all aspects of composite materials from fundamental science to multifunctional applications. By showcasing recent advances that integrate composite technology with textile dyeing, soft sensing and electronic skin concepts, this Special Issue will expand the journal’s reach into emerging interdisciplinary fields.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Surface, interface and bulk modification strategies for enhanced composite functionality
• Design and processing of flexible, stretchable composite systems
• Mechanical properties, sensing properties, environmental durability and long-term stability of modified composites
• Structure–property relationships and multiscale characterization of functional composites
• Original research articles and reviews are welcome.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Shu Wang
Dr. Chenxing Xiang
Dr. Kaiyan Huang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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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.

• multifunctional composites
• composite modification
• flexible sensing
• electronic skin
• dyeing and coloration engineering
• surface modification techniques