Forming Process and Properties Characterization of High Performance Composites

Dear Colleagues,

The use of structural composites in high-performance applications (e.g., aerospace, automotive, sports, energy, defense) has increased significantly in recent years driven by the strong need of structure light weighting. The development of new advanced polymeric materials and structural fiber reinforcements have strongly supported the move to light weighting. However, there have several associated challenges, especially with regard to the success of achieving the complex geometrical shapes and features of composite components, as well as reducing the overall cycle time to control the related costs during the processing of composites. 

The major challenges that arise during processing are mainly due to the increased deformation rate and the viscoelastic nature of the resins influencing the cure cycle of polymeric composite materials. Such issues have been actively pursued by world-wide researchers at various size scales, including the fundamental scientific work on applied research at component level in high-performance applications. In this context, property characterization of a wide range of composite materials forms is a key area of research that is directly linked to the quality of composite components. The choice of accurate measurement techniques and correct relevant processing parameters can create a huge difference in the outcome of forming processes. Similarly, the analysis of modified and new forming processes to enhance the rate of production and maintain a consistent quality of components has been a major focus of researchers and academics to generate state-of-the-art knowledge.

The aim of this Special Issue is to provide an adequate platform to researchers to disseminate high-quality recent research findings of experimental, modeling, and simulation work related to forming processes and property characterization of high-performance composites. The Special Issue encompasses a wide variety of research work in terms of structural composite application, material forms and scales, nature of scientific work, technology readiness levels, etc.

Prof. Dr. Philippe Boisse
Dr. Muhammad Khan
Dr. Biao Liang
Guest Editors

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