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Journal of Polymer & Composites Review Article Special issue

Advanced Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: Processing, Nano-Modified Adhesive Technologies, Interfacial Engineering, Durability, and Structural Applications—A Comprehensive Review

  1. J. Faney Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
  2. M. Hemapriya Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai

Abstract

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are considered to be one of the most universal categories of advanced engineering materials owing to their unique properties such as outstanding strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, fatigue durability, and wide opportunities for design. Innovations in the fields of fiber reinforcement, polymer matrix system, composite manufacturing technologies, and nano-modified adhesives technology have greatly extended the range of applications of this type of materials in aerospace, automotive, marine, energy, biomedical, and civil engineering sectors. The current literature review provides an extensive analysis of recent advancements in FRP composites with special focus on manufacturing processes, nano-engineered adhesives, interfacial engineering, durability characteristics, and structural applications. In addition, this work includes critical analysis of the properties of various fiber reinforcement (carbon, glass, basalt, aramid, and novel natural fibers) and polymer matrix (thermosetting and thermoplastic) and their impact on the performance of composite. Recent advancements in manufacturing technologies (pultrusion, filament winding, resin transfer molding, additive manufacturing, automated fiber placement), in terms of microstructural properties and mechanical characteristics are analyzed. Special attention is given to nano-engineered adhesives including graphene, carbon nanotubes, nano-silica, and nanoclays. Moreover, the degradation pathways related to moisture, temperature, ultraviolet light, chemicals, and cyclic loading are studied in detail, along with the state-of-the-art characterization methods for interface evaluation. In addition, this review highlights the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning for the optimization of composite structures, defect detection, and assessment of their durability. Lastly, this paper identifies the gaps in the current research along with future challenges and directions related to biopolymers, recyclable composites, multifunctional materials, and smart health monitoring of composites.

Keywords

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