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Journal of Polymer & Composites Original Research Special issue

Polymers and Composites in the Design and Construction of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: A Comprehensive Technical Review

  1. Neeraj Kumar Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Engineering
  2. Sandeep Banerjee Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Engineering
  3. Ojas Bochare Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Engineering
  4. Honey Yadav Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Engineering
  5. Bharat Singh Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Engineering

Abstract

The emergence of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) over the last few years has mostly been made possible by breakthroughs in material science. This review is concerned with an overview of some of the polymers and composites that are being commonly used in drone manufacturing in recent times, especially in relation to the influence of material choice on drone performance and capability. It sheds light on the drastic change in the material composition of UAVs, where there has been an observable shift from aluminum to FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Polymers), specifically CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) and GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymers). These materials exhibit much better mechanical and fatigue properties than conventional metals such as aluminum. Properties like specific strength and specific modulus, among others, were investigated by the authors due to their relevance to structural endurance and handling. Beyond these performance attributes, the review highlights the importance of factors involving thermal management, electromagnetic interference, and environmental integrity as material selection factors. The review also covers different classes of UAVs, design considerations, and few major material fabrication methods used, namely: Wet lay-up, prepreg/autoclave, resin transfer molding, injection molding, and additive manufacturing. A decision model based on tradeoff between enhanced performance characteristics from high performance composite materials versus relatively low price for traditional engineering polymers is also offered. The article also includes future outlooks for new materials, like multi-functional nano composites, graphene filled polymers, self-healing matrix materials, and biopolymers.

Keywords

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