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Journal of Polymer & Composites Review Article Special issue

Polymers and others Advance Materials: A State-of-the-Art Review

  1. Ranjana Mishra Department of Applied Sciences, Bharati Vidyapeeth's College of Engineering
  2. Praveen Kumar Dwivedi* Department of Applied Sciences, Bharati Vidyapeeth's College of Engineering
  3. Sumit Chawla Department of Applied Sciences, Bharati Vidyapeeth's College of Engineering
  4. Saurabh Agrawal Department of Applied Sciences, Bharati Vidyapeeth's College of Engineering
  5. Amreeta Preetam Department of Applied Sciences, Bharati Vidyapeeth's College of Engineering
  6. Pooja Bhati Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women

Abstract

Developing emerging technologies requires pushing the boundaries of material science. Right now, conventional neat polymers simply do not last long enough in the field. They suffer from sudden mechanical failure, struggle with thermal instability, and throwaway disposal methods have created a massive environmental crisis. To tackle these exact issues, this review provides a critical evaluation of two rapidly growing solutions: sustainable bio-composites and self-healing polymer systems. Rather than offering a basic summary, we break down the actual mechanical trade-offs and healing efficiencies of both intrinsic and autonomic repair mechanisms (such as hollow fiber networks and microencapsulation). We also examine whether bio-based matrices like PHA, PCL, and PLA—alongside natural fiber reinforcements—are practically viable for real-world manufacturing. The paper evaluates the performance of these advanced materials across several demanding industries. Specific applications discussed include lightweight carbon-fiber parts for aerospace, bioresorbable medical stents, and the design of asymmetric supercapacitors for advanced electronics. Ultimately, getting these materials out of the lab and into the market remains incredibly difficult. By identifying the primary barriers to commercialization—like high production costs, emerging nanotoxicity concerns, and a total lack of unified testing standards—this review highlights the specific research gaps that engineers must close to achieve widespread industrial use.

Keywords

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