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154 articles for “lightweight structures”
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Polymer Matrix Characterization and Interfacial Engineering in Bamboo/Sisal/Chopped Mat Hybrid Fiber Composites
Abstract: The present investigation focuses on the characterization of polymer matrices and the interfacial behavior of bamboo, sisal, and chopped strand mat (CSM) fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. The work aims to understand how natural fibers influence the curing, thermal, and adhesion properties of hybrid composite systems. Experimental analyses were carried out using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to evaluate curing …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 123–135 Read article
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Machinability and Reliability Analysis of Al6063–Al2O3 Metal Matrix Composites Using Image-Based Flank Wear Evaluation
Abstract: This study explores the machinability and reliability characteristics of Al6063–Al2O3 metal matrix composites (MMCs) as analogues for polymer–metal hybrid composite systems, focusing on their potential use in lightweight structural and metal matrix composite-integrated applications. The composite specimens were fabricated through stir casting with 3% and 9% Al2O3 reinforcements, followed by mechanical characterization that confirmed significant enhancements in hardness and strength compared to unreinforced Al6063. Machining experiments were performed using a …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 264–290 Read article
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Experimental Investigation of Hybrid Natural Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites Using Banana and Sugar Palm Fibers
Abstract: This paper is a research study that examines the mechanical and morphological properties of hybrid natural fiber reinforced epoxy composites manufactured from banana fibers (BF) and sugar palm fibers (SPF). Because the use of sustainable, lightweight, and cost effective materials in engineering continues to grow, many engineers are looking at the possibility of utilizing natural fiber reinforced polymer composites as alternatives to traditional man-made fiber composites. Hybrid composite laminate samples …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 195–205 Read article
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AI-Driven Prediction of Mechanical and Thermal Properties in Polymer-Based Functionally Graded Composites
Abstract: The proposed architecture of the current paper is an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven model of forecasting mechanical and thermal aspects of polymer-based functionally-graded composites (FGCs). Traditional micromechanical and finite element models, which are practical in homogeneous composites, might not be able to account in nonlinear interaction that is caused by compositional gradient. To overcome the challenge, machine learning (ML) models like artificial neural network (ANN), support vectors regression (SVR), and gradient-boosted …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 70–89 Read article
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Deep Learning for Real-Time Monitoring and Defect Detection in Additive Manufactured Polymer Composites
Abstract: Additives Fiber-reinforced polymer composite ADDs have high utility in making lightweight structural components, but due to process-related defects (interlayer delamination and reinforcement stacking) the integrity of consolidation during extrusion-based deposition is frequently compromised. This paper has presented a physics-informed deep learning framework that is applicable to real-time measurements of reinforced thermoplastic composite fabrication. Multimodal sensing was provided with thermal gradient, optical morphology, and acoustics emission signals being used to assess …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 974–999 Read article
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AI-Driven Framework for Accelerating Polymer Nanocomposite Commercialization in Computational Materials Engineering
Abstract: The remarkable mechanical strength increased functional qualities, lightweight structure, and thermal stability of polymer nanocomposites have prompted modern materials research to prioritize their rapid commercialization. Advanced materials can be created by adding nanoscale fillers such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, silica, and metal oxides to polymer matrices. These materials have applications in biomedical engineering, aerospace, electronics, packaging, and automobile manufacture. Research and development of polymer nanocomposites has traditionally relied on costly …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 1–19 Read article
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Development and implementation of Solar-Thermoelectric Hybrid Energy Harvester
Abstract: In today’s consumer-oriented and technology-driven market, researchers are increasingly emphasizing the need to harvest energy from ambient and renewable sources to support sustainable power generation and to minimize dependence on conventional energy resources such as batteries and fossil-fuel-based electricity. The rising deployment of portable electronics, wireless sensor networks, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices has created an urgent demand for compact, low-power, long-life, and maintenance-free energy solutions. In many real-world …
Published in International Journal of Machine Systems and Manufacturing Technology · Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2026 Read article
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Tensile and Flexural Strength Quantification of Basalt-Reinforced Epoxy Composites Fabricated via Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding at Varied Fiber Volume Fractions Description
Abstract: Fiber-reinforced polymer composites have been identified to possess excellent properties that render them very suitable in the aerospace, automotive, marine and renewable energy sectors. However, for the industrially scalable vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) process, optimization of mechanical properties of basalt epoxy composites must be achieved systematically, which means that the effect of the fibre volume fraction(VF) on the mechanical properties of the composite needs to be quantified for different …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 4, 2026 Read article
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Multi-Layer Aluminum–Polymer Hybrid Structures for Improved Automotive Impact Performance
Abstract: Layered metal–polymer hybrid laminates have emerged as promising candidates for lightweight automotive structures requiring high impact resistance and structural reliability. In this study, aluminum/glass–epoxy hybrid laminates were fabricated using a symmetric stacking sequence through hot compression molding to evaluate their mechanical and energy absorption performance. Density analysis revealed an average measured density of 2.34 g/cm³, closely matching the theoretical value of 2.36 g/cm³, with a deviation of approximately 1.02%, indicating …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 42–53 Read article
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Design and Performance Evaluation of PLA-based Umbrella Wheels for Stair-Climbing Robotic Applications
Abstract: Staircase climbing robots require a complex design capable of navigating various stair configurations. A crucial component of such robots is the wheel mechanism. This paper focuses on the umbrella wheel mechanism and its application in staircase climbing robots. In this study, a PLA–based umbrella wheel structure is developed and fabricated using fused deposition modeling (FDM) for application in stair-climbing robots. The umbrella wheel geometry enables transformation from a circular rolling …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 808–824 Read article
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Eco-Design Approaches in Modern Machine Tool Construction
Abstract: In the contemporary landscape of manufacturing, sustainability is no longer optional; it is imperative. Within this context, machine tool construction presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities: these heavy, energy-intensive pieces of capital equipment operate across long lifecycles, consume substantial embodied energy and materials, and eventually require disposal or remanufacture. This study explores eco-design approaches tailored specifically to modern machine tools, covering the full lifecycle from material sourcing and …
Published in Trends in Machine design · Vol. 12, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 23–29 Read article
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Leveraging Origami for Space Efficiency: A Comprehensive Review of Its Role in Aerospace
Abstract: Originating in East Asia, origami has developed beyond its original artistic medium to play a significant role in the design of adjustable systems, especially in the sector of space engineering. Due to tight weight and space constraints, these structures which are essential for aviation and spacecraft make effective use of the geometric qualities of origami. This study provides a summary of recent research, emphasizing the benefits, technical applications, and uses …
Published in Journal of Aerospace Engineering & Technology · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2024 · pp. 43–50 Read article
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Bio-Inspired FGPCs for Biomedical and Structural Applications
Abstract: Bio-inspired functionally graded polymer composites (FGPCs) represent a new class of smart materials that use gradient material distributions to enhance mechanical and biological properties, mimicking natural systems like bones, shells, and plant stems. FGPCs exhibit smooth gradient distributions across interfaces, which improves biocompatibility and reduces the risk of failure under complex loading and environmental conditions. In this study, bio-inspired FGPCs were designed, fabricated, and validated using a combined experimental and …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 456–481 Read article
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Fabrication and Mechanical Characterization of Hybrid Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites using Ferromagnetic and Graphite Fillers
Abstract: The past few years have seen a lot of interest in the creation of hybrid natural fiber composites because of their lightweight properties, environmental friendliness and their potential use in structures. The hybrid composite laminates in the current study were produced by the hand lay-up process by blending the natural fibers with the functional filler materials. Three types of composite structures were created and these are Natural Composite Material (NCM), …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 498–511 Read article
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LIDAR - Equipped Proximity Sensing UAV's Compact Drone
Abstract: The LIDAR-Equipped UAV's Compact Drone is an innovative unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that combines the power of LIDAR technology with a lightweight and agile design. This abstract highlights the capabilities and potential applications of the compact drone, equipped with a LIDAR sensor, for precision data acquisition and advanced aerial mapping. The core feature of the LIDAR-Equipped UAV's Compact Drone is its integration of a miniaturized LIDAR sensor, enabling high-precision distance …
Published in International Journal of Robotics and Automation in Mechanics · Vol. 1, Issue 1, 2023 · pp. 1–10 Read article
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Automotive Aluminium Advancements: Driving Efficiency and Performance in Manufacturing
Abstract: Due to the special qualities of aluminum and its alloys, aluminum is one of the most versatile materials used in engineering and construction. Its electrical and thermal characteristics are good, and it reflects light and heat well. It is highly corrosion-resistant under many service conditions. Besides, it is soft, ductile and possesses lower specific gravity. It can be cast and worked into almost any form and can be given a …
Published in International Journal of Manufacturing and Production Engineering · Vol. 1, Issue 2, 2023 · pp. 20–24 Read article
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Basalt Fiber, Palm Fiber, and Seashell Powder Reinforced Hybrid Epoxy Composites: A Mechanical Characterization
Abstract: This study investigates epoxy-based composites reinforced with basalt fiber, palm fiber, and seashell powder fabricated via hand lay-up. Mechanical characterization included tensile, flexural, hardness, and impact testing, supported by ANOVA and TOPSIS analyses. The Basalt-Epoxy composite has the highest mechanical strength among the systems under investigation, with a tensile strength of 275 N/mm² and a yield stress of around 215 N/mm². Compared to Palm-Epoxy composite, which has the lowest mechanical …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 1565–1575 Read article
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Multifunctional Car Covering System
Abstract: Traditional car covers are heavy, consume much space, and are not suitable for today’s advanced generation. They fail to meet the evolving necessities of modern vehicle protection. Often, they are operated manually, offer minimal security, and lack advanced features such as automated deployment or integrated maintenance systems. To address these problems and limitations, this project introduces an innovative and multifunctional smart car covering system powered by a wiper-like mechanism and …
Published in Journal of Automobile Engineering and Applications · Vol. 13, Issue 2, 2026 Read article
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Mechanical Performance Assessment of Hybrid FRP Laminates with Carbon Fiber Core Using Experimental and Numerical Approaches
Abstract: The high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance and design flexibility of Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have attracted considerable attention in aerospace, automotive and structural applications. This work presents an experimental and finite element study on the tensile and flexural behavior of epoxy-based hybrid FRP laminates. Five laminate configurations were manufactured, including a unidirectional carbon fiber laminate and four hybrid laminates, Kevlar–Carbon–Kevlar (K/C/K), Glass–Carbon–Glass (G/C/G), Kevlar–Carbon–Glass (K/C/G), and Glass–Carbon–Kevlar (G/C/K). For all …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 4, 2026 Read article
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Design and Development of a Mini Drone for Educational Applications
Abstract: This paper describe the complete process of designing, building, and testing a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), normally referred to as a drone. The plan combines key concept from aerodynamics, electronics, control engineering, and embedded programming to produce a functional sample. The drone was developed using trivial structural materials and affordable components, including brushless DC motors, electronic speed controller (ESCs), a flight controller, various sensors, and a lithium-polymer (Li-Po) battery. …
Published in Journal of Aerospace Engineering & Technology · Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2026 Read article