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87 articles for “strength-to-weight ratio”
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Multi-Objective Optimization of Polymer-Based Functionally Graded Composites for Lightweight Structures
Abstract: Functionally graded composites (FGCs) improve lightweight structural performance by allowing material properties to change smoothly across a component. Polymer-based FGCs (P-FGCs), in particular, are gaining prominence in aerospace, automotive, and biomedical industries due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, tunability, and ease of processing. However, optimizing these materials for lightweight structural applications requires addressing conflicting design objectives, such as maximizing stiffness while minimizing weight or enhancing thermal resistance while maintaining manufacturability. …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 961–973 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 Validation of an Artificial Intelligence-Driven Digital Twin for Real-Time Monitoring and Control in Polymer Composite Manufacturing
Abstract: Polymer Matrix Composites (PMCs) have become indispensable in high-performance sectors such as aerospace and automotive engineering, offering exceptional strength-to-weight ratios that outperform traditional metals in many demanding applications. However, the reliability of manufacturing PMCs via Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) is frequently undermined by stochastic process variabilities. Unpredictable fluctuations in thermal history, preform permeability, resin rheology, and ambient conditions often lead to some defects; namely voids, dry spots, and incomplete …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 224–233 Read article
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Design and Analysis of Engine Mount Bracket to Enhance the Crash Performance of the Engine Mounting System
Abstract: The gradual evolution of automobile industries led to rise in the competition in providing the customer with quality while riding and comfort. This compelled the designers of each component to pay close attention towards the production of high-quality components. In the present scenario of the engine mount bracket designing, the dominant parameters like design change and material change play a crucial role. In the current generation of automobiles, the chances …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 11, Issue 8, 2023 · pp. 122–128 Read article
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Quantifying Damage Evolution in Fiber-reinforced Composites Using Fracture Mechanics
Abstract: By evaluating the evolution of damage, such as cracks or delamination, within the material over time or under various loading situations, damage evolution in fiber-reinforced composites can be characterized using fracture mechanics. Fracture mechanics offers a framework for understanding and projecting the behavior of materials that already have damage or flaws. Since they have a high strength-to-weight ratio and unique mechanical qualities, fiber-reinforced composites are essential in many branches of …
Published in International Journal of Fracture Mechanics and Damage Science · Vol. 1, Issue 1, 2023 · pp. 26–32 Read article
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Crystal Engineering Strategies for Tailoring Mechanical Properties of Structural Materials
Abstract: Crystal engineering has emerged as a promising approach for designing materials with tailored mechanical properties, enabling advancements in various fields such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. This review examines the diverse strategies employed in crystal engineering to manipulate the mechanical behavior of structural materials. One key strategy involves controlling the crystal structure at the atomic level through techniques such as alloying, doping, and phase transformations. Alloying introduces foreign atoms into …
Published in International Journal of Crystalline Materials · Vol. 1, Issue 1, 2024 · pp. 01–06 Read article
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A Review of Recent Advancements in the Field of Friction Stir Welding of Dissimilar Joints Made of Aluminium and Magnesium
Abstract: Friction stir welding (FSW) stands at the forefront of welding technology, offering a promising avenue for joining dissimilar metals like aluminum and magnesium. These metals, renowned for their exceptional properties such as ductility, thermal conductivity, low density, and impressive weight-to-strength ratios, find wide utility across numerous industrial sectors. However, traditional fusion welding methods often struggle to effectively join aluminum and magnesium due to their disparate physical and chemical characteristics. FSW …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 12, Issue 1, 2024 · pp. 134–142 Read article
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Novel Catalytic Strategies for Reducing Residual Stresses and Improving Surface Quality in Machined Ceramic Materials
Abstract: To prepare for material cutting and utilize utility-specific edges, it’s crucial to understand the inherent brittleness of ceramics. This brittleness limits the forming methods available and hinders achieving dimensional accuracy and precision through conventional machining techniques. The fabrication of composite materials is becoming increasingly significant, particularly in technical fields like the automotive industry, where they are used to manufacture engine connecting rods, propeller shafts, brake discs, and more. The machining …
Published in Journal of Catalyst & Catalysis · Vol. 11, Issue 2, 2024 · pp. 01–07 Read article
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An Overview of The Impact of Reinforcement on Mechanical and Thermal Characteristics of Aluminum Alloy Composites
Abstract: Aluminum is utilized extensively in the domains of aerospace, electronic technology, electric module packing, automotive body structure, solar and wind energy management, and so on because of its better potential for weight reduction. Strength of aluminum is very less so application is limited where high strength is needed. Aluminum alloy which have greater potential for weight reduction as well as high strength to weight ratio have ability to overcome these …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 1, 2025 · pp. 240–249 Read article
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Machinability of Metal Matrix Composites using Wire Electric Discharge Machining: A Review
Abstract: Metal Matrix composites [MMCs] are increasingly being applied in the automotive and aerospace industries as high-performance substitutes for traditional materials. Due to these properties, namely, high strength-to-weight ratio, outstanding fracture toughness, and low density, a vast array of uses is feasible. We can control the properties of MMCs directionally as well, which makes them the perfect choice for military uses and marine and sports equipment. The machining of MMCs plays …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 1, 2025 · pp. 303–311 Read article
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Evaluation of Impact Strength and Hardness for Polymer Matrix Composites with Steel, Carbon and Glass Reinforcements for Automotive Applications
Abstract: Polymer matrix composites (PMCs) play a crucial role in a wide range of engineering submissions, owing to their impressive strength-to-weight ratio and customizable mechanical properties. This research focuses on examining how PMCs, enhanced with different materials, specifically carbon fibres, glass fibres, and steel fibres, behave when subjected to dynamic and static loading conditions. The study involves creating three distinct types of PMC specimens, each reinforced with one of the mentioned …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 1, 2025 · pp. 738–748 Read article
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The Role of Composite Materials in Electric Vehicles: Enhancements in Performance, Safety, and Efficiency
Abstract: Individuals outside the manufacturing industry may not be familiar with the remarkable characteristics of composite materials, which include an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and versatility. Composites lie at the crossroads of the automotive sector particularly in the electric vehicles (EVs). Much as this paper sought to discuss composites rich contribution to the EV technology, this paper deems it useful in the context of light weighting, battery and housing, and the …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 296–310 Read article
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Automotive Plastics and Polymer Composites: A Road Map for Future Mobility of Electric Vehicles
Abstract: The automotive industry is in the process of achieving a major shift toward green vehicles faster than ever with the heightened demand for energy efficient products, namely EVs. This evolution is closely linked with use of such composite materials like plastics and polymer composites. Lithium manganates and other similar materials provide extraordinary benefits such as lightweight, high density energy storage capability, and affordable to manufacture. Due to its advantages in …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 378–392 Read article
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Optimizing Vehicle Structures Using Functionally Graded Materials of Aluminum and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites
Abstract: This article investigates the optimization of vehicle structures through application of functionally graded materials (FGMs), specifically aluminium and carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. Such materials, known as FGMs, are characterized by spatial variations in composition and structure designed to improve so-called performance attributes. For the purposes of this research, the material properties of aluminium and CFRP composites are taken to be randomly distributed in thickness direction of a FGM …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 478–489 Read article
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Investigation, Fabrication and Testing of Spur Gear Using Composite Material
Abstract: Composite materials constitute one of the favorable, efficacious material zones for tomorrow’s sustainable future through identification of materials with higher strength to weight ratio. A composite material is combination of two or more different materials with varied qualities that work together to create a material that is better than the sum of its parts. Therefore, finding some alternative material for various mechanical applications to accelerate the Indian composite industry is …
Published in Journal of Experimental & Applied Mechanics · Vol. 16, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 1–8 Read article
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Analysis of a Battery Pack Module for a Formula Student Car
Abstract: This research aims to evaluate the development of a high-voltage accumulator system that meets established standards of safety and operation. It examines key components, protocols, and techniques used in its creation while assessing performance in electronic cooling and structural integrity. Polymers, serving as electrical insulators and flame retarders, have found an interesting application in EV battery packs. This study focuses on polycarbonate materials' ability to withstand thermal and structural loads …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2025 · pp. 320–339 Read article
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Development of Lightweight Chassis and Efficient Drivetrain for Formula Student Applications
Abstract: The chassis and drivetrain of a Formula Student vehicle are designed, analyzed, and optimized in this research study with an emphasis on manufacturability, performance, and safety. The project emphasizes the use of advanced engineering tools such as SolidWorks for computer-aided design (CAD) and ANSYS for structural analysis to evaluate the chassis under various dynamic conditions. The primary objective is to ensure that the driver remains safe inside the cockpit while …
Published in Journal of Automobile Engineering and Applications · Vol. 12, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 1–17 Read article
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Effect of Welding Factors on Nugget Size of Polymer-Metal Composite Sheets Using Computational Methods
Abstract: Resistance spot welding (RSW) is a vital technique for joining materials in industries like automotive and aerospace. This study extends the application of RSW to polymer-metal composite sheets by developing 2D axisymmetric, thermo-electro-mechanical coupled model in ANSYS. The focus is on analyzing the temperature distribution, nugget formation, and parameter optimization in hybrid composite sheets, emphasizing the unique challenges posed by polymers' thermal and electrical properties. These properties differ significantly from …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 612–623 Read article
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Firefly Algorithm–Based Optimization of Processing Parameters for Enhanced Performance of Polymer Composite Materials
Abstract: Polymer composite materials are extensively used in aerospace, automotive, and oil & gas applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and design flexibility. However, achieving optimal mechanical and thermal performance strongly depends on precise control of processing parameters such as curing temperature, energy consumption, and material utilization. Conventional trial-and-error approaches often lead to excessive energy usage, non-uniform curing, and sub-optimal composite properties. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 90–107 Read article
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Interfacial Bonding and Performance of Polymer-Based CFRP Composites in Externally Applied Configurations
Abstract: Polymer-based carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are widely used for externally bonded strengthening and retrofitting applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and adaptability to existing structures. In such systems, overall performance is governed not only by the fiber–matrix interaction within the laminate, but more critically by the polymer adhesive layer and its interaction with the substrate. Polymer chemistry, interfacial bonding mechanisms, processing conditions, and environmental exposure collectively influence …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 952–966 Read article