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38 articles for “Matrix cracking”
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Assessment of Matrix Cracking and Fiber Breakage in Hybrid Composite Materials.
Abstract: Hybrid composite materials, combining two or more distinct fiber or matrix constituents, have emerged as advanced structural solutions for aerospace, automotive, marine, and civil engineering applications. However, their complex microstructure makes them susceptible to multiple interacting damage mechanisms, particularly matrix cracking and fiber breakage. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of these damage modes, emphasizing their initiation, evolution, and combined effects on the mechanical integrity of hybrid composites. Matrix cracking …
Published in International Journal of Fracture Mechanics and Damage Science · Vol. 3, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 1–5 Read article
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AI-Driven Topology Optimization of Woven Fiber-Reinforced Composite Chassis Structures for Electric Vehicles Under Crash Loading
Abstract: The structural design of an electric vehicle (EV) chassis represents a unique engineering challenge to achieve minimal weight while meeting occupants' safety requirements during high-energy crash conditions without compromise to the battery housing's integrity or the geometrical constraints of the electric powertrain package. In this paper, a single framework is proposed to integrate physics-based artificial intelligence (AI) surrogate models using PINNs, CNN-accelerated topology optimization, and FEA to design woven fiber-reinforced …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 72–89 Read article
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Influence of Alkali Treatment on the Tensile Properties of The Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite
Abstract: In this study, the effect of alkali treatment on the tensile strength of the hibiscus fiber, gongura fiber, and treated madar fiber-reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite (PMC) is studied. The Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) solution is utilized for madar fiber treatment. The traditional hand layup methodology was used for fabrication. The influence of tensile property control variables such as duration of fiber treatment, concentration of NaOH for treatment, and proportion of fiber …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 4, 2025 · pp. 28–34 Read article
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Fracture Analysis of Laminated composite plates using Extended Finite Element Method: A Review
Abstract: Laminated composite plates are used in aerospace, automotive, and marine industries. They feature great durability against fatigue, a high strength-to-weight ratio, and mechanical attributes that may be altered. However, they are prone to fracture and delamination under complex loading, requiring accurate fracture analysis for structural integrity. Traditional finite element methods (FEM) need extensive mesh refinement for modelling crack propagation which increases the computational costs. The Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM) …
Published in International Journal of Fracture Mechanics and Damage Science · Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 16–25 Read article
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Comprehensive Review of Composite Materials: Classification, Manufacturing Methods, Mechanical Behavior, Failure Modes, and Emerging Applications
Abstract: Composite materials have emerged as one of the most significant classes of engineered materials due to their ability to deliver high strength to weight ratios, enhanced durability, and tailored multifunctionality. Over the past two decades, rapid progress in polymer chemistry, advanced reinforcement architectures, additive manufacturing, and automated fabrication has expanded the applicability of composites across aerospace, automotive, biomedical, civil, and renewable energy sectors. This paper provides a comprehensive review of …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 923–939 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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High-Velocity Impact Response of CFRP and Hybrid Composites: A Comprehensive Review on Ballistic Resistance and Damage Mechanisms
Abstract: This review consolidates recent advances in the study of high-velocity impact response of carbon fiber reinforced polymer and hybrid composites. Carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites are widely applied in aerospace, automotive, and defense due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and durability. However, their susceptibility to impact damage such as delamination, matrix cracking, and fiber breakage limits their performance under dynamic loading. To overcome these challenges, researchers have explored reinforcement …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 100–122 Read article
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A Review on Integrated Acoustic Emission and Piezoelectric Sensing for Real-Time Damage Characterization of Polymer Composite-Enhanced Concrete: Advances, Challenges, and Future Perspective
Abstract: Polymer composite reinforced concrete has been identified as an efficient material system that can enhance the mechanical properties, durability, and service life of modern structures. The combination of fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs), polymer modifiers, and hybrid composite reinforcements increases structural effectiveness. However, these systems are still vulnerable to damage processes, including matrix cracking, fiber breaking, interfacial debonding, and delamination. Thus, there is a need for structural health monitoring (SHM) strategies …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 930–939 Read article
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AI-Integrated Graphene-Modified Polymer Interfaces for Real-Time Crack Detection and Autonomous Healing in Smart Concrete Structures
Abstract: This study presents the design and development of a graphene-reinforced multifunctional polymer composite interface engineered for structural reinforcement, self-sensing, and autonomous healing applications in cementitious systems. A thermosetting polymer matrix embedded with graphene nanoplatelets (0.25–1.5 wt.%) was developed to establish a conductive polymer nano-composite network. Electrical characterization confirmed a distinct percolation threshold at ~0.6–0.8 wt.%, beyond which a sharp increase in conductivity was observed due to the formation of interconnected …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 30–42 Read article
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Experimental Exploration of Crack and Damage Dynamics of Hybrid FRP Nano Composites
Abstract: Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have become essential materials in modern engineering structures because of their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and adaptability in design. Among different fracture modes, Mode I interlaminar fracture where cracks propagate under tensile opening stresses is one of the most critical forms of damage in layered composites. Since delamination occurs within the matrix-rich regions between plies, improving the matrix properties plays a key role in enhancing …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 220–232 Read article
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IoT-Based Structural Health Monitoring and Damage Detection in Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite Structures
Abstract: Applications of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite in the aerospace, civil infrastructure and renewable energy systems are increasing due to the fact that the composite possesses high ratio of strength to weight and can resist corrosion. However, processes of internal damages such as the cracking of the matrix, delamination and fiber fracture, are likely to take place without being visible on the surface and therefore a periodic check of the structure …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 1076–1100 Read article
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Performance Evaluation of Concrete with Binary and Ternary Blends of Fly Ash, Silica Fume, and Fiber Reinforcement
Abstract: This study evaluates the effect of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) as a partial replacement for cement on the mechanical properties of concrete, focusing on compressive and split tensile strength. Concrete mixes were prepared with GGBS replacement levels of 0%, 25%, and 50% and subjected to different curing methods, including water curing, steam curing, and conceal curing. These curing methods were selected to investigate their impact on hydration, strength …
Published in Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management · Vol. 15, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 40–45 Read article
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Microbially Modified Sustainable Cementitious Composites Using Industrial Ash Fillers
Abstract: The growing demand for sustainable, durable construction materials has driven the development of bio-engineered cementitious composites incorporating industrial by-products and self-healing mechanisms. This study investigates a microbially modified cementitious composite that integrates industrial ash fillers with bacteria-based self-healing technology to enhance mechanical performance and microstructural integrity while reducing cement consumption. Cement was partially replaced with industrial ash at 20%, 30%, and 40% replacement levels, and a uratolytic bacterial strain (Bacillus …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 331–350 Read article
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Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) as Composite Material in Pavement
Abstract: Conventional bituminous pavements are extensively utilized across India, yet they face challenges such as limited impact resistance, low tensile strength, and brittleness compared to concrete alternatives. Despite concrete's superior strength and durability, it exhibits deficiencies in ductility, fatigue resistance, and ability to withstand substantial deformations. This research delves into the feasibility of fiber-reinforced concrete as a composite material for pavements, with a primary goal of extending the service life of …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 12, Issue 4, 2024 · pp. 137–143 Read article
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Comprehensive Study on the Mechanical And Tribological Response of Waste Tyre Rubber–Natural Fiber Hybrid Epoxy Composites
Abstract: Research into the mechanical and tribological characteristics of Prosopis juliflora-fiber reinforced epoxy-matrix composites with recycled tyre rubber particles is the focus of this investigation. Making use of old tire rubber and bio-reinforcing with fibers from the common invasive plant Prosopis juliflora are the goals of the two-reinforcement technique. The end goal is to produce long-lasting, cost-effective engineered composite materials with improved performance. A constant epoxy resin matrix was used to …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 4, 2026 Read article
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Study on Partial Replacement of Cement with Pinus Fiber and Nano Silica in M30 Concrete Paver Blocks: A Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-Cement Composite Approach
Abstract: This study investigates the partial replacement of cement in M30 grade concrete paver blocks using nano silica and Pinus fiber, with a primary focus on mechanical performance, sustainability, and long-term durability and promoting sustainability. Portland cement, a major contributor to global CO₂ emissions, can be partially substituted using supplementary materials to create eco-efficient construction solutions. Nano silica, due to its high pozzolanic reactivity and ultrafine size, improves the microstructure and …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 63–76 Read article
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Mechanical Characterization of Kevlar 49 and Pina Fiber Hybrid Composites
Abstract: The pursuit of sustainable yet high-performance materials has accelerated research into hybrid composites that combine synthetic and natural fibers. This study investigates the fabrication and characterization of a Kevlar 49/Pina fiber hybrid composite using epoxy resin as the matrix. Kevlar 49, known for its exceptional tensile strength and energy absorption, was employed as the face sheet material, while Pina fiber, a biodegradable reinforcement extracted from pineapple leaves, was incorporated as …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 301–316 Read article
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Fracture Analysis of FRP Composites under Thermo-Mechanical Loads for Different Geometry Cutouts
Abstract: Fiber-reinforced composites (FRPs) are used extensively in structural and non-structural components of the aerospace and automotive industries. To utilize these materials for structural applications, it is necessary to understand the fracture behavior of the material. In the present investigation of carbon fiber laminates, studies were carried out to understand the fracture toughness characteristics of the carbon fiber laminates with mechanical, thermal, and thermo-mechanical loadings of modes I, II, and III. …
Published in International Journal of Fracture Mechanics and Damage Science · Vol. 3, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 1–10 Read article
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High-Performance Aluminum Matrix Composites Reinforced with Graphene Nanoplatelets a Study on Mechanical and Thermal Behaviour
Abstract: This study investigates the effect of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) on the mechanical and thermal properties of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) fabricated using the powder metallurgy route. Aluminum alloy Al-6061 powder was reinforced with varying GNP concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 wt%), followed by uniaxial compaction and sintering. The influence of GNP content on the composite’s structural integrity, strength, and thermal behavior was thoroughly evaluated through tensile testing, hardness …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 38–49 Read article
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Characterization of Fracture Toughness of As-Cast Si-Mo- Cr Ductile Cast Iron
Abstract: In the present study, a Si-Mo-Cr ductile cast iron is developed by taking three different combinations, viz. Heat-1, Heat-2 and Heat-3 of the selective amount of silicon, molybdenum, copper and chromium. For fracture toughness characterization, the specimens are prepared from the samples in "as-cast" conditions. The value of static fracture toughness obtained from the experiments for the specimen of Heat-2 with a fatigue pre-crack is 54.49 MPa√ , whereas, for …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites Read article