Advanced grid structure-reinforced composites

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the current status of composites reinforced with advanced grid structures. We introduce classification of the mesh structure, its characteristics, structural design and process, molding and performance analysis, and applications for mesh structural composites (or lattice structural composites or grid structural composites). First, we provide a summary of the international status and development of mesh structure composite materials, and then the critical technology involved in mesh structural composites, its processing, testing, and so on are discussed in detail. Principles of structure design and the advantages and disadvantages of various molding process for mesh structural composites are also presented. Information on the structure molding, performance evaluation, and testing methods is also given in detail. Finally, the potential application of diverse mesh structure composites in both aerospace and civil fields is analyzed in association with the main applications of mesh structures.