Advanced Polymer Composite for Aerospace Engineering Applications

Abstract

Composite materials, mainly fiber-reinforced polymers, are now used in applications where lightweight, high specific modulus and resistance, and environmental impact are critical issues. This chapter covers various polymer composite materials used for aerospace applications. Most of the polymer composites in the aircraft are made of thermoset and thermoplastic polymer. Reinforcement with engineered fiber in the polymer matrix was found to improve the properties of the polymer matrix. The effects of fiber orientation and the number of plies on the mechanical properties of the thermoset polymer composite were presented. Various types of thermoplastic polymer composite were also highlighted. The application of biocomposite and geopolymer composite was also included. This chapter concluded the importance of polymer composite materials and its future in aerospace applications.