Polymer Composites: From Computational to Experimental Aspects

Polymers have been fundamental in advanced applications for an extended period due to their versatility and ease of molding to specific needs (Afzal and Nawab in Compos Solut Ballist 139–152, 2021) [1]. Nonetheless, using a single polymer often falls short of meeting the demands of advanced applications. Consequently, polymer composites have gained worldwide attention.

Curing methods are pivotal in shaping the properties and performance of polymer composites, influencing their mechanical strength, durability, and overall quality. This chapter underscores the diversity of curing techniques available, including traditional thermal curing, radiation curing (UV and electron beam), microwave curing, induction heating, and more. Each method offers distinct advantages and poses unique challenges, requiring careful consideration to select the most appropriate technique for specific composite materials and applications. Customization and in-situ curing are explored as strategies for optimizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. These approaches cater to the specific requirements of different composite materials, reduce transportation and handling, and offer flexibility in production.

Polymers are increasingly replacing conventional materials at a fast pace. New and innovative products are being developed daily. Any useful application of these products requires knowledge of material properties and a thorough understanding of various mechanisms involved in failure of these materials. All these require material procurement and human resources. Simulation procedures can make this task much easier and involve less human involvement and material wastage. Polymers can be tested much before their actual physical development. Various simulation techniques have been developed trying to investigate the polymer at nano- to microlevel. All these methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. This chapter is a review of various methods being used today to understand polymer composites.

Biopolymers, such as collagen, chitosan, and cellulose, are abundant in nature. Their potential use as scaffolds in bone tissue engineering may open new avenues for speedy tissue recovery. However, they are weak in mechanical properties and hence require a filler material to bear the mechanical loads. Current chapter discusses the use of biopolymers in the form of bio-nanocomposites as scaffolds. The chapter further discusses the use of atomistic modelling techniques such as molecular dynamics for exploring the mechanical behaviour of these bio-nanocomposites. The atomistic modelling techniques are instrumental in saving time and cost of experimental techniques by predicting the properties of materials before experiments.

This chapter thoroughly delves into the utilization of composite materials in structural applications within various industries, including aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and sports equipment. Composites are increasingly replacing traditional materials like steel and aluminum because of their pre-eminent thermal and mechanical properties, with ability to provide high performance, flexible shapes, low weight, and protection against deterioration. The chapter introduces the types of composite materials used in various applications. The chapter provides detailed process for the Modeling and Analysis of simple and curved composite plates using Ansys ACP Pre/Post Software. The chapter gives the overview on composite layers, material reference directions, Stackup Angle, Rosettes Orientation, Oriented Selection properties, and Modelling Groups, thus enabling efficient design optimization, and failure prediction in composite structures. It delves into the advantages of using ACP software, offering valuable insights into how these features contribute to the overall effectiveness of the software.

Various processes have been used in the fabrication of polymer matrix composites, including manual lay-up, compression moulding, pultrusion process, and resin transfer moulding. This chapter covers several kinds of joining procedures, including adhesive bonding, diffusion bonding, mechanical joining, ultrasonic welding, hot plate welding, resistance welding, and microwave joining techniques. The influence of process factors on the strength of polymer matrix joints has also been examined.

In this chapter, solid-state additive technique based on friction-stir processing method has been analyzed for its application in manufacturing of composites, known as friction-stir additive manufacturing. The method includes layer-by-layer deposition of materials through rotation of tool to bring high temperature through severe plastic deformation. It implicates surface cladding, alimentation of material through wire/powder, friction-surfacing, functionally graded materials, and friction stir processing as variation to the other methods. The mixing of material deposition in each layer exhibited the homogeneous and dense structures. The component fabricated by friction stir additive manufacturing had enabled distortion and lower levels of residual stress as compared to fusion-based additive processes. This technique has got the potential to accomplish higher ductility and isotropic strength with drastically increasing the materials productivity rates. These techniques are applicable to materials like aluminium/magnesium/titanium alloys, nickel-base superalloys or steels. In this chapter, various articles of solid-state manufacturing techniques are analyzed. The process parameters of friction stir additive manufacturing methods along with the outcome of the experiments performed on alloy/metal or fabrication of composites materials have been critically reviewed.

The unique blend of mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties found in polymer composites makes them a promising solution for addressing environmental pollution and remediation. These composites possess the ability to effectively eliminate pollutants from the environment using a range of methods, including adsorption, absorption, and catalysis. The integration of natural fibers as reinforcement in polymer composites has further boosted their potential for environmental applications due to their renewability and biodegradability. This abstract highlights the recent advancements in the development of polymer composites for environmental pollution and remediation. It reviews the various types of polymer composites and their pollutant removal mechanisms, as well as their potential for large-scale environmental applications. Moreover, it emphasizes the challenges and future directions in this field, including the need for a better understanding of the long-term environmental effects of these materials and the development of more sustainable manufacturing processes. In conclusion, polymer composites offer a significant potential for remediating environmental pollution and represent a promising pathway for achieving sustainable environmental management.

Corrosion poses a pervasive threat across various industrial sectors, demanding the development of effective and durable anticorrosive materials. This book chapter embarks on an extensive exploration of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites (FRPCs) as robust solutions for countering corrosion challenges. FRPCs, comprising a polymer matrix reinforced with natural or synthetic fibers, offer a unique amalgamation of properties that fortify their resistance against corrosion. The chapter commences by dissecting FRPCs into two distinct categories: Natural Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites (NFRPCs) and Synthetic Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites (SFRPCs). It delves into the fabrication techniques, corrosion resistance mechanisms, and real-world applications of both NFRPCs and SFRPCs. Within this context, the paramount role of natural fibers, such as jute, sisal, bamboo, and coir, in enhancing corrosion resistance is unveiled alongside the strength and versatility of synthetic fibers, including carbon, glass, and aramid. Intriguing case studies of NFRPCs and SFRPCs designed explicitly for anticorrosive applications in various industries, including infrastructure, off-shore marine environments, and the oil and gas sector, are meticulously explored. The chapter further navigates through the challenges and future prospects encountered by these materials, such as interfacial mismatches and sustainability concerns.

Natural and sustainable materials have attracted the researcher’s interest due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility features. Cellulose is one of the prime and abundant biomaterial which possesses a linear carbohydrate polymer long chain. The hydrogen bonding between the polymer chains provides crystalline configuration and stiffness to the structure. Cellulose-based environment-friendly composites have been developed using different fillers/reinforcers applied to different applications. Resources can be efficiently used, and waste streams can be managed in a better way by replacing fossil fuel-based resources with biomass for biocomposites. Cellulose provides cheap and biodegradable options which attract the different areas of applications such as automotive, energy harvesting and textiles.

High-strength carbon fiber reinforced composites (CFRP) because of their outstanding mechanical properties and lightweight characteristics have drawn a lot of interest from the research community and various industries. Due to their remarkable properties CFRPs are being used everywhere but, there are certain challenges in their machining process, such as delamination, abrasive wear, and poor surface finish of obtained product. This challenge needs to be addressed with innovative and effective solutions. This study discusses one such key solution, i.e., using coated cutting tools to improve machining efficiency and productivity and produce a good surface finish. Furthermore, this chapter briefly discusses the application areas of CFRPs and the challenges associated with the machining of these composites. Moreover, by a systematic analysis of cutting parameters, tool coatings, and their interactions, this chapter explains the intricate relationship between tool selection and machining performance. In addition, this chapter will be a helpful resource for researchers, engineers, and practitioners for improving the machinability of CFRP composites.

This chapter unveils the transformative potential of fillers and nanofiller infusion into polymer matrices through reactive extrusion. Reactive extrusion, recognized as a versatile platform, capitalizes on high shear forces, intense mixing, and controlled temperature conditions for achieving uniform filler dispersion and enhanced interactions within the polymer matrix. The significance of interactions and interfaces is underscored, highlighting surface functionalization, coupling agents, and interfacial engineering for improved filler-matrix adhesion by examples and applications. Opportunities presented by layered nanofillers, such as metallic and non-metallic fillers, for exfoliation are discussed, elucidating their contribution to elevated material properties, and tailored structural characteristics. Shear-induced enhancement during reactive extrusion takes center stage, demonstrating its pivotal role in achieving desired filler dispersion and orientation for enhanced material properties. While acknowledging challenges in process optimization, striking a harmonious balance between property enhancements and processability remains paramount. Serving as a comprehensive guide for researchers and practitioners, this chapter provides nuanced insights into the intricacies of nanofiller incorporation via reactive extrusion and its profound impact on polymer nanocomposites.

The objective is to provide contextual knowledge about the drilling process of polymer matrix composites, while underscoring the significance of the current investigation. The drilling forces and drilling-induced damage have been elucidated in relation to the several facets of drilling of polymer matrix composites (PMCs). This chapter provides a comprehensive evaluation of existing research findings pertaining to the drilling of polymer matrix composites.

This work investigates the buckling behavior of the sandwich flat panel structure with a cutout under the influence of externally applied mechanical load. The investigation was carried out using the concept of First-order Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) and Finite Element Method (FEM) in a commercially available modelling and analysis tool ABAQUS. The FSDT is known to be a precise theory for analyzing the structural behavior of sandwich panels and FE is a widely accepted approximate method to solve the differential/integral governing equations. Initially, the sandwich panel with cutout is modeled and material properties of core and face sheets are being defined from the material library/user defined tabs. The model is now discretized using an 8-noded isoparametric element, each offering 48 degrees of freedom. Later on, the specific external mechanical load, as well as the edge constraint condition, are being imposed. Now, the model is being solved to determine the critical buckling load. First of all, the accuracy of above discussed numerical model has been confirmed before its further implementation by comparing the numerically obtained results with the published critical buckling responses, demonstrating a favorable concurrence with the current simulation model. Furthermore, the numerical model has been used to examine the geometrical parameters like shape, size, and position of cutout along with core-face thickness ratio and end conditions effect on buckling responses of sandwich panels by solving various examples. Now, a comprehensive analysis and discussions are made on the outcomes/trends of the solved examples in detail.

Numerous investigations have been undertaken to discover which natural fibre composites are best suited for certain technical uses. Natural fibres are preferable due to their many positive qualities, including their low density, cheap cost, simplicity of use, durability, and biodegradability. The Pinus roxburghii needles (PRN) are abundant in the Indian state of Uttarakhand's mountainous northern area. Using PRN fibre in bio-composite reinforcement may lessen the need for synthetic fibre and put more of a focus on the use of natural resources. Considering this, this chapter discusses how Pinus roxburghii fibres (PRF) may be used to strengthen polylactic acid (PLA) composites while also being renewable. Study topics include PRF extraction, alkali treatment, and subsequent usage in the creation of PLA-based composites.

Paper-reinforced composite materials represent a renewable and biodegradable resource. These composites blend paper fibers with binders to enhance critical mechanical properties, such as compressive strength, compressive strain at rupture, strain energy density for resilience, and strain energy. This research actively promotes the development of eco-friendly materials, reducing reliance on non-biodegradable substances that contribute to environmental pollution and waste. Moreover, this paper delves into the integration of machine learning techniques for predicting material properties, demonstrating their reliability. Among the machine learning models, including Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Tree (DT), and k-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Random Forest (RF) showcased the best performance with 96% accuracy. The analysis included performance parameter assessments and calculations of sensitivity and specificity for mechanical properties. This integration significantly cuts costs and time associated with experimentation and design iterations, enabling researchers to uncover fundamental characteristics of composite materials and in turn, facilitating the development of novel composites with enhanced performance attributes.

The through hole in composite laminates is done by piercing, which is one of the most essential procedures. The piercing of epoxy laminates results in significant impairment to the area around the hole that is pierced. The improved drill geometry allows for the creation of holes that are free of burr formation. The current study effort is centered on wood drill as a potential factor that affects the forces that are applied during piercing. When piercing in composite materials, the wood drill shape allows for more precise piercing. The penetration of wood drill configuration on the laminate is significantly different, and as a result, it influences the burr formation that is caused by piercing. According to the findings of the experiment, there seems to be a significant relation between the feed velocity and axial forces induced in epoxy laminates.

Encompassing over two-thirds of our planet, aquatic ecosystems serve as crucial stabilizers of the global climate while providing a vast array of essential services to a rapidly expanding human population. It supports a wide range of organisms, including microorganisms, invertebrates, insects, plants, and fish. This critical review delves into plant-animal-microbe interactions, examining their structural and functional modifications, associated biogeochemical implications, the prevalence of microplastic debris and biofilm assemblages, and the interplay of positive and negative interactions within aquatic ecosystems. There are several types of microbial interactions, which either singly or in combination may influence the functioning of the microbial ecology. While aquatic microbiomes exhibit variations across geographic locations, temperature gradients, depths, and other environmental parameters, core microbial functions, such as primary production, nitrogen cycling, and nutrient metabolism, remain largely conserved throughout aquatic environments. Microbial assemblages often form biofilms around aquatic plants, establishing a symbiotic relationship that hinges on the mutual exchange of nutrients. Additionally, we have compiled a comprehensive catalog of marine mammal and fish microbial genera, highlighting shared compositional and functional patterns across aquatic species. Recent technological advancements have opened up new avenues for exploring microbial diversity in aquatic ecosystems, paving the way for the effective utilization of microorganism-derived enzymes in various industries, including food and detergent production, sustainable agriculture practices, environmental protection, and human and animal health. Additionally, mathematical modeling has emerged as a powerful tool for unraveling the intricate dynamics of microbial communities within aquatic ecosystems.

Only 0.007% of the Earth's total water supply is readily available for human consumption, a supply that is sustainably replenished through precipitation events like rain and snow. The issue of freshwater scarcity is already acute in various dry areas globally and is projected to become even more significant in the years to come. Moreover, because of the high increase in population, the freshwater amount is effectively decreased by contamination as well as pollution. One among the practical, technical, and economically viable uses of solar energy is solar distillation which is a basic and optimal source of drinkable water for both agricultural and consumption needs. This chapter includes a panoptic review of the solar desalination systems.