From a March 2001 symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, 17 papers consider such topics as tabbed versus untabbed fiber-reinforced composite compression, qualification using a nested experimental design, determining and characterizing imperfections in composite pressure vessels, philosophies for assessing t

This report reviews the most important studies undertaken of the compressive failure mechanisms encountered in modern composite materials. It considers first the behaviour of unidirectional laminates, followed by unnotched and notched multidirectional structures. It then considers existing theoretical models. An additional indexed section containing several hundred abstracts from the Rapra Polymer Library database provides useful references for further reading.

A comprehensive, practical guide to wood-plastic composites and their properties This is the first book that presents an overview of the main principles underlying the composition of wood-plastic composite (WPC) materials and their performance in the real world. Focusing on the characteristics of WPC materials rather than their manufacture, this guide bridges the gap between laboratory-based research and testing and the properties WPC materials exhibit when they're used in decks, railing systems, fences, and other common applications. Complete with practical examples and case studies, this guide: Describes compositions of WPC materials, including thermoplastics, cellulose fiber, minerals, additives, and their properties Covers mechanical properties, microbial resistance, water absorption, flammability, slip resistance, thermal expansion-contraction, sensitivity to oxidation and solar radiation, and rheological properties of hot melts of WPC Covers subjects that determine esthetics, properties, performance, and durability of wood-plastic composite products Includes comparisons of different ASTM methods and procedures that apply to specific properties This is a comprehensive, hands-on reference for scientists, engineers, and researchers working with wood-plastic composites in plastics and polymers, materials science, microbiology, rheology, plastic technology, and chemical engineering, as well as an outstanding text for graduate students in these disciplines. It's also an excellent resource for suppliers and WPC manufacturers, and an accessible guide for developers, homebuilders, and landscape architects who want to know more about wood-plastic composites and their performance in the real world.

The papers contained herein were presented at the Third International Conference on Composite Structures (ICCS/3) held at Paisley College of Technology, Paisley, Scotland, in September 1985. The Conference was organised and sponsored by Paisley College of Technology. It was co sponsored by the Scottish Development Agency, the National Engineering Laboratory, the USAF European Office of Aerospace Research and Development, and the US Army Research, Development and Standard isation Group-UK. It forms a natural and ongoing progression from the highly successful First and Second International Conferences on Composite Structures (ICCS/l and ICCS/2) held at Paisley in 1981 and 1983, respectively. To label composites as rather specialised, sophisticated, space-age structural materials would be to underestimate greatly their wider industrial potential. It is unquestionably true that they will play an increasingly dominant, if not decisive, role in aerospace engineering. Indeed a future aircraft industry without composites as the prime structural materials is inconceivable. However, in an energy-conscious world the high specific weights and stiffnesses of composites make them an attractive proposition in every sphere of transportation engineering. This fact is soundly underlined in one of the Plenary papers contained herein and in one of the sessions devoted to this subject. I t would also be a considerable mistake to interpret composites as simply lightweight alternatives to conventional metallic structural materials.

The structural materials used in airframe and propulsion systems influence the cost, performance and safety of aircraft, and an understanding of the wide range of materials used and the issues surrounding them is essential for the student of aerospace engineering.Introduction to aerospace materials reviews the main structural and engine materials used in aircraft, helicopters and spacecraft in terms of their production, properties, performance and applications.The first three chapters of the book introduce the reader to the range of aerospace materials, focusing on recent developments and requirements. Following these introductory chapters, the book moves on to discuss the properties and production of metals for aerospace structures, including chapters covering strengthening of metal alloys, mechanical testing, and casting, processing and machining of aerospace metals. The next ten chapters look in depth at individual metals including aluminium, titanium, magnesium, steel and superalloys, as well as the properties and processing of polymers, composites and wood. Chapters on performance issues such as fracture, fatigue and corrosion precede a chapter focusing on inspection and structural health monitoring of aerospace materials. Disposal/recycling and materials selection are covered in the final two chapters.With its comprehensive coverage of the main issues surrounding structural aerospace materials,Introduction to aerospace materials is essential reading for undergraduate students studying aerospace and aeronautical engineering. It will also be a valuable resource for postgraduate students and practising aerospace engineers. - Reviews the main structural and engine materials used in aircraft, helicopters and space craft in terms of their properties, performance and applications - Introduces the reader to the range of aerospace materials, focusing on recent developments and requirements, and discusses the properties and production of metals for aerospace structures - Chapters look in depth at individual metals including aluminium, titanium, magnesium, steel and superalloys