This book describes process models for thermosetting and thermoplastic matrix composites and an expert system applicable to autoclave curing of thermosetting matrix composites. It presents a rule based expert system that can be used for real time control of the autoclave temperature and pressure.

This book describes process models for thermosetting and thermoplastic matrix composites and an expert system applicable to autoclave curing of thermosetting matrix composites. It presents a rule based expert system that can be used for real time control of the autoclave temperature and pressure.

Presentations by advanced materials specialists from around the world. Of special interest in this volume are the presentations on application areas such as automotive and civil engineering, nanomaterials, ceramic/metal composites, smart materials, and composite structures.

Explores State-of-the-Art Work from the World's Foremost Scientists, Engineers, Educators, and Practitioners in the FieldWhy use smart materials?Since most smart materials do not add mass, engineers can endow structures with built-in responses to a myriad of contingencies. In their various forms, these materials can adapt to their environments by c

Systems and Applications in Optical Fiber Sensor Technology The essential technology which underpins developments in optical fiber sensors continues to expand, and continues to be driven to a very large extent by advances in optoelectronics which have been produced for the ever-expanding optical com munications systems and networks of the world. The steps forward in the technol ogy, often accompanied by a reduction in the price of associated components, have been, and continue to be, adapted for use in a wide variety of optical fiber sensor systems. These include, for example, the use of photoinduced gratings as fiber sensor components, coupled with the wider availability of shorter wavelength lasers, bright luminescent sources and high-sensitivity detectors which have opened up new possibilities for both novel fiber optic sensor applications and new sensing systems. This is to be welcomed at a time when, coupled with integrated optic miniaturized devices and detectors, real possibilities of systems integration, at lower cost and increased utility, can be offered. The fiber laser, and the expansions of the types and availability of the doped fiber on which it is based, offer further examples of the integration of the essential components of advanced optical sensor systems, fitted for a new range of applications.

The use of high-temperature materials in current and future applications, including silicone materials for handling hot foods and metal alloys for developing high-speed aircraft and spacecraft systems, has generated a growing interest in high-temperature technologies. High Temperature Materials and Mechanisms explores a broad range of issues relate

Mechanical and Dynamic Properties of Biocomposites A comprehensive review of the properties of biocomposites and their applications Mechanical and Dynamic Properties of Biocomposites offers a comprehensive overview of the mechanical and dynamic properties of biocomposites and natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites. This essential resource helps with materials selection in the development of products in the fields of automotive and aerospace engineering as well as the construction of structures in civil engineering. With contributions from a panel of experts in the field, the book reviews the mechanical and damping properties of lingo-cellulosic fibers and their composites. The authors highlight the factors that contribute to the improved properties and their advancements in modern industrialization. Besides, the book is designed to (a) introduce the mechanical and damping properties of lingo-cellulosic fibers and their composites, (b) factors that contribute to improvement in properties such as hybridization, chemical treatment of natural fibers, additive or fillers, etc. and (c) the real-time applications with case studies and future prospects. Key features: Presents viable alternatives to conventional composites Examines the environmentally friendly and favorable mechanical properties of biocomposites Reviews the potential applications of biocomposites in the fields of automotive, mechanical and civil engineering Brings together in one comprehensive resource information found scattered across the professional literature Written for materials scientists, polymer chemists, chemists in industry, civil engineers, construction engineers, and engineering scientists in industry, Mechanical and Dynamic Properties of BIocomposites offers a compreshensive review of the properties and applications of biocomposites.

The use of natural fibres as reinforcements in composites has grown in importance in recent years. Natural Fibre Composites summarises the wealth of significant recent research in this area. Chapters in part one introduce and explore the structure, properties, processing, and applications of natural fibre reinforcements, including those made from wood and cellulosic fibres. Part two describes and illustrates the processing of natural fibre composites. Chapters discuss ethical practices in the processing of green composites, manufacturing methods and compression and injection molding techniques for natural fibre composites, and thermoset matrix natural fibre-reinforced composites. Part three highlights and interprets the testing and properties of natural fibre composites including, non-destructive and high strain rate testing. The performance of natural fibre composites is examined under dynamic loading, the response of natural fibre composites to impact damage is appraised, and the response of natural fibre composites in a marine environment is assessed. Natural Fibre Composites is a technical guide for professionals requiring an understanding of natural fibre composite materials. It offers reviews, applications and evaluations of the subject for researchers and engineers. - Introduces and explores the structure, properties, processing, and applications of natural fibre reinforcements, including those made from wood and cellulosic fibres - Highlights and interprets the testing and properties of natural fibre composites, including non-destructive and high strain rate testing - Examines performance of natural fibre composites under dynamic loading, the response of natural fibre composites to impact damage, and the response of natural fibre composites in a marine environment

The marine environment presents significant challenges for materials due to the potential for corrosion by salt water, extreme pressures when deeply submerged and high stresses arising from variable weather. Well-designed fibre-reinforced composites can perform effectively in the marine environment and are lightweight alternatives to metal components and more durable than wood. Marine Applications of Advanced Fibre-Reinforced Composites examines the technology, application and environmental considerations in choosing a fibre-reinforced composite system for use in marine structures. This book is divided into two parts. The chapters in Part One explore the manufacture, mechanical behavior and structural performance of marine composites, and also look at the testing of these composites and end of life environmental considerations. The chapters in Part Two then investigate the applications of marine composites, specifically for renewable energy devices, offshore oil and gas applications, rigging and sails. Underwater repair of marine composites is also reviewed. - Comprehensively examines all aspects of fibre-reinforced marine composites, including the latest advances in design, manufacturing methods and performance - Assesses the environmental impacts of using fibre-reinforced composites in marine environments, including end of life considerations - Reviews advanced fibre-reinforced composites for renewable energy devices, rigging, sail textiles, sail shape optimisation and offshore oil and gas applications