Composite Manufacturing Research Articles

A multi‐layer approach for additive manufacturing of continuous fiber composites

AbstractAdditive manufacturing (AM) of continuous fiber reinforced polymer composites (cFRPCs) requires innovative tool‐pathing strategies that account for the anisotropic properties of the continuous fibers and ensure their continuous deposition as reinforcement along the designed structure, reducing fibers bending and cutting. Existing 3D printing slicing software, designed for isotropic materials like neat polymers, has been adapted for 3D printing of continuous fiber composites, resulting in a layer‐by‐layer approach that necessitates filament cutting after each layer deposition. This method introduces discontinuities, weakening the material and underutilizing continuous fibers strength. In this research, we propose a novel tool‐pathing strategy designed to address these challenges through (1) Ensuring fiber continuity across layers by allowing overlapping filaments and (2) Strategically positioning fiber cut points based on stress distribution, modeled using finite element analysis. A Multi‐Layer Continuous Fiber Path (ML‐CFP) approach was introduced and validated on a simple bracket structure featuring two load‐application inserts. 3D printed brackets using different tool paths were tested to failure under tension and compression after compression molding to improve interlayer adhesion. Mechanical investigations confirmed that the ML‐CFP approach enhances fiber utilization, improving tensile strength and work to fracture by up to 46% and 100% through promoting failure in fibers rather than at cut points.Highlights Introduced the multi‐layer continuous fiber path method (ML‐CFP) in AM of cFRPCs. Introduced the strategic cut point placement (SCPP) based on stress distribution. Maintaining fiber continuity and reduce fiber bending by allowing filament overlap. Mechanical testing to compare the ML‐CFP with conventional slicing methods. Enhanced tensile strength by up to 46% and work to fracture by 100%.

Lightweight and conformal acousto‐ultrasonic sensing network for multi‐scale structural health monitoring: A review

AbstractStructural health monitoring (SHM) has been increasingly investigated for decades. Different physical principles have been developed for damage identification, such as electronics, mechanics, magnetics, etc., with different coverage (i.e., global, large‐area, and local monitoring) and sensitivity. Mechanical acousto‐ultrasonic‐based methods have formed a big family in SHM technologies. Multiple wave/resonance modes have been utilized for versatile SHM tasks. The permanently integrated sensing networks play a significant role in achieving a cost‐effective and reliable SHM system, with major concerns including weight increase for large‐scale deployment and conformity for complex geometry structures. In this review, typical acousto‐ultrasonic sensors made of different material systems are discussed, along with advantages and limitations. Moreover, advanced network installation methods have been introduced, including surface‐mounting with pre‐integrated networks on substrates and in situ printing, and embedding with composite layup and metal additive manufacturing. Sensor versatility and usage in multi‐scale SHM techniques are then highlighted. Different wave/resonance modes are transmitted and received with corresponding elements and network designs. In conclusion, this systematic review mainly covers a collection of acousto‐ultrasonic sensors, two modalities of network installation, and their employment with various SHM methods, hopefully providing a useful guide to building lightweight and conformal networks with passive or active‐passive sensors, and developing complete and reliable SHM strategies by integrating different damage identification methods on multiple scales.

Upcycling waste polypropylene with basalt fibre reinforcement enhancing additive manufacturing feedstock for advanced mechanical performance

This research seeks to overcome the printing and processing challenges of using waste polypropylene (PP) reinforced with short basalt fibres, transforming them into upcycled feedstock for additive manufacturing. It introduces an optimised method for producing filaments and 3D printing with these materials, addressing common issues such as adhesion and warpage through innovative techniques while achieving maximum mechanical performance in the resulting composites. Basalt fibre weight fractions of 0 %, 2 %, 5 %, 8 %, 15 %, 30 %, and 50 % were used to reinforce the recycled polypropylene, improving both printability and mechanical properties. The tensile strength reached 53.58 MPa at 15 % fibre content, while the flexural strength peaked at 34.06 MPa with 30 % fibre content, revealing distinct interactions between the fibres and polymer under tensile and flexural loading that were not previously observed. Microstructure, voids, debonding, and dispersion were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was performed to assess the thermal behaviour and crystallinity of the recycled polymer during filament production and printing, revealing slight matrix degradation during these processes. The findings highlight the potential of waste basalt fibre-reinforced PP as a valuable filament feedstock for 3D printing, supporting a circular economy approach to composite manufacturing.

Detecting Multi-Scale Defects in Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites: A Review of Challenges and Advanced Non-Destructive Testing Techniques

Additive manufacturing (AM) defects present significant challenges in fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites (FRTPCs), directly impacting both their structural and non-structural performance. In structures produced through material extrusion-based AM, specifically fused filament fabrication (FFF), the layer-by-layer deposition can introduce defects such as porosity (up to 10–15% in some cases), delamination, voids, fiber misalignment, and incomplete fusion between layers. These defects compromise mechanical properties, leading to reduction of up to 30% in tensile strength and, in some cases, up to 20% in fatigue life, severely diminishing the composite’s overall performance and structural integrity. Conventional non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques often struggle to detect such multi-scale defects efficiently, especially when resolution, penetration depth, or material heterogeneity pose challenges. This review critically examines manufacturing defects in FRTPCs, classifying FFF-induced defects based on morphology, location, and size. Advanced NDT techniques, such as micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), which is capable of detecting voids smaller than 10 µm, and structural health monitoring (SHM) systems integrated with self-sensing fibers, are discussed. The role of machine-learning (ML) algorithms in enhancing the sensitivity and reliability of NDT methods is also highlighted, showing that ML integration can improve defect detection by up to 25–30% compared to traditional NDT techniques. Finally, the potential of self-reporting FRTPCs, equipped with continuous fibers for real-time defect detection and in situ SHM, is investigated. By integrating ML-enhanced NDT with self-reporting FRTPCs, the accuracy and efficiency of defect detection can be significantly improved, fostering broader adoption of AM in aerospace applications by enabling the production of more reliable, defect-minimized FRTPC components.

Multiscale image-based modeling for failure prediction of sheet molding compound composite under uniaxial tension

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are extensively utilized as primary load-bearing components in various engineering applications due to their superior strength-to-weight ratio and excellent mechanical properties. However, their intricate microstructural interactions within composite present a significant challenge for failure analysis of CFRP. Although finite element (FE) simulations have been proven feasible to conduct the failure analysis, the classical FE models are developed based on homogeneous fiber characteristics, ignoring the influence of internal structures on the damage evolution process. This paper presents a multiscale image-based modeling approach to predict the tensile failure procedure of chopped carbon fiber sheet molding compound (SMC) composite. To accurately reconstruct the representative volume element (RVE) model of the SMC composite, synchrotron micro-X-ray computed tomography (μXCT) was adapted to explore the SMC internal microstructure. Then microscale RVE models with different fiber volume fractions were constructed to predict the corresponding microcosmic mechanical properties, which were used as the inputs for mesoscale RVE models to determine the constitutive parameters of fiber chips having varied fiber volume and orientations. Finally, the YOLOv5_Seg algorithm was employed to extract the geometric feature parameters of the fiber chips for mesoscale RVE modeling and then the failure location and sequence under uniaxial tension were predicted. It is found that the final simulated failure behaviors were consistent with the experimental observations, confirming the feasibility of this approach for understanding the failure mechanisms of CFRP composites. Thus, once the internal microstructure is determined using experimental techniques or predicted by simulating the composite manufacturing process, this approach can also be utilized for design optimization and performance evaluation for CFRP composites.

Unveiling exotic multi-scale microstructure transformation and crack formation mechanisms in eutectic ceramic composite by laser powder bed fusion

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) represents an advanced and versatile technology. Exploiting its distinctive advantages for direct and rapid fabrication of complex-structured melt-grown oxide eutectic ceramic composite represents a pioneering yet challenging endeavor. In this work, LPBF is creatively employed to fabricate turbine blade-shaped, in-situ ternary eutectic ceramic composite. Through the integration of experimental procedures, Finite element method (FEM) simulations, and numerical analyses, an innovative design and manufacturing of oxide eutectic ceramic composites have been successfully established. Comprehensive FEM simulations, with detailed interface characteristic analysis, have revealed macro-scale cracks induced by intense maximum principal stress, and micro-cracks stemming from significant interfacial energy disparities among the three constituent phases. The applications of rapid solidification and nucleation theories have facilitated profound insights into the formation mechanisms of multi-scale exotic microstructures, including top-layer coarse dendrites, rosette-like spherical internally grown eutectic colony within layers, and columnar eutectic colonies with ultra-fine lamellar eutectic structures. Micro-mechanical property testing reveals enhanced performance in the inter-layer ultra-fine lamellar eutectic structure, which is attributed to a refined eutectic spacing of approximately 61 nm, coupled with distinct and robust bonding interfaces. These groundbreaking achievements, focusing on the processing-microstructure-property relationship in the fabrication of gas turbine blade-shaped solidified eutectic ceramic composite using LPBF, provide invaluable theoretical insights and data. This knowledge is crucial for the LPBF production of high-temperature structural materials, highlighting its significant potential applications in fields of aerospace and mechanical engineering.

Autonomous intelligent additive manufacturing of continuous fiber-reinforced composites: data-enhanced knowledgebase and multi-sensor fusion

ABSTRACT Additive manufacturing (AM) are an emerging technique to generate complex structures of composite. However, the instability of the AM process leads to adverse manufacturing effects, including dimensional inaccuracies and poor mechanical performance in CFRP composites. Online monitoring and adaptive control based on autonomous cognition are suggested to ensure the accuracy of as-fabricated parts and enhance their quality upon manufacturing. In this study, a method of online monitoring and self-adaptive control based on multi-sensor fusion is proposed to predict and adjust the process parameters during AM of CFRP. The force sensor, visual camera, and thermal camera are employed to obtain the multiple signals upon manufacturing and then realize the autonomous perception, cognition, and decision features. Herein, the quantitative correlations between local defects and multi-sensing features are established to guide the decision-making of closed-loop adjustment. Besides, an empirical surrogate model between the misalignment of fiber bundles and input parameters is built to predict the proper parameters. Moreover, the temperature difference and contact force are selected as the controlled features, which are acquired using a thermal camera and a force sensor. The proposed system offers a novel framework for bolstering both the stability of the AM process and the quality of fabricated components.

A new path planning strategy driven by geometric features and tensile properties for 3D printing of continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites (C-FRTP), capable of rapid manufacturing of lightweight components with intricate geometric features, has emerged as one of the most promising technologies in the field of advanced composite manufacturing. Path planning is a crucial step for determining the fabrication quality of C-FRTP components. This study proposed a new 3D printing path planning strategy driven by the geometric features and tensile properties of C-FRTP components. The strategy employed the properties of the Euler graph to generate the continuous full-field filling paths, ensuring the geometric features of the target components. The intersections were scattered along the printing path to enhance the tensile strength. The feasibility and advantages of the new path planning strategy were validated by comparative experiments with different printing paths. The results indicated that the new strategy not only achieved the geometric features of the target components but significantly enhanced their tensile strength. Using the printing path generated by the new path planning strategy, the tensile strength of specimens featuring mounting holes reached 349.4 MPa, which was only about 4.1 % lower than the tensile strength of continuous fibers at straight paths. Compared to the existing contour-parallel path, the new strategy in this work improved the tensile properties by about 40.9 %. The new path planning strategy proposed in this study shows great potential to design and fabricate C-FRTP components with enhanced mechanical properties for practical applications.

Current status and challenges of lightweight design and manufacturing technology for aerospace structures

Lightweight technology refers to the technology of reducing the structural mass by optimizing materials, structures and manufacturing processes while meeting the requirements of structural performance. It has become one of the key technologies for the development of the new generation of aerospace equipment. This paper first analyzes the development history of lightweight technology. Secondly, from the perspectives of design principles, composition methods and optimization methods, three types of lightweight design methods are introduced: bionic structure design, cellular structure design and efficient topology optimization design. Then, from the perspective of lightweight manufacturing processes and modes, the application of additive manufacturing, collaborative manufacturing and composite material manufacturing in lightweight manufacturing of aerospace structures is explained. Finally, the challenges and future development of lightweight technology are discussed.

Determination of Composition and Density of Sandwich Composites Produced by Vacuum Lamination

Purpose: This study aims to characterize the composition and density of bulkheads manufactured by vacuum lamination. Theoretical Framework: Sandwich composites are widely used due to their high specific strength, a critical factor in reducing energy consumption associated with weight, especially when manufactured through vacuum lamination. However, the final composition and density of these materials are important factors for decision-making in the project, but they are often not known beforehand. Method: Characterization was carried out on five samples taken from different regions of the laminated plates. The composition was determined by varying the area density, and the final composite density was obtained based on the observed composition and the density of the components. Results and conclusion: The results indicated a density of 0.21 g/cm³ for the laminated material. The analysis allowed determining the mass and volumetric fractions of the components, demonstrating the consistency of the manufacturing parameters and their adequacy to the project's requirements. Research Implications: This study contributes to improving the vacuum lamination process by providing a methodology for characterizing the density of sandwich composites, which can be applied in various projects, as well as providing reference values. Originality/Value: The research offers an innovative approach by exploring the variation of area density to characterize the composition of composites, contributing to the optimization of the sandwich composite manufacturing process, such as the vessel “Gigante Vermelho” used in the Desafio Solar Brasil 2022.

Influence of castor oil‐derived bio‐resin on mechanical and visco‐elastic properties of dynamic covalent imine bond based epoxy and its composite

AbstractThe widespread use of thermoset composites has raised significant environmental and economic concerns due to their non‐recyclable nature. This study addresses these issues by developing vitrimers and their composites featuring dynamic imine bonds synthesized from vanillin, 3,3′‐dimethyl‐4,4′‐diaminodicyclohexylmethane, and epoxy. To enhance toughness and bio‐content in the vitrimer and its composites, a green reactive monomer, epoxy methyl ricinoleate (EMR), was synthesized via the transesterification of epoxidized castor oil (ECO) and incorporated as the reactive diluent. The effect of EMR on bio‐resin mechanical, thermo‐mechanical, and relaxation times (τ) of the vitrimer was examined. The inclusion of EMR reduced the relaxation time, indicating improved dynamic bond exchange efficiency. EMR incorporation decreased the relaxation time, suggesting enhanced efficiency in the interchange of dynamic bonds. In addition, the incorporation of 20% EMR increased the impact strength of the epoxy vitrimer by 37.8%. The study also details the manufacturing and characterization of greener composites made with these vitrimers and flax fabric, which were evaluated for various mechanical and thermo‐mechanical properties. Morphological analysis using a scanning electron microscope revealed good interfacial adhesion between the fiber and matrix. Furthermore, the flax fiber vitrimer‐based composite demonstrated effective chemical recyclability. The results indicate that these composites possess mechanical and thermal‐mechanical properties well‐suited for lightweight engineering applications.Highlights Recyclable vitrimers were developed from vanillin and epoxy. Toughness and bio‐content were enhanced by adding EMR. Relaxation time was reduced by EMR, improving bond exchange efficiency. Epoxy vitrimer impact strength was increased by 37.8% with 20% EMR. Green composites with vitrimers and flax fabric were manufactured.

Development of sustainable, high strength slag based alkali activated pavement quality concrete using agro-industrial wastes: properties and life cycle analysis

ABSTRACT Alkali-activated binder-based composites offer a sustainable alternative to cement-based systems, giving a conservational approach. This research incorporated rice-husk ash (RHA) and waste foundry sand (WFS) into ground-granulated-blast-furnace slag (GGBS)-based alkali-activated high-end pavement-quality concretes, optimising with air-curing for expressways, freeways and runway applications. This study promotes sustainable construction by efficiently utilising agro-industrial wastes (i.e., RHA, GGBS and WFS) promoting a global initiative to decrease environmental impact and to adopt eco-friendly pavement construction methods. This study systematically substitutes the primary binder-GGBS with RHA at 5% intervals. The binder was alkali-activated using measured amounts of liquid sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide flakes prepared at an activator modulus (Ms) of 1.25 by maintaining the sodium oxide dosage of 4.0% with respect to the total binder. In particular, 15% RHA (with 85% GGBS) and 20% WFS (with 80% river sand) satisfy mechanical design standards for workability and strength. A comprehensive life cycle analysis using extensive literature support assesses the environmental impact and sustainability of developed pavement quality composites, showing over 70% less energy use than Portland cement-based pavement mixes. Therefore, employing RHA and WFS in air-cured alkali-activated composite manufacture shows that agro-industrial waste components may be used to make sustainable, cost-effective pavement construction. This study effectively advocates for a shift towards environmentally responsible pavement construction, contributing to a greener, more sustainable future in concrete pavement engineering.

Bubble-Free Frontal Polymerization of Acrylates via Redox-Initiated Free Radical Polymerization.

Thermal frontal polymerization (FP) of acrylate monomers mixed with conventional peroxide initiators leads to significant bubble formation at the polymerizing front, limiting their practical applications. Redox initiators present a promising alternative to peroxide initiators, as they prevent the formation of gaseous byproducts during initiator decomposition and lower the front temperature, thereby enabling bubble-free FP. In this study, we investigate the FP of acrylate monomers of varying functionalities, including methyl methacrylate (MMA), 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), and trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), using N,N-dimethylaniline/benzoyl peroxide (DMA/BPO) redox couple at room temperature and compare their front behavior, pot life, and bubble formation with those of same resin systems mixed with a conventional peroxide initiator, Luperox 231. The use of redox couples in FP of acrylates shows promise for rapid, energy-efficient manufacturing of polyacrylates and can enable new applications such as 3D printing and composite manufacturing.

Aging performance and mechanism of carbon fiber-reinforced bismaleamide composites under natural aging in marine environments

The aging performance and mechanisms of carbon fiber reinforced bismaleimide composites under natural aging in marine environments are comprehensively investigated in this study. The prepared samples were exposed to aging under natural sunlight testing for one and a half years at the sea shores. Quasi-static tests were performed to evaluate the tensile, compressive, and in-plane shear strengths of the unaged and aged specimens. The fracture morphologies were characterized in order to reveal the aging mechanisms. The results show that the aging and decomposition of resin led to the reduction of mechanical properties. The 0° tensile, 0° compressive, 90° tensile and in-plane shear properties compared with unaged samples decreased by 4.6 %, 24.3 %, 24.7 % and 8.5 %, respectively. The microscopic, spectroscopic, and gravimetric analyses indicated that aging process mainly occurred on the surface of the specimen; the matrix degraded due to water hydrolysis, and the heat resistance of the samples decreased after aging. It was concluded that the autoclave molding method tightly combines the fibers with resin, making it more difficult for moisture to diffuse into the interior of the specimen. Based on the findings of this study, valuable insights can be made to guide the design, manufacture, and long-term durability of carbon fiber-reinforced bismaleimide composites in marine applications.

Investigation on Erosion Resistance in Polyester-Jute Composites with Red Mud Particulate: Impact of Fibre Treatment and Particulate Addition.

This research investigates the manufacturing and characterisation of polyester-based composites reinforced with jute fibres and red mud particulates. The motivation stems from the need for sustainable, high-performance materials for applications in industries, like aerospace and automotive, where resistance to erosion is critical. Jute, a renewable fibre, combined with red mud, an industrial byproduct, offers an eco-friendly alternative to conventional composites. The composites were fabricated using compression moulding with varying red mud contents (10, 20, and 30 wt.%) and a fixed 40 wt.% of jute fibre. Fibre treatments included sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and silane treatments to improve bonding and performance. Erosion tests were performed using an air-jet erosion tester, examining the effects of the red mud content, fibre treatment, and impact angles. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis provided insights into the erosion mechanisms. A distinctive reduction in erosion rates at higher impact angles (30°-60°) was observed, attributed to the semi-ductile nature of the composites. The addition of red mud enhanced erosion resistance, although an excess of 30 wt.% reduced resistance due to poor surface bonding. Silane-treated composites showed the lowest erosion rates. This study provides new insights into the interplay among material composition, fibre treatment, and erosion dynamics, contributing to the development of optimised, eco-friendly composite materials.

Comprehensive Analysis of the Effect of Braiding Angle on the Wettability and Mechanical Properties of 3D Braided Carbon Fiber Fabric-Reinforced Composites

Fiber-reinforced composites are designed to enhance strength, stiffness, and lightweight properties. However, while the use of continuous fibers offer substantial performance benefits it presents challenges in achieving complex configurations. This study focused on evaluating the effects of different braiding angles on the mechanical properties of braided fabric-reinforced composites (B-CFRP). Continuous fiber tows were braided around a mandrel, with meticulous control over the key process parameters to ensure consistency. The composites were then processed using the Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) technique to achieve optimal impregnation of the resin. Mechanical properties, including tensile, flexural, compressive strength, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), and impact strength, were performed to establish the relationship between resin impregnation and mechanical properties with different braid angles. Additionally, resin flow experiments and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis were conducted to investigate how variations in braiding angle influence fiber arrangement, resin distribution, and fracture behavior. These insights aim to guide the design and manufacturing of high-performance composites.

Numerical investigation on machining of additively manufactured CFRP composite with different build orientations and layer widths

Additive manufacturing (AM) is now a widely researched manufacturing technology in the past two decades to adopt in industry for its added advantage of customization and adopting complex geometries with comparatively low buy-to-fly ratio. Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite has found applications in different high-performance industries for its greatest benefit of high strength-to-weight ratio. Additive manufacturing of CFRP composite (AM-CFRP) opens up the possibility of enhancing mechanical strength using different printing orientations and enables producing complex shapes maintaining sustainable manufacturing perspective. However, Limitation of AM parts of having surface irregularities and questionable dimensional accuracies. To use AM-CFRP parts in high precision assembly or industrial applications, post processing machining is often required to meet the customers’ specification of geometrical tolerances and acceptable surface finish. In this study, the influence of AM parameters on machinability of AM-CFRP composite has been evaluated using finite element analysis (FEA) based numerical simulation. The slot milling operation was simulated with a tungsten carbide end milling tool and AM-CFRP workpiece with four different printing directions, i.e., 0°-90°, 45°-135°, 0°-90°-45°-135°, two different layer widths, i.e., 50 µm and 100 µm, and two in-fill patterns, i.e., solid and perforated structures. The machinability of the 3D printed CFRP has been analyzed based on cutting forces, stress at first contact and maximum stress generation, and temperature increases at the interface during slot milling of AM-CFRP under different AM parameters. Evolution of failure mechanisms of AM-CFRPs under various machining conditions, such as, delamination, matrix rupture etc., have been discussed and chip and burr formation mechanisms have been analyzed. Finite Element analysis (FEA) package ABAQUS/Explicit was used to model 3D micro slot milling operation of AM-CFRP workpiece with appropriate damage and constitutive models, such as, damage initiation, progression and cohesion in adjacent passes and layers.

A friction-based method for measuring the radial compaction response of fibre tows

High performance fibre reinforced composite components are typically compacted to a high fibre volume fraction during manufacture. As such, it is important to understand the compaction behaviour of these materials to better design and model composite manufacturing processes. While most manufacturing processes apply transverse compaction pressure to planar textiles, continuous fibre composite 3D printing processes can apply a radial compaction pressure to a single tow in the printing nozzle. A similar mode of compaction is also seen in processes such as pultrusion of circular cross-sections. This work describes a new friction-based method for measuring the radial compaction response of single tows, or groups of tows. The radial compaction behaviour of a single 40K carbon fibre tow is measured and presented. Radial compaction of the characterised tow showed a steeper nonlinear relationship between compaction pressure and fibre volume fraction, than typically found for transverse compaction of 2D textile reinforcements.

Chemistry and Physics of Wet Foam Stability for Porous Ceramics: A Review

The unique structural properties of porous ceramics, such as low thermal conductivity, high surface area, controlled permeability, and low density, make this material valuable for a wide range of applications. Its uses include insulation, catalyst carriers, filters, bio-scaffolds for tissue engineering, and composite manufacturing. However, existing processing methods for porous ceramics, namely replica techniques and sacrificial templates, are complex, release harmful gases, have limited microstructure control, and are expensive. In contrast, the direct foaming method offers a simple and cost-effective approach. By modifying the surface chemistry of ceramic particles in a colloidal suspension, the hydrophilic particles are transformed into hydrophobic ones using surfactants. This method produces porous ceramics with interconnected pores, creating a hierarchical structure that is suitable for applications like nano-filters. This review emphasizes the importance of interconnected porosity in developing advanced ceramic materials with tailored properties for various applications. Interconnected pores play a vital role in facilitating mass transport, improving mechanical properties, and enabling fluid or gas infiltration. This level of porosity control allows for the customization of ceramic materials for specific purposes, including filtration, catalysis, energy storage, and biomaterials.

Influences of hybrid fiber on functional and drilling characteristics study of polymer hybrid Nanocomposite

The severe environmental pollution related to the manufacturing, recycling and disposal of metal-based and synthetic fiber-based composites has a major impact on human and animal life. A wide range of studies are conducted on alternative materials in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Various industries are focusing on using natural fibers from banana, jute, coir, hemp, pineapple, areca, kenaf, Sterculia foetida and Delonix regia that are the key sources of different components for developing nanocomposites. Drilling is a vital factor in the assembly process of composites. The amorphous structure of the natural fibers causes the formation of cracks at the entry and exit sides of the drilled hole. So, in the present work a nanocomposite was synthesized and optimized the machining parameters, which affect the surface finish of the hole at the entry, exit and inner surface of the drilled hole. The effect of the hybridization of glass fiber with the pineapple leaf fiber and areca fiber was studied in terms of tensile properties, delamination around the hole and surface roughness. The microstructure of the holes was studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy.