Hasan Aftab Saeed , Yasser Riaz Awan , Hamza Saleem Khan , Abdur Rehman Mazhar , Shahid Aziz , Dong-Won Jung
{"title":"Ballistic performance of lightweight ceramic-metal composite armour plates under blunt projectile impact","authors":"Hasan Aftab Saeed , Yasser Riaz Awan , Hamza Saleem Khan , Abdur Rehman Mazhar , Shahid Aziz , Dong-Won Jung","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2025.100558","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2025.100558","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The importance of well-designed armour for mitigating threat to life cannot be overemphasized. Possibility of single and multi-layered configurations, various potential materials and their sequence and the gap in between makes the design of effective lightweight armour a complicated challenge. In the present work, nonlinear finite element analysis is used to find the ballistic performance of various combinations of composite bi-layered armours of Weldox 460 E, AA7075-T6, and SiC impacted by blunt projectiles with velocities ranging from 100 - 400 m/s. The material models employed to mimic material behaviour that accommodate high strain rates, plastic deformations and the shockwave phenomenon associated with ballistic impacts are JH1, JC, and SCG. The ballistic performance and the prevailing failure modes for each combination are observed and validated using experimental results. To help improve the design of armour, the various combinations are subjected to a range of test conditions, ranked in terms of weight and their complete ballistic profile is presented. It is found that ceramic front plate proves to be advantageous in improving the ballistic performance, which makes one of the SiC - AA7075 bi-layered composite plates the lightest of the lot. Furthermore, the best AA7075 - Weldox combination also outperformed monolithic Weldox plate in ballistic performance as well as in weight reduction, having the additional merit of being the configuration with the smallest thickness.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100558"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2025-01-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101258","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Kevin K. Thomas , Noha M. Hassan , Zied Bahroun , Mahmoud Awad
{"title":"Exploring the role of shape memory alloys in advanced composite sandwich panels and laminates","authors":"Kevin K. Thomas , Noha M. Hassan , Zied Bahroun , Mahmoud Awad","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2025.100557","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2025.100557","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Smart materials have garnered significant attention in material research due to their remarkable ability to react to external stresses and retain their original shape. This paper presents a systematic review of the integration of shape memory alloys (SMAs) into composite structures, underscoring a pioneering frontier in smart materials research. Analyzing a large number of research publications, the review offers critical insights into the latest trends and innovative approaches in embedding SMAs into composite structures. The analysis is methodically divided into two categories based on loading conditions: static and dynamic. This review not only highlights the significant potential of SMAs in composite applications but also identifies key research gaps and future directions. The main research gap is the potential of SMA implementation in the core structure of sandwich panels emerging as a particularly promising avenue for future research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100557"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2025-01-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101259","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mu'tasim Abdel-Jaber , Rawand Al-Nsour , Ahmed Ashteyat
{"title":"Flexural strengthening and rehabilitation of continuous reinforced concrete beams using BFRP sheets: Experimental and analytical techniques","authors":"Mu'tasim Abdel-Jaber , Rawand Al-Nsour , Ahmed Ashteyat","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100556","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100556","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The introduction of Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) materials marks a significant step forward in sustainable construction practices. This study investigates the use of externally bonded low and high-dense BFRP sheets to enhance the flexural strength and durability of reinforced concrete (RC) beams with compressive strengths of 20 and 32 MPa. Analyzing a total of ten two-span RC beams, each with a length of four meters, the study included four beams that were strengthened using low-dense sheets and four beams that were rehabilitated with high-dense sheets after being subjected to 70 % of their ultimate load capacity. Additionally, two beams were used as control samples to compare the effects of the strengthening and rehabilitation techniques. The research demonstrates the effectiveness of BFRP in boosting structural integrity. The findings revealed substantial improvements in flexural strength, with increases ranging from 22.6 % to 80 %, along with enhanced ductility. These results were closely aligned with predictions made using Finite Element Modeling, underscoring the potential of BFRP sheets in advancing the performance and longevity of RC beams. Theoretical outcomes agreed well with experimental findings, in alignment with the ACI 440.2R-08 guidelines.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100556"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101255","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Amir Ekladious , John Wang , Nabil Chowdhury , Wing Kong Chiu
{"title":"Mechanical performance of hybrid double- and step-lap joints in primary metallic aircraft structures: An experimental and numerical approach","authors":"Amir Ekladious , John Wang , Nabil Chowdhury , Wing Kong Chiu","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100554","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100554","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Hybrid joints, combining adhesive bonding with mechanical fasteners, address the limitations of traditional joining methods in restoring the integrity of aircraft structures. This study evaluates the static strength of double- and step-lap joint configurations, representing repairs in thin and thick metallic aircraft structures, through experimental testing and finite element analysis. Aerospace-grade 7075-T6 aluminium alloy was used for the adherends, with film adhesives and fasteners arranged in typical airframe patterns. The three-dimensional finite element (FE) models incorporated non-linear adhesive properties, fastener preload, contact interactions, and frictional forces. The FE results aligned well with experimental findings, capturing key failure modes and load distributions. Hybrid double-lap joints exhibited strength comparable to bonded joints while mitigating their brittle failures through fasteners that provided additional load-bearing capacity. In thicker step-lap joints, the hybrid configuration nearly restored the parent material’s inherent stiffness, with a moderate strength reduction due to the reduced bond area from the bolt holes, while enhancing elongation capabilities and resistance to localised stress concentrations. Stress analyses highlighted a transition from adhesive-dominated to fastener-dominated load transfer under high loads, demonstrating key interplay between adhesive and mechanical fasteners in hybrid joints. This study presents part of a systematic assessment of the mechanical performance and damage tolerance of the hybrid joining technique, compared with adhesively bonded and mechanically fastened methods, in metallic aircraft structures.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100554"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101257","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Imen Feki , Mohammadali Shirinbayan , Samia Nouira , Robert Tie Bi , Jean-Baptiste Maeso , Cedric Thomas , Joseph Fitoussi
{"title":"Composites in high-pressure hydrogen storage: A review of multiscale characterization and mechanical behavior","authors":"Imen Feki , Mohammadali Shirinbayan , Samia Nouira , Robert Tie Bi , Jean-Baptiste Maeso , Cedric Thomas , Joseph Fitoussi","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100555","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100555","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Environmental protection and sustainable development remain key concerns for all stakeholders. In this context, hydrogen has emerged as a particularly promising energy vector for electricity and heat generation, contributing to the transition toward clean energy solutions. However, the refueling of high-pressure hydrogen tanks can lead to a rapid increase in the internal temperature of the storage cylinder, potentially causing a decrease in the state of charge, damage to tank walls, and, ultimately, safety concerns. This paper provides a detailed review of hydrogen storage technologies, with a particular focus on Type IV tanks for automotive applications. These tanks, characterized by a polymer liner fully wrapped in carbon fiber composites, are pivotal for achieving high-pressure containment while maintaining lightweight properties. To understand and address critical challenges, the study conducts an in-depth examination of the mechanical behavior and failure mechanisms of laminated composites across multiple scales. Through advanced multiscale characterization methods, including infrared thermography, X-ray tomography, acoustic emission, and digital image correlation, the research investigates how these materials respond under impact and cyclic loading conditions. Key failure mechanisms, such as matrix cracking, fiber breakage, and delamination, are explored to elucidate their progressive development and impact on the structural integrity of composites. The study also examines residual properties following dynamic loading to provide a comprehensive understanding of long-term performance under real-world conditions. Findings emphasize the importance of multiscale coupling from macro to microstructure to achieve accurate modeling and prediction of composite behavior. Insights from this research aim to optimize the design and durability of hydrogen storage systems, enabling safer and more efficient implementation in the automotive sector. This review concludes by summarizing the implications of these findings for enhancing the performance and safety of high-pressure hydrogen storage technologies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100555"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101256","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hudhaifa F. Ismael, Saad M. Raoof, Muyasser M. Jomaah
{"title":"TRM verses FRP in torsional strengthening of RC beams","authors":"Hudhaifa F. Ismael, Saad M. Raoof, Muyasser M. Jomaah","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100553","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100553","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper aims to assess the effectiveness of TRM and FRP in torsional strengthening of RC. The examined variables were: the type of bonding agent (epoxy resin versus cement mortar), the material of the textile fibers (dry carbon and coated glass), the strengthening configurations (partially & fully) and the strengthening orientation (45°&90°). Thirteen large-scale beams were casted, strengthened, and tested monotonically up to failure. One used as a control, six specimens were strengthened with TRM and the rest six specimen were retrofitted with FRP. It was mainly found that: (a) the effectiveness of TRM composites in increasing the torsional capacity was approximately similar to that of FRP composites; (b) the Carbon fiber textile was more effective than glass fiber textile in enhancing the torsion capacity in FRP strengthened specimens. In contrast, the coated glass fiber textile performed better than the carbon fiber textile in the TRM reinforced specimens; (c) the 45° strengthening orientation in the TRM was less effective than the 90° strengthening orientation due to the premature debonding at the ends. This was not the case in the FRP where the 45° strengthening orientation showed higher torsional strength than that of 90°.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100553"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101254","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Kouider Bendine , Mael Belouettar-Mathis , Henri Perrin , Ahmed Makradi , Levent Kirkayak , Salim Belouettar
{"title":"Composite ski boards: Parametric geometric modelling and finite element analysis of ski-snow contact dynamics","authors":"Kouider Bendine , Mael Belouettar-Mathis , Henri Perrin , Ahmed Makradi , Levent Kirkayak , Salim Belouettar","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100548","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100548","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, we introduce a comprehensive computational model for the design and performance evaluation of composite snow ski boards. The proposed approach and model involve the precise adjustment of the ski’s profile through parametric geometric modelling, followed by an in-depth evaluation of its structural behaviour using finite element analysis (FEA). This allows for a robust qualitative and quantitative assessment approach that aims to significantly enhance the design and performance of ski boards. The integration of parametric modelling and finite element analysis facilitates a more efficient and iterative design process, allowing for the optimization of various geometric parameters to achieve desired performance characteristics.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100548"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101252","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Manirao Ramachandrarao , Sanan H. Khan , Kassim Abdullah
{"title":"Carbon nanotubes and nanofibers – reinforcement to carbon fiber composites - synthesis, characterizations and applications: A review","authors":"Manirao Ramachandrarao , Sanan H. Khan , Kassim Abdullah","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100551","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100551","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Carbon fiber composites are experiencing growing utilization in engineering applications due to their exceptional strength and stiffness properties. Nevertheless, there are still certain limitations in their mechanical and physical properties of carbon fiber composites that need to be addressed to meet the demands of modern scenarios in aerospace, automobile, energy, marine, civil construction, medicine, naval and military applications. A critical study was conducted to investigate various carbon-based nanotubes (CNTs) aimed at enhancing the mechanical and physical properties of carbon fiber composites. This study comprehensively describes the synthesis of CNTs using diverse methods, including in-depth discussions on their processing techniques, characterization, and applications in different fields. Down the stream the preparation of buckypaper and different preparation techniques of CNT-based buckypaper their potential outputs along with its advantages and limitations are discussed. It also highlights the challenges associated with the methods employed, evaluates their suitability, and outlines future avenues for development in the synthesis of CNTs, emphasizing the development of sustainable and scalable synthesis methods, such as Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) and Microfluidic synthesis by integrating 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies for the fabrication of carbon fiber composites.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100551"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101253","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hussain Gharehbaghi, AmirMohammad Shojaei, Mohammad Sadeghzadeh, Amin Farrokhabadi
{"title":"Residual stiffness and strength analysis of fatigue behavior in a 3D-printed honeycomb structure of continuous glass fiber-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composite","authors":"Hussain Gharehbaghi, AmirMohammad Shojaei, Mohammad Sadeghzadeh, Amin Farrokhabadi","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100552","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100552","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigates the fatigue behavior of composite honeycomb structures fabricated using the fused filament fabrication (FFF) technique with a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix and continuous glass fiber reinforcement. Fatigue testing was conducted at stress levels of 55 %, 65 %, and 75 % of the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) to develop S-N curves. All samples were fatigue tested in cyclic tension with a load ratio of R = 0.05. Additionally, the residual stiffness and residual strength of the honeycombs were evaluated at 30 %, 60 %, and 90 % of their average fatigue life. Results indicate that incorporating continuous glass fibers significantly enhances the fatigue life of the PLA honeycomb structures under cyclic tension loading. The fracture surfaces of the specimens were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing failure modes similar to those of traditionally manufactured composite honeycombs. The study underscores the potential of FFF in producing engineered composite honeycombs with superior fatigue properties, making them suitable for various high-load applications. The findings also highlight the importance of understanding the residual mechanical properties to predict the long-term performance and reliability of these materials in practical applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100552"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143100883","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jelle Joustra , Karel Brans , Irene Fernandez Villegas , Jos Sinke , Julie Teuwen
{"title":"Reverse forming thermoplastic composites: Design and process development","authors":"Jelle Joustra , Karel Brans , Irene Fernandez Villegas , Jos Sinke , Julie Teuwen","doi":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100550","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100550","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Structural reuse is a promising alternative to recycling of composite materials; it preserves material composition while liberating the materials for reuse in secondary applications. Thermoplastic reinforced composite materials have the potential to expand reuse opportunities by adapting their shape, or reversing them to a laminate blank. In this study, we evaluated reverse forming of glass fibre-polypropylene (GF-PP) laminates by developing a processing method, testing material properties and the effect of three design parameters: forming strain, laminate architecture and material type. Forming strain relates to the deformation mechanism of inter-ply slip, and is imposed through varying the contour depth and bending radius. Laminate architecture relates to resin redistribution, and is imposed by using an orthogonal as well as quasi isotropic layup. Finally, the material type affects both Inter-ply slip as well as resin redistribution, and is imposed by using plain and twill weaves. GF-PP blanks were prepared using a heated platen press and subsequently formed and flattened using convection heating (<165 °C) and vacuum pressure in a novel moulding process. The samples had typical values for flexural strength of 91 - 113 MPa and flexural modulus of 9–16 GPa. Using a Design of Experiments analysis the process was deemed robust for the given boundary conditions. These results demonstrate the feasibility of reverse forming for cases where inter-ply slip is the governing deformation mechanism. The presented reverse forming process and design parameters can be used to create new thermoplastic composite parts, anticipating for structural reuse through reverse forming.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34525,"journal":{"name":"Composites Part C Open Access","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100550"},"PeriodicalIF":5.3,"publicationDate":"2024-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143101210","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}