Composite Materials (EBT 429/3)

  The purpose of this wide-ranging introductory text is to provide a basic understanding of the underlying science as well as the engineering applications of composite materials. It explains how composite materials, with their advantages of high strength with stiffness, together with low weight and other desirable properties are formed and discusses the nature of the different types of reinforcement and matrix – and their interaction. Methods of production, examples of typical applications and essential data are all included.  Composite materials: Engineering and scienceis based on a successful long-running course at Imperial College, London, and the numerous worked examples combined with a comprehensive set of problems and self-assessment questions (with answers) provide an excellent text for senior undergraduate and graduate courses in materials science, engineering and physics. It will also be invaluable to any designer or professional engineer new to the composite materials field.

"Extensively revised and maintaining the high standard of the popular original, this book reflects the many recent developments in the mechanics of composite materials. New and up-to-date information throughout the text brings modern engineering students everything they need to advance their knowledge of the ever more common composite materials."--BOOK JACKET.

In 1997, Dr. Kaw introduced the first edition of Mechanics of Composite Materials, receiving high praise for its comprehensive scope and detailed examples. He also introduced the groundbreaking PROMAL software, a valuable tool for designing and analyzing structures made of composite materials. Updated and expanded to reflect recent advances in the field, this Second Edition retains all of the features-logical, streamlined organization, thorough coverage, and self-contained treatment-that made the first edition a bestseller. The book begins with a question-and-answer style introduction to composite materials, including updated material on new applications. The remainder of the book discusses macromechanical analysis of both individual lamina and laminate materials; micromechanical analysis of lamina including elasticity based models; failure, analysis, and design of laminates; and a new chapter devoted to symmetrical and nonsymmetrical beams. New examples and derivations were added to the chapters on micromechanical and macromechanical analysis of lamina, and the design chapter includes two new examples: design of a pressure vessel and a drive shaft. The author also added key terms and a summary to each chapter. Updated PROMAL software is available at the author's Web site, updated frequently, along with new multiple-choice questions. With superior tools and complete coverage, Mechanics of Composite Materials, Second Edition makes it easier than ever to integrate composite materials into your designs with confidence.

This book covers all the aspects of composite materials and concepts of composite technology. Beginning with various types of composites being currently used, it explains in depth, various matrix materials and reinforcements which combine to form different types of composites and the factors contributing their selection; design of composite materials; factors governing matrix and reinforcement selection and other processing techniques. The concept of PMCs, CMCs and carbon-carbon composites with specific emphasis on the future applications of composites and its technology are discussed in detail.

Over much of the last three decades, the evolution of techniques for characterizing composite materials has struggled to keep up with the advances of composite materials themselves and their broadening areas of application. In recent years, however, much work has been done to consolidate test methods and better understand those being used. Finally, a consensus regarding the best available methods exists, and definitive recommendations can be made. Experimental Characterization of Advanced Composite Materials provides a concise, authoritative treatment of the best available methods for determining the mechanical properties, thermal expansion coefficients, and fracture and strength data for composite materials. With emphasis firmly on practical matters, it presents processing techniques, specimen preparation, analyses of test methods, test procedures, and data reduction schemes. Five chapters that cover specific aspects of lamina testing are followed by discussions that extend these principles to laminate responses. The treatment concludes by exploring composite durability issues with discussions on defects and fracture mechanics. With its concise format, detailed procedures, and expert assessments, this book is an outstanding resource for composites manufacturing and test engineers and lab technicians. It brings together all of the most appropriate and widely accepted test test methods developed to date.