Natural fibre and polymeric matrix composites and their applications in aerospace engineering

Abstract

Fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials are fast gaining ground as preferred materials for construction of aircrafts and space crafts. In particular, their use as primary structural materials in recent years in several technology- demonstrator front - line aerospace projects worldwide has provided confidence leading to their acceptance as prime materials for aerospace vehicles. Fibre polymer composites alongside aluminium alloys are the most used materials in aircraft structures. The use of composites in civil aircraft, military fighters and helicopters has increased rapidly since the 1990s, and it is now competing head-to-head with aluminium as the material of choice in many airframe structures. The use of composites in gas turbine engines for both civil and military aircraft is also growing. The main reasons for using composites are to reduce weight, increase specific stiffness and strength, extend fatigue life, and minimise problems with corrosion.