Advanced Manufacturing: Polymer & Composites Science

Composite materials, amalgamating natural and synthetic fibers, have garnered significant attention in recent years owing to their multifaceted advantages and diverse applications. Combining the inherent properties of natural and synthetic fibers, these composites offer a unique blend of characteristics such as high strength, durability, lightweight, and sustainability. Natural fibers, derived from sources like plants, animals, and minerals, contribute eco-friendliness, biodegradability, and low cost, while synthetic fibers offer consistency, high mechanical strength, and versatility. This synergy allows for developing materials with tailored properties suitable for various applications spanning industries like automotive, aerospace, construction, marine, and sports equipment. These composites' fabrication processes involve hand lay-up, compression molding, and filament winding, each influencing the final properties of the material. Additionally, advancements in interface engineering, hybridization strategies, and compatibility between fibers and matrices have further enhanced the performance and applicability of these composite materials. As research in this field progresses, challenges such as achieving optimal fiber-matrix adhesion, scalability of production, and ensuring recyclability remain focal points, driving innovation toward more sustainable and high-performance solutions.

The proposed special issue aims to cover a broad spectrum of topics related to composite materials via natural and synthetic fibers with various fabrication techniques. Some of the key topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Mechanical properties of the composite materials fabricated by natural/synthetic fibers.
• Novel fabrication techniques for natural and synthetic fiber composites
• Characterization methods for assessing mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties
• Hybridization strategies to enhance performance and functionality
• Durability and aging behavior of composite materials
• Optimization of process parameter of composite materials by natural/synthetic fibers
• Sustainability aspects, including recyclability and biodegradability
• Interface engineering and compatibility between fibers and matrices
• Computational modeling and simulation of composite materials
• Bio-inspired approaches in composite design
• Challenges and future directions in the field of natural and synthetic fiber composites

The proposed special issue is motivated by the increasing demand for advanced composite materials evolving challenges in the aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing industries. Modern fabrication techniques with reinforcement particles offer unique advantages in composites materials, compatibility, and process efficiency. By bringing together cutting-edge research and practical insights, this special issue seeks to elucidate the fundamental principles, technological advancements, and industrial applications of composite materials.

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