Defects and Damage in Composite Materials and Structures

<p>The advantages of composite materials include a high specific strength and stiffness formability and a comparative resistance to fatigue cracking and corrosion. However not forsaking these advantages composite materials are prone to a wide range of defects and damage that can significantly reduce the residual strength and stiffness of a structure or result in unfavorable load paths. </p><p>Emphasizing defect identification and restitution<b> Defects and Damage in Composite Materials and Structures </b>explains how defects and damage in composite materials and structures impact composite component performance. Providing ready access to an extensive descriptive list of defects and damage types this must-have reference:</p><ul> <p> </p> <li>Examines defect criticality in composite structures</li> <li>Recommends repair actions to restore structural integrity</li> <li>Discusses failure modes and mechanisms of composites due to defects</li> <li>Reviews NDI processes for finding and identifying defects in composite materials</li> </ul><p>Relating defect detection methods to defect type the author merges his experience in the field of in-service activities for composite airframe maintenance and repair with indispensable reports and articles on defects and damage in advanced composite materials from the last 50 years.</p>