ABSTRACT

Thermoplastic matrix composites constitute a significant fraction of the overall composites market. Even though thermosetting composites still dominate composites use in the medium to high performance applications segment, the use of thermoplastics has continued to rise steadily since their rebirth in the early 1980s. This trend is expected to continue and is due to the fact that thermoplastics bring certain advantages over thermosets. These include improved mechanical properties such as toughness and chemical resistance. In addition, thermoplastics provide the potential for process automation and lower cost. Both result from the ability to fabricate finished parts without the curing step required in thermoset processing. In addition, postprocessing or reprocessing of thermoplastic composites is possible.