Handbook of Advances in Braided Composite Materials

Book excerpt: There has been a major resurgence of braiding in worldwide manufacturing and new testing technologies using imaging processes are now being employed. This has allowed significant findings and a better understanding of braided materials. The Handbook of Advances in Braided Composite Materials, Second Edition extensively reviews the properties, design, and manufacturing, testing and next generation applications of braided composite materials. Following the introductory chapter and the opening topic of working with the enclosed composite apps, Part One discusses manufacturing processes and advanced testing of braided composite materials. Part Two then looks at predicting properties and designing braided composite materials, including mechanics for braided composite materials such as micromechanics, macromechanics and ply mechanics. Advances in 2D and 3D modeling, as well as design of braided composite materials, are also covered. Finally, Part Three provides information on the applications of Next Generation braided composite materials. These topics consist of shape memory composites, nanostructures in braids, electrospinning, braidtrusion and green braids. The book presents up-to-date technology developments and recent research findings, along with an android and IPhone App to support design criteria, which is available via an online open source platform provided by the editor. Industrial manufacturers of braided composites, academic researchers working in the design and development of braided composites, professional engineers and postgraduate students will find this book an essential read. - Covers new developments in advanced testing methods and imaging technology - Presents new findings in manufacturing and material properties - Discusses new developments in sustainable green braided composites, and in 3D braiding