Bioinspired Aluminum Composite Reinforced with Soft Polymers with Enhanced Strength and Plasticity

Abstract

Composites have played a key role in revolutionizing the automobile, marine, and aerospace industries. There is a constant attempt for the development of low‐density composite materials with superior mechanical and corrosion‐resistant properties for elevated temperature applications. Herein, an attempt is made to develop a nature‐inspired unique aluminum‐based composite with low‐density polymer (polyethylene terephthalate, i.e., soft material) reinforcement, which shows an enhancement in strength and toughness. The composite is processed using the easily scalable and simple friction stir processing technique. Mechanical properties of the uniformly reinforced aluminum composite show double ultimate strength and fivefold improvement in plasticity. The ultimate strength of the composite increases at elevated temperatures. The experimental observations are further supported by theoretical calculations and molecular dynamics simulations.

Bioinspired Polymers: Bridging Nature’s Ingenuity with Synthetic Innovation

“…Advanced processing techniques, along with a commitment to sustainability through methods, such as friction stir processing [56], self-assembly [59], and atom transfer radical polymerization [60], enable precise control over material structure and properties. The emphasis on sustainable practices, including the use of green materials [52] and applying PDA films for surface functionalization [63], reflects a dedication to minimizing the environmental footprint.…”

“…Processed using the friction stir processing technique, showing enhancement in strength and toughness. [56] Platelet-reinforced polymer films with CuS hexagonal nanoplatelets and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)…”

“…Ceramic/polymer composites with a lamellar structure have shown improved mechanical performance [54]. Innovations include a doubling of strength and a fivefold increase in plasticity in aluminum composites reinforced with soft polymers, processed using a friction stir technique [56]. Engineering hierarchical structures in nanocomposites has led to superior mechanical properties and multiscale deformation mechanisms [9], while bioinspired mineralization techniques have significantly bolstered composite mechanical properties for better reinforcement [11].…”