In this paper, an introduction to the aspects of composites and adhesive joints elevant t.o non-destructive testing is provided. The first part consists of a brief mtroductlOn to composites and adhesive joints, together with a description of the types of defects that may occur. In the second part, the main relevant nondestructive techniques used to identify these defects are described and the sensitivity of each method to the different types of defect is indicated. MSTj941