Thermoplastic Composites: Emerging Technology, Uses & Prospects

Thermoplastics composites are widely used nowadays. Their matrices are characterised by their aptitude to be repeatedly melted by heating and solidified by cooling, and this in a reversible way. The reinforcement add rigidity and strength to the matrix, thus making a material combining the properties of both constituents. Thermoplastic composites have become an area of increased interest due to their relatively low cost, wide range of mechanical properties, toughness, problem free storage, resistance to chemical attack, ease of processability, and above all their better recyclability. This book reviews emerging technologies, uses and prospects of thermoplastic composites. Chapter One summarises the preparation, structure-property relationships and potential applications of thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposites. Chapter Two discusses innovative thermoplastic PET powder coating in the telecommunications field. Chapter Three focuses on mechanical recycling of thermoplastic composites. Chapter Four provides a suggestion for standardising a traceable process for the determination of the mechanical properties of concrete containing thermoplastic polymers as aggregates.