A review of recent research on mechanics of multifunctional composite materials and structures

In response to the marked increase in research activity and publications in multifunctional materials and structures in the last few years, this article is an attempt to identify the topics that are most relevant to multifunctional composite materials and structures and review representative journal publications that are related to those topics. Articles covering developments in both multiple structural functions and integrated structural and non-structural functions since 2000 are emphasized. Structural functions include mechanical properties like strength, stiffness, fracture toughness, and damping, while non-structural functions include electrical and/or thermal conductivity, sensing and actuation, energy harvesting/storage, self-healing capability, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, recyclability and biodegradability. Many of these recent developments are associated with polymeric composite materials and corresponding advances in nanomaterials and nanostructures, as are many of the articles reviewed. The article concludes with a discussion of recent applications of multifunctional materials and structures, such as morphing aircraft wings, structurally integrated electronic components, biomedical nanoparticles for dispensing drugs and diagnostics, and optically transparent impact absorbing structures. Several suggestions regarding future research needs are also presented. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.