Functional, lightweight materials: outlook, future trends and challenges

Abstract

The growing demand for weight-saving engineering applications has led to the progress of lightweight composites with functional properties for an increasing number of applications. Lightweight materials with functional properties can be developed using a wide range of host matrices and reinforcement material. These large variety of possible combinations allow the development of new functional materials, structures and devices and that represent the present and the future of different engineering areas. Their novel properties combined with advanced manufacturing processes strongly increases the use of these materials in applications. This chapter presents some relevant challenges and an outlook on the future of this field.