The Essentials of Composite Materials: A Guide for Engineering and Beyond combines the theory of composite materials and their applications, with a focus on the main industries where they are used. Using the author's experience as a naval architect, boat builder, and composites designer, this book offers a guide to the selection of the most appropriate production processes, procedures, and materials for a particular project. It comprehensively covers polymer matrix composites, explaining what composite materials are, their components, and what they can be used for.

. Combines theoretical material with practical examples in a uniquely accessible way.

. Explores fabric structures, materials, resins, procedures, and manufacturing processes, including details that can only be discovered through hands-on work.

. Covers the more analytical side, explaining classical laminate plate theory, composite systems, strength, and failure criteria.

. Discusses applications in automotive, aerospace, civil, medical device, and naval industries.

This text serves as a practical tool for readers working in the composite fields as well as those looking to enter it.

Autorentext

Germán A. Pacheco is a naval architect, yacht designer, and composite technician with over 15 years of experience in the marine and aerospace industry. He studied Naval Architecture at the National University of Quilmes in Argentina; he has worked in Australia and other countries for leading naval and aerospace companies. His experience includes the design and construction of vessels-from racing yachts to ferries, catamarans, cargo ships, and patrol boats-as well as the development of composite components for the marine, aerospace, and agricultural sectors. He has also contributed to the field through teaching everything he knows from his experience related to composite materials.