Metal-Reinforced Thermoplastics: A New Frontier in Structural Materials

Thermoplastic composites are cutting-edge materials that combine thermoplastic resins with reinforcing fibers that provide unique qualities and processing capabilities over traditional materials. A growing number of sectors like aerospace, consumer goods, medical, automotive and others are utilizing these composites increasingly. Aerospace industries employ thermoplastic composites extensively because of its excellent impact resistance, lightweight nature, and environmental sustainability. Metal-filled thermoplastic composites are upcoming advanced materials that combine thermoplastic resins with metal fillers to enhance specific properties such as thermal, electrical conductivity, damage tolerance, corrosion resistance, high fatigue and flame retardancy. The ultimate characteristics of Metal-filled thermoplastic composites are determined by multiple factors, including the metal particles shape, morphology, porosity, and dispersion. This review article renders some vital information about different kinds of metallic fillers and matrix material, applications, manufacturing process, mechanical, thermal, wear, and buckling properties, as well as the joining process of metallic filled polymer composites in various industries.