Polymer Matrix Composites and Metal Matrix Composites: A Comparative Review for Aeronautical Structural Applications

The aerospace industry continually seeks advanced materials that provide superior mechanical strength, high stiffness-to-weight ratios, and thermal stability while reducing overall structural mass. Among the leading candidates, polymer matrix composites (PMCs) and metal matrix composites (MMCs) have emerged as pivotal materials shaping modern aeronautical design. While PMCs dominate applications requiring lightweight and corrosion-resistant structures, MMCs excel in high-temperature and high-load environments. This paper presents a comprehensive comparative review of PMCs and MMCs, focusing on their fundamental properties, fabrication techniques, structural performance, and suitability for various aeronautical applications. The review discusses microstructural behavior, interfacial bonding mechanisms, fatigue life, and thermal stability differences between the two composite systems. Additionally, it evaluates recent advancements in hybrid metal-polymer composites that bridge the performance gap between PMCs and MMCs. The discussion concludes with future research trends emphasizing multifunctional, smart, and sustainable composites for next-generation aircraft structures.