The Role of the Polymeric Matrix in the Processing and Structural Properties of Composite Materials

The state of development of composite materials is quite unique in the scientific world with simultaneous advances being made both in their usage and basic understanding. The complexity and high technology required in manufacturing structural parts with these materials as well as the need for fundamental description of their processing and property characteristics necessitates a close col laboration between industrial and academic researchers. This col laboration has become significant not only in solving specific tech nical problems, but in providing a much needed supply of scientists with training and background focused on anticipated demand for further advances in composite usage. The fact that the transportation industry with its current international character has a vital interest in composite materials for weight savings applications has provided a strong incentive for extending these developments beyond national boundaries. An excel lent example of an established international venture is the building of the new generation commercial aircraft by the Boeing Company with composite parts manufactured by Aerita1ia in Italy. Accordingly, we organized a Joint U. S. -Italy Symposium on Composite Materials in Italy which was successfully held on June 15-19, 1981, under the primary sponsorship of NSF in the U. S. A. and CNR in Italy. The strong support we also received from industrial co-sponsors, both from Italy and the U. S. A. , as well as our respective academic insti tutions gave us confidence that we were addressing a timely and important area in Science and Engineering with a unique concept.