The quest for environmentally sustainable materials has led to a significant surge in interest in fibre-reinforced polymer composites across various industries. Despite the enthusiasm, the field faces challenges, notably microstructural defects introduced during manufacturing, such as fibre misalignment and porosity, which hinder their application in critical sectors like transportation and composite tool manufacturing. To overcome these challenges, a multidisciplinary approach is essential, one that unravels the complex relationship between processing techniques, microstructural analysis, and mechanical evaluations. A paradigm shift towards sophisticated experimental methodologies and a deep dive into theoretical modelling and numerical simulations is imperative for a comprehensive understanding of microstructural behaviour, mechanical and tribological property assessments, and meticulous damage monitoring under diverse conditions. This approach is crucial for maximizing the practical applications of composites. Advanced characterization methods, ranging from high-resolution imaging to cutting-edge tribological evaluations, are indispensable for exploring the nuanced relationship between composite structure and functionality. While these efforts are labour-intensive, they are foundational for mastering the principles underlying the composites' performance and reliability, thereby enhancing the development of more durable and efficient fibre-reinforced polymer composites. This progress is instrumental in integrating these materials into advanced transportation systems and tool manufacturing, markedly advancing the quest for sustainable, eco-friendly material solutions.

This Research Topic aims to illuminate recent breakthroughs in fibre-reinforced polymer composites, focusing on understanding damage and wear through the lenses of solid and tribological mechanics. We encourage interdisciplinary contributions that blend experimental testing, theoretical modelling, and numerical simulations to push the boundaries of our understanding. Specifically, we welcome contributions that address at least two of the following principal themes: (i) Experimental testing and characterization techniques, (ii) Friction and Mechanical Testing, (iii) Theoretical modelling, and/or (iv) Numerical simulation.

We invite a broad spectrum of contributions that apply both experimental and numerical methods to characterize polymer-matrix composites. Submissions may range from multi-modal microstructural characterization and comprehensive full-scale methods to in-situ techniques, innovative tribological strategies, and data-informed finite element analyses. Our goal is to foster cross-disciplinary collaborations that enhance our understanding of polymer-matrix composites and their applications, driving forward the scientific knowledge and technological advancements for their use in advanced tooling.

This Research Topic focuses on three critical scientific areas tailored for tooling applications within polymer-matrix composites:
1. Testing and Characterisation Techniques of Surface Contact:
• Examination of inherent non-linear behaviours in polymer-matrix composites under diverse loading conditions, with practical implications.
• Advancements in damage detection methods through sophisticated imaging or non-destructive testing, essential for pinpointing processing or in-service defects.
• Investigation of damage propagation mechanisms, showcasing instances where understanding has bolstered composite durability.

2. Friction-Based and Tribological Testing:
• Study of frictional behaviour at composite material interfaces, with a focus on implications for improved adhesion and industrial performance.
• Insights into fundamental wear and damage mechanisms, demonstrating material loss and surface deterioration in real-world applications.
• Development of modelling techniques that incorporate contact mechanics and material properties to optimise manufacturing processes and reduce surface wear.

3. Theoretical Modelling and Numerical Simulation for Damage, Wear, and Tribological Assessments:
• Advancement of multiscale modelling approaches to predict mechanical integrity and failure modes, enhancing our predictive capabilities and understanding of real-world applications.
• Application of finite element analysis (FEA) to elucidate the effects of microstructural traits on mechanical and tribological properties.
• Encouragement of submissions that include practical application case studies, demonstrating the translation of research findings into industrial implementations.

By focusing on these enriched areas, we aim to deepen our theoretical and practical understanding of friction, wear, and damage in polymer matrix composites, inviting original research articles and review papers that navigate these complex topics. Manuscripts should not only present advancements in characterization techniques and computational modelling but also emphasize innovative solutions and sustainable practices within materials engineering and industrial applications.

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Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering

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