Mechanical Performance and Sustainability of Polymer Composites—A Critical Review

In the wake of Industry 4.0, marked by unprecedented technological advancements, the field of materials science has witnessed a surge in research endeavors aimed at enhancing the mechanical performance of materials while concurrently minimizing their weight. Polymer composites have emerged as frontrunners in this pursuit, showcasing unique properties and synergies unattainable by traditional materials. This critical review delves into the intricate interplay of mechanical performance and sustainability within the realm of polymer composites, unraveling the multifaceted advancements that have propelled their predominant role in critical sectors such as aeronautics, automotive engineering, and various industrial applications. The review emphasizes the mechanical properties crucial for diverse applications, particularly focusing on friction, durability, and wear performance. By synthesizing and comparing experimental findings alongside microstructure studies conducted under various mechanical loading conditions, valuable insights into the nuanced behavior of polymer composites are distilled. Moreover, the article explores the integration of novel composite materials, such as marble dust and silica, showcasing their potential to augment mechanical properties across various applications. The review culminates in a comprehensive guide for researchers, providing insights into the intricate process of material ratio selection to achieve predetermined mechanical strengths in composite materials. Overall, this refined abstract serves as a precise overview of the critical review, emphasizing its focus on elucidating the mechanical performance and sustainability aspects of polymer composites.