Review on Joining Technology of Aluminum Alloy and Resin Matrix Composites

The hybrid structures of metal-composites are widely used in the field of aerospace, marine and vehicle industry due to the advantages of high specific modulus and high specific strength of aluminum alloy and resin matrix composites. Therefore, the joining technology between metal and composites as one of the crucial factors in these industries has been paid more attention. In this research, the connection mechanism and influencing factors of the joining processes of resin matrix composites and aluminum alloy were reviewed. At present, bolt connection, rivet connection, adhesive bonding, injection molded direct joining and welding were studied for the connecting between aluminum alloy and resin matrix composites. The processes of bolt connection and rivet connection are simple, however, it is easy to produce the stress concentration around the hole. The cost of adhesive bonding is low, but the anti-impact and anti-stripping strengths of the interface are low. The production cycle in the process of injection molded direct joining is short, but the strength of the joint is also low. The degree of automation of the welding technology is high, however, the required equipment is expensive. Finally, the development direction of joining technology between aluminum alloy and resin matrix composites which can obtain the joints with high performance and high reliability is pointed out according to the current research results. Copyright © 2021, Northwest Institute for Nonferrous Metal Research. Published by Science Press. All rights reserved.