Single-Polymer Composites: Concepts, Realization and Outlook: Review

Abstract

Manufacturing, properties and applications of single-polymer composites (SPCs) have been surveyed. SPCs composed of amorphous or semicrystalline matrices and semicrystalline reinforcements were only considered because of their present and future relevance. Various concepts to enlarge the temperature difference between the matrix- and reinforcement-giving materials were listed and those applied commercially were discussed. The development of SPCs is fueled by the demand for various products which have low density and “ultimate” recyclability, namely reprocessing via remelting. At present SPC, parts are mostly used in the automotive, and sport/leisure sectors. Research activities target the production productivity, novel shaping technologies of SPCs, and ensuring their multifunctionality.