The Use of Polymer Nanocomposites in the Aerospace and the Military/Defence Industries

Abstract

Previously, applications of composites were limited to the military aerospace. This is because civilian aircraft with composites inclusions was considered to be too expensive. The use of composite in aircrafts, instead of steel, has resulted in lightweight aircraft structures and has consequently reduced the level of fuel consumption and costs of fuel, thereby reducing CO2 emissions. Undoubtedly, nanocomposites applications abound in several aspects of human life and the use of nanoparticle in materials dates back to the understanding of the nature of these materials. This chapter will focus on the use of nanopolymers in the aerospace and in the military. Particular attention will be given to nano military weapons, nanocoating for military applications, nanotechnology for military drones, nanotechnology in military suits, gloves, boots and nanotechnology in armored military vehicles, aircraft, and military ships and in military medicine.