Joining: Mechanical Fastening of Polymers, Composites, and Polymer–Metal Hybrid Structures

Abstract

The development of new materials and fabrication techniques has become a matter of success for the industry. Polymers, polymeric composites, and polymer–metal structures are being increasingly employed in several products mainly because of the associated weight savings. Mechanical fastening is one of the main joining methods for polymer and polymeric composites along with adhesive bonding and welding. On the other hand, polymer–metal structures are more difficult to join by traditional joining methods, mostly because of their strong dissimilar physical-chemical features. Constant efforts on developing improved alternative joining techniques for these hybrid structures, such as the FricRiveting, injection clinching joining (ICJ), collar joining, and injection over molding, have contributed to the dissemination of such structures in industrial applications. This article intends to tackle the basic principles of the mechanical fastening for polymers, composites, and polymer–metal hybrid structures, with emphasis on the description of the main mechanical fastening techniques available for this category of materials as well as on recent developments with future short to medium term potential of industrial application. Finally, this work intends to show that the field of mechanical fastening of polymers, polymeric composites, and polymer–metal hybrid structures for industrial applications is still a growing research and development area. This is due to the increasing aspirations for more environmental friendly technologies and lightweight materials.