Review of advanced composite structures for naval ships and submarines

The recent applications of fibre-reinforced polymer composites to naval shi ps and submarines are reviewed. Since the mid-1980s the use of composites h as increased considerably as the military strive to reduce the acquisition and maintenance costs and improve the structural and operational performanc e of naval craft. A wide range of new applications of composites to naval v essels are described, including their current and potential use in the supe rstructures, decks, bulkheads, advanced mast systems, propellers, propulsio n shafts, rudders, pipes, pumps, valves, machinery and other equipment on l arge warships such as frigates, destroyers and aircraft carriers. Potential applications of composites to submarines are also described, such as their possible use in propulsors, control surfaces, machinery and fittings. The growing use of composites in the complete construction of fast patrol boats , mine-hunting ships and corvettes is discussed. For each application the m ajor benefits gained from using composites instead of conventional shipbuil ding materials, such as steel and aluminium alloys, are identified. The pap er also outlines the main drawbacks of using composites in naval vessels. ( C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.