Advances in joining technology of carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite materials and aluminum alloys

In order to discuss the problems involved in the joining of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite materials with aluminum alloys that is required for the production of several parts in aerospace, automotive, and other engineering applications, a comprehensive review of the research status of this dissimilar joint alloys both in China and abroad is made. The overview mainly includes adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, welding, and new joining techniques, as well as residual stress and corrosion performance of the joints. The current problems, development prospects, and future research direction of different joining technologies used in this field have been discussed. It is believed that the numerical simulation combined with the welding test can be used to further study the joining process of friction stir welding between carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite materials and aluminum alloys and the hybrid joining method of friction stir welding and adhesion.