Resin-based Structural Composites Systems: Current Status, Problem, and Prospects

Resin-based structural composites have been widely applied in fields such as aviation, aerospace, military equipment, shipbuilding, new energy and rail transportation due to their outstanding characteristics including specific strength, specific modulus, corrosion resistance, fatigue resistance, and design flexibility. They have become indispensable strategic materials for national defense and economic development. After over 40 years of advancement in China, a complete technical system encompassing design, materials, manufacturing, and performance evaluation has been essentially established. This achievement has enabled independent supply of critical materials and supported structural lightweighting of major equipment. Through systematic analysis of the technical system and investigation of global development status regarding key raw materials, thermosetting resin matrix composites, thermoplastic resin matrix composites, and automated composite equipment, this study identifies existing gaps and challenges in China's development by comparing with international counterparts. Considering the demands of major equipment applications, it proposes recommendations for achieving high-level self-reliance and independent development, aiming to provide references for advancing the high-quality development of China's Resin-based structural composite system.