Dear Colleagues,

The use of fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs) in more and more structural components, and the rising number of materials available in conjunction with the lack of standardisation, are increasingly leaving manufacturers facing a difficult choice. The types of fibre and polymer matrix determine the performance in terms of the mechanical properties, processability, cost efficiency, durability, and sustainability. But what should be the emphasis of the selection process? In recent years, it has been shown that in many applications, it is not the maximum fibre properties but the interfacial properties that are important. This is especially true when the composites are exposed to severe environmental conditions (e.g., higher humidity), however, at the same time, knowledge about their lifetime properties is essential. However, far too often the structure of the fibre–matrix interface is hardly known.

In this Special Issue dedicated to the fibre-to-polymer adhesion and the interfacial strength in FRPs, original research papers and reviews, are welcome. The aim is to increase knowledge about the long-term behaviour of reinforcing fibres of all kinds, and their interfaces in polymer composites. For this purpose, studies dealing with the effects of moisture, temperature, salinity, or UV radiation are particularly desirable. Fundamental studies (experimental or modelling) on fibre sizing or treatments, as well as investigations on single fibres, bundles, or laminates are also desirable.

I hope that this Special Issue will provide to the scientific community both an insight to the fibre–matrix interphase and their lifetime determining properties.

Prof. Dr. Bodo Fiedler
Guest Editor

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• Glass fibre reinforced polymers (GFRP)
• Carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP)
• Natural fibre reinforced polymers (NFRP)
• Interface/Interphase phenomena
• Sizing and surface modification
• Durability and long term effects
• Mechanical properties
• Hygrothermal properties
• Transverse failure / strength
• Experimental techniques / modelling
• Condition monitoring