Materials and Processes Used in Aircraft Construction focuses on issues involving the use of plastics in the aerospace industry. A detailed discussion of their various applications is included, along with the innovations presented in the literature over the past decade. A wide range of important topics are discussed in the 13 chapters. Following a brief presentation of the evolution of aircraft design, aircraft design standards, and the simulation of aircraft models, individual chapters focus on: The basic and special materials used in aircraft construction;Lightweight materials for aircraft applications;Polymers used in the aerospace industry;Laminated materials used in the aerospace industry;Wing, helicopter, and balloon designs;Issues concerning the monitoring and management of the health of flight crews and passengers;The benefit of information acquired in real time, leading to an increased understanding of the fracture mechanics of composites, improving confidence in their use, and broadening their applications. Since the cost of inspecting aircraft is approximately one-third of the cost of acquiring and operating composite structures, to compete in the increasingly demanding area of aircraft structures, the cost-effective techniques that need to be developed are discussed. Audience This book will serve the needs of those working in the aerospace industry, both those with only a passing knowledge of the field and specialists who need to increase their knowledge of any particular area.