Lightweight Design: Friction-Based Welding between Metal and Polymer

The heterojunctions between metal and polymer have become the effective ways to produce the lighter, safer and more environmental friendly vehicles for the manufacturing fields of automotive and aerospace. The state-of-the-art friction-based welding techniques are characterized by low peak temperature, severe plastic deformation, energy efficiency and non-pollution, which can simultaneously realize the mechanical and chemical bonding, improving mechanical performances. In this review, the current progress about friction-based welding techniques is summarized, containing technical development, welding tool design, microstructural characteristic, process optimization, surface modification and joining mechanism. The conclusions and prospects are presented, which focus on the practical implications for the manufacturing sectors and recommendations for further research and development. The purpose of this review is to elucidate the benefits of friction-based welding techniques so that these methods may be better exploited and industrialized.