Tailorability is an important advantage of composites. Incorporating new bio-reinforcements into composites can contribute to using agricultural wastes and creating tougher and more reliable materials. Nevertheless, the huge number of possible natural material combinations works against finding optimal composite designs. Here, machine learning was employed to effectively predict fracture toughness properties of multiscale bio-nano-composites. Charpy impact tests were conducted on composites with various combinations of two new bio fillers, pistachio shell powders, and fractal date seed particles, as well as nano-clays and short latania fibers, all which reinforce a poly(propylene)/ethylene–propylene–diene-monomer matrix. The measured energy absorptions obtained were used to calculate strain energy release rates as a fracture toughness parameter using linear elastic fracture mechanics and finite element analysis approaches. Despite the limited number of training data obtained from these impact tests and finite element analysis, the machine learning results were accurate for prediction and optimal design. This study applied the decision tree regressor and adaptive boosting regressor machine learning methods in contrast to the K-nearest neighbor regressor machine learning approach used in our previous study for heat deflection temperature predictions. Scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to study the nano-clay dispersion and impact fracture morphology.

Polyimide composites represent a class of advanced materials with remarkable mechanical robustness and thermal stability, making them highly suitable for applications in extreme environments. Their unique ability to maintain performance under high temperatures and corrosive conditions, combined with a favorable strength-to-weight ratio, positions them as critical components in aerospace, electronics, and automotive systems. Several leading aerospace and electronics corporations have made significant investments in incorporating polyimide composites into their products, indicating the material’s transformative potential. This review paper provides an overview of mechanical and thermal behaviors of polyimide composites, summarizing recent developments and research trends. It examines the influence of various reinforcements, processing techniques, and composite architectures on material performance under mechanical loading and thermal stress. The paper synthesizes findings from experimental studies and modeling efforts to highlight the critical factors affecting strength, durability, and thermal stability. Discussion and recommendations regarding applications in aerospace, electronics, and other high-temperature environments are provided, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities presented by these advanced materials. This review adopts a broad scope to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of polyimide research. Due to gaps in literature, this work aims to provide a foundational overview that supports future, more specialized investigations.