Fiber Metal Laminates (FMLs), a class of hybrid materials combining the benefits of metals and composites, have emerged as promising lightweight structural materials. Consequently, research interest in FML production technologies is growing. According to a thorough analysis of the state of the art, the effectiveness of surface treatments in influencing the bond strength, formability, and durability of components during FML manufacturing still needs to be better understood. This paper compares several functionalization strategies to optimize the surface characteristics that lead to superior FML quality: burnishing, laser texturing, sandblasting, and chemical etching. Each method will be appropriately set up to alter the surface’s initial characteristics and, consequently, the adhesion performance for the subsequent stages. Moreover, sustainability considerations are also considered during surface functionalization processes. This study aims to assess and optimize these techniques for reduced environmental impact, considering energy efficiency and waste reduction. By integrating sustainable practices into FML manufacturing, this research seeks to enhance the overall environmental profile of these advanced materials.

Fibre Metal Laminates (FML), a class of hybrid materials combining the advantages of metals and composites, have emerged as a promising alternative for producing lightweight structural materials. Consequently, research interest in FMLs is growing. This paper delves into the primary properties of FMLs, production techniques, potential applications, and functionalization strategies to optimize surface characteristics for superior FML quality. Additionally, the sustainability aspects of FML production are analyzed due to climate change and increasing environmental concerns. This comprehensive review aims to provide a detailed understanding of FMLs, highlighting their benefits and addressing the challenges associated with their use and production.

Fiber-metal laminates (FMLs) are increasingly used in the aerospace industry due to their superior mechanical properties, such as high strength, fatigue resistance and impact tolerance. However, achieving optimal interfacial bonding between metal layers and fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets remains a challenge, as this interface is critical for the overall performance of FMLs. This study focuses on enhancing the interfacial bonding strength between metal and FRP sheets through advanced surface treatment techniques applied to the metal layers. Specifically, two surface treatments burnishing and laser texturing are explored for their potential to improve mechanical properties. Burnishing is employed to induce compressive residual stresses and refine the metal surface, while laser texturing is used to create micro-scale surface patterns that increase surface roughness and promote better adhesion. Experimental results show that both treatments, especially in the case of the laser treatment, significantly improve the bonding strength and enhance the mechanical performance of the FMLs, particularly in terms of tensile strength and delamination resistance. These findings provide valuable insights into the optimization of FML manufacturing processes to meet the increasing demand for lightweight, high-performance composite materials.

The use of cutting fluids in machining is crucial for optimizing process performance. In light of increasing environmental regulations, there is growing scrutiny on the role of cutting fluids in manufacturing processes. The adoption of environmentally-friendly approaches in metal cutting holds significant economic, social and technological implications. This paper focuses on the milling operation of a non-conventional material, such as Ti-alloy, from an environmental perspective, examining the material removal process across various performance aspects. Specifically, three different cooling conditions - wet, Minimal Quantity Lubrication (MQL), and dry - are assessed. Additionally, for each coolant condition, a range of process parameters, including cutting speed and feed rate, are considered to evaluate their impact on the overall environmental performance of the operation.