A review of carbon fibre reinforced polymer–steel hybrid structures for dynamic mechanical systems

This paper reviews the suitability of carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP)–steel hybrid structures as load-bearing components of dynamic mechanical systems. The literature is evaluated against structural requirements, including load-carrying capacity, fatigue resistance and durability, and motion-related requirements, including inertial properties, vibration and damping. Static and fatigue findings are distinguished from direct measurements of dynamic response and from qualitative implications for multibody applications. The synthesis identifies configuration-dependent benefits in structural performance and selected vibration, damping and impact applications, while examining the limitations of transferring component-level findings to operating machinery. Design parameters are assessed in relation to the response quantities actually investigated; their effects on coupled system dynamics are not inferred from strengthening results alone. The available evidence supports preliminary design and feasibility assessment, but further validation is required for repeated acceleration and deceleration, damage-dependent dynamic properties and coupled multibody operation. The review provides an evidence-based framework for identifying applicable findings, design constraints and priorities for further investigation.