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1900-1920
Early airplanes, like those of the Wright brothers, were built primarily with wood frames covered in fabric. These materials made the planes lightweight but fragile. This type of construction was common during World War I and, while economical and easy to repair, it lacked durability and strength in extreme conditions . -
1930-1940
During World War II, aluminum became the preferred material for aircraft due to its combination of strength and lightness. Planes like the B-17 Flying Fortress and the Spitfire heavily relied on metal structures, enabling faster planes with greater load capacities . -
1950-1960: Monocoque and Semi-Monocoque Structures
The development of monocoque designs, where the outer structure bears load, and semi-monocoque, which combines an internal frame with a strong outer shell, improved aircraft durability. These designs led to the production of larger and safer planes like the Boeing 707 and Douglas DC-8, pivotal in expanding commercial air travel . -
1970-1980: Fiberglass composites
To further reduce weight, the industry began to use composite materials like fiberglass, primarily in smaller parts such as fairings and interior panels. Although mostly limited to minor components, this technology set the stage for the later, broader use of advanced materials in aviation . -
1980-1990: Carbon fiber composites
In the 1980s, carbon fiber became widely adopted in structural components due to its high strength and lightness. The Boeing 777 was among the first to incorporate carbon fiber in critical parts, setting a precedent for both commercial and military aircraft . -
2000-2010: Advanced materials
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, launched in 2011, was one of the first to feature a fuselage made mostly of carbon fiber. Titanium was also used in areas exposed to high temperatures and stress, such as components near engines. These materials significantly reduced weight and increased fuel efficiency . -
2010-today
In modern aerospace, metamaterials and “smart” structures are being developed that can adapt to changing flight conditions. Additionally, 3D printing technology now allows for the creation of complex, optimized components, which is crucial in spacecraft and projects such as those by SpaceX .