# An Overview of Smart Composites for the Aerospace Sector
## 4 Discussion
### Thematic Map  
Figure 14 presents the thematic map, categorizing research topics based on their development degree (density) and relevance (centrality): (i) motor themes, (ii) basic themes, (iii) niche themes, and (iv) emerging or declining themes.  
The upper-right quadrant (motor themes) contains the most developed and central topics, including smart materials, polymer-matrix composites, piezoelectric materials, and finite element methods. This position emphasizes how important they are to aeronautical applications, especially when designing multifunctional and adaptable structures. Their extensive use in airplanes, spacecraft, and other cutting-edge aerospace systems, where performance, weight reduction, and energy efficiency are critical, demonstrates their relevance.  
The lower-right quadrant (basic themes) includes structural health monitoring, self-healing, and carbon nanotubes, indicating well-established but continuously evolving areas  
Figure 13: Keywords co-occurrence network.  
that form the foundation of smart composite research. They are less likely to produce quick breakthroughs due to their basic character, but they do contribute to the safety and dependability of aerospace structures by serving as the essential foundation for more sophisticated aerospace technologies.  
The upper-left quadrant (niche themes) features EMI shielding and MXene, suggesting specialized research directions with growing interest but limited impact on the broader field. These topics have the potential to address issues including enhancing electromagnetic compatibility and developing innovative, high-performance materials. Their specialized market indicates that they are still in the early phases of development, but as new uses and production techniques are developed, they can grow considerably.  
Finally, the lower-left quadrant (emerging or declining themes) includes 3D/4D printing and additive manufacturing, which, despite their current peripheral role, may gain prominence as fabrication technologies for next-generation aerospace composites. The production of aerospace composites may undergo a revolution as fabrication technologies develop and become more affordable. These technologies offer previously unheard-of levels of customization, material efficiency, and rapid prototyping capabilities, which may eventually result in the creation of next-generation aerospace structures.  
The future of smart composites in the aerospace industry is geared towards developing even more efficient, sustainable, and adaptive solutions. The integration of emerging technologies such as 4D printing, advanced self-healing materials, and ultra-high sensitivity embedded sensors will enable more accurate real-time monitoring and unprecedented structural optimization. In addition, the combination of innovative nanomaterials, such as MXenes, carbon nanotubes, or graphene foams, promises significant improvements in electromagnetic interference shielding and energy efficiency of airborne systems. In parallel, exploring more sustainable manufacturing methods and implementing circular economy strategies will be key to reducing the environmental impact of these materials. As demand for lighter, safer, and more efficient aircraft grows, collaboration between academia, industry, and regulators will be essential to drive the adoption of these advances and cement the role of smart composites in the aviation of the future.  
Figure 14: Thematic map of the topic.