Abstract

Joining is an integral part of manufacturing. Microjoining and macrojoining have been widely used to join metallic and polymeric parts. The parts are often joined via welding. The process often involves melting the parts and adding a filler material that resolidifies to form a strong joint. The energy source to melt the parts can be a laser beam, an electron beam, friction, or ultrasound. Sometimes pressure is applied to enhance the process. Brazing and soldering are also processes commonly used in metal joining. As nanomaterials become more prevalent, nanojoining gains importance. Nanojoining facilitates the assembly of nano-sized building blocks to form practical products. It can also involve the use of nanomaterials to assist joining in bulk materials. In this chapter, the unique properties of nanomaterials owing to the extremely small dimensions and joining of nanoparticles and nanowires via laser irradiation, solder reflow, application of energetic particles such as an electron beam or current, and other methods are discussed. The use of nanomaterials that assist joining of bulk materials by reducing the joining temperature is also reviewed. The addition of nanoparticles and nanotubes can also enhance the properties of the composites formed.