Composite materials & 4 Examples

Consists of two or more materials with different properties, this combination improves: - the reinforcement - the matrix, which binds the reinforcement together FIBRE GLASS & CARBON FIBRE REINFORCED POLYMER(CFRP): - Fibres in these composite materials have low density, are strong in tension (not easily stretched but flexible) - The polymer resin which binds the fibres together is not strong but it is stiff. The composite materials show a combination of these properties. They are strong, stiff and lightweight CHIPBOARD: - Wood itself is a natural composite material. It consists of a reinforcement of cellulose fibres bonded together by a matrix of lignin - The fibres are aligned alongside each other, so wood is stronger in one direction than it is in the other - Chipboard contains randomly arranged wood chips bonded together by a glue, so it is strong in all directions REINFORCED CONCRETE: - The properties of concrete can be improved by reinforcing it with steel rods or mesh - Concrete's compressive strength is higher than its tensile strength but steels tensile strength is higher than its compressive - This allows reinforced concrete to be strong and slightly flexible, which is important when constructing large buildings and structures