24. Composites

Question 1

What are the general names of the two different phases in a composite

Answer 1

matrix

dispersed/reinforcing phase

Question 2

List some advantages and disadvantages to fibre based composites

Answer 2

pros
- good combo of stiffness, strength and fracture toughness
cons
- often expensive
- difficult to process
- difficult to detect damage or cracks
- can withstand tension but not compression

Question 3

What happens if none of the fibres in a composite are bound to the matrix?

Answer 3

no load transfer occurs and the whole thing becomes only as strong as its individual parts

Question 4

Why is a matrix with fibres better than just fibres?

Answer 4

it stops cracks from propagating directly from fiber t fiber

Question 5

Which way are the fibres facing relative to the tensile stress in isostress?

Answer 5

perpendicular to the tensile force

Question 6

Which way are the fibres facing relative to the tensile stress in isostrain?

Answer 6

parallel to the tensile force

Question 7

isostrain is the _____ condition and isostress is the ____ condition

Answer 7

ideal

worst