composites 1

Question 1

what is a composite material?

Answer 1

contains two or more DISTINCT materials as a unified combination (alloys are not composites

Question 2

why would we use composites?

Answer 2

can achieve high strengths and stiffnesses
most efficient load bearing materials are commonly produced in fibre or particulate form, so must be put in matrices.

Question 3

how can composites be classified?

Answer 3

constitution and form

Question 4

what is the constitution of a composite?

Answer 4

its matrix (often polymers) and its reinforcement (could be metal, ceramic, polymer, inorganic glass)

Question 5

what are some different reinforcement forms?

Answer 5

continuous filaments, short/discontinuous fibres, or particulates

Question 6

what are the different spacial distributions for continuous fibres?

Answer 6

swirl mat, uniaxial, woven/cross stitched

Question 7

what are some advantages of composites? (mechanical, physical, chemical)

Answer 7

mechanical - enhanced toughness, high stiffness/strength, enhanced fatigue and creep performance
physical - controlled thermal expansion, conductivity, electrical stuff, better high temp behaviour
chemical - enhanced corrosion resistance