Composites

Question 1

What is a composite?

Answer 1

A material made from two or more different materials. Resulting in enhanced properties.

Question 2

Hardboard (compressed wood fibres).

Answer 2

One hard shiny smooth surface, does not split easily, tough.
Used in:
Furniture inserts such as wardrobe backings and drawer bases.

Question 3

Chipboard (wood chips compressed with a resin such as Urea Formaldehyde).

Answer 3

Good strength in all directions, easy to cut but can chip on a cut edge. Often veneered or covered with polymer laminate.
Used in:
Kitchen worktops and units.

Question 4

Plywood (thin layers of wood placed at 90 degrees to each other and compressed)

Answer 4

Good strength in all directions, no grain weaknesses .
Used in:
Indoor furniture and floorboards.