composites Flashcards
what’s the definition for a composite?
two or more materials combined together by some form of bonding.
why do we use composites?
improved mechanical, functional or aesthetic properties
what is glass reinforced plastic
thermosetting plastic resin reinforced with very fine glass
what are the two forms that glass can be in glass reinforced plastics
matting or strips
what property of the resin does the glass improve in glass reinforced plastics?
tensile strength becomes improved
what are two advantages of glass reinforced plastic?
-good strength to weight ratio
-very resistant to corrosion
what is a disadvantage of glass reinforced plastic?
can be prone to osmosis. (where water can seep into the the GRP and cause it to delaminate.
what is the first step in GRP production?
a high quality mould is produced
what happens after a high quality mould is produced in GRP?
a releasing agent is sprayed onto the mould
what happens after a gel coat is applied to the mould in the GRP manufacturing process?
resin + catalyst + glass are added in alternate layers into the mould
what is the third step of the production of GRP?
a gel coat in applied to the mould ( shiny and coloured)
what is the final step of the GRP manufacturing process?
it dries overnight and is removed from the mould.
what is a danger in the manufacturing process of GRP?
Toxic fumes can be released
what is carbon fibre composite made from?
a woven fabric of carbon fibre is layered in resin
which is stronger:
carbon fibre or GRP
carbon fibre
what property does the carbon fibre provide to the composite?
improves tensile strength
where is carbon fibre composite used?
aircraft, sports equipment and racecar manufacture
which composite will easily outperform any metal alternative?
carbon fibre
what is MDF primarily made from?
wood waste
how is wood waste made into MDF?
it is subjected to heat and pressure mixed with synthetic resin to bond fibres
what are two benefits of MDF?
it is easily worked and has no grain
what is a hazard of MDF?
fumes from glues, resins and fine fibres can irritate the skin, throat and nose
what ways can MDF bee enhanced?
it can be laminated , or veneered for furniture
what is a disadvantage of MDF?
it can be very heavy
