Composites Flashcards
What are composites?
Composites are materials with different chemical or physical properties that are combined together and do not dissolve into each other, retaining individual properties for enhanced flexibility and lightweight.
What are the two main components of composites?
The two main components of composites are the matrix material, which surrounds or binds the other material, and the reinforcement, which is the fiber bound by the matrix material.
What are early examples of composites?
Early composites include mud/clay combined with plant material to form bricks for construction, and concrete made from small stone/gravel, cement, and sand, which is still used today and can be reinforced with metal wire or rod.
What is Glass-fibre Reinforced Polymer (GRP)?
GRP, known as fiberglass, is made from strands of glass to form a flexible matrix or fabric. The thickness of glass strands produces different weights and strengths of GRP.
What is the composition of GRP?
GRP is composed of polyester resin (matrix) and glass fiber (reinforcement).
What are the applications of GRP?
GRP is used for batch production, producing identical finishes, and is applied in car bodies, water tanks, swimming pool slides, and boat hulls.
What is Carbon-fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)?
CFRP is an expensive composite known for having the best strength-to-weight ratio, with resistance to stretching, being lightweight, and very strong.
What is the composition of CFRP?
CFRP is made from high tensile strength carbon fibers and polymer resin.
What are the applications of CFRP?
CFRP is extensively used in the aerospace industry due to its high tolerance to heat and replaces traditional heavier metals. It is also used in marine, automotive, defense, sport, and leisure.
What is Kevlar?
Kevlar is a synthetic fiber developed for high performance, known for being super strong, flexible, and lightweight, and is 20 times stronger than steel.
What is the composition of Kevlar?
Kevlar is a composite material formed when woven fabric is combined with resin.
What are the applications of Kevlar?
Kevlar is known for its use in bullet-proof vests and other personal protective equipment.
