Composites

Question 1

What is a composite material?

Answer 1

When 2 or more materials are bonded

Question 2

Why are composite materials created?

Answer 2

Improved properties (E.g. Aesthetics)

Question 3

What is the advantage of using composite materials?

Answer 3

Excellent strength to weight ratio

Question 4

What is GRP?

Answer 4

Glass Reinforced Plastic

Question 5

How is GRP manufactured?

Answer 5

Thermosetting plastic resin reinforced with fine glass

Question 6

Give 2 advantages of GRP

Answer 6

Good strength to weight ratio

Resistant to corrosion

Question 7

Give 2 disadvantages of GRP

Answer 7

Resin can shatter - Can’t be used in vehicles

Prone to osmosis

Question 8

What are the stages of manufacturing of GRP?

Answer 8

1. High quality mould prepared
2. Release agent sprayed into mould
3. Gel coat applied to mould
4. Glass matting, layers of resin and catalyst placed on mould
5. Layering up is done and left to cure overnight

Question 9

What is carbon fibre?

Answer 9

Thermosetting plastic resin and carbon fibres set on polymer matrix

Question 10

Why is carbon fibre preferential to GRP?

Answer 10

Much stronger

Question 11

What are the applications of carbon fibre?

Answer 11

High performance sports and structural applications (e.g. Aircraft, Racing helmets)

Question 12

What are the stages of manufacturing carbon fibre?

Answer 12

1. High quality mould prepared
2. Release agent sprayed in mould
3. Gel coat applied to mould
4. Carbon fibre, layers of resin and catalyst are placed onto mould
5. Layering up is done and left to cure overnight