Composites

Question 1

What are composites and what are they used for?

Answer 1

combination of 2 or more materials, weight saving, corrosion resistance, non-conductivity or other special properties

Question 2

What is the reinforcement part of a composite?

Answer 2

• Provides stiffness and strength
• Continuous or discontinuous
• Can be oriented to accommodate applied stresses

Question 3

What is the matrix part of a composite?

Answer 3

• Bonds and protects the fibres
• Transmits and distributes the load to reinforcement
• Separates fibres. Even if some fibres fail, matrix can prevent
catastrophic failure
• Gives appearance and shape

Question 4

What are the classifications of composites?

Answer 4

Particle reinforced, fibre reinforced and structural

Question 5

What are the different types of matrixes?

Answer 5

polymer, metal and ceramic

Question 6

how does ply fail?

Answer 6

Cracks form in the plies that are transverse to the loading direction
These cracks multiply, eventually spreading into the 0°plies.
This results in a multiplicity of cracks and a small
reduction in Young’s modulus.
Eventually large delaminations form parallel to the plies,
so compressive strength is lost.