Composites used in aeronautical eng

Question 1

Glass fibre reinforced polymers

Answer 1

Usually called fibreglass. Fine glass fibres that are embedded in a resin matrix. GFPR is cheaper, heavier but not as strong as others. Could be found in planes and FML (Fibre metal laminates)

Question 2

Carbon fibre reinforced polymers

Answer 2

Carbon fibres embedded in a resin matrix. CFRP is very lightweight, very strong in certain directions and high modulus of elasticity. Many new and expensive planes or fighter gets use CFRP. Disadvantage is that it fails without any warning signs.

Question 3

Aramid fibres

Answer 3

Usually called Kevlar and is very similar to carbon fibres. The main difference is that they are more resistant to impacts and abrasion as they are usually used as bulletproof material. Its less brittle which CFRP fails at

Question 4

Fibre metal laminates

Answer 4

Similar to fibreglass but rather than a epoxy or polymer resin, the fibres sit between laminated metal sheets. This is used in GLARE or the main material for A380

Question 5

Metal matrix composites

Answer 5

Metal fibres in a metal matrix. This offers super good strength compared to other composites but is very heavy and expensive. Is used in super sonic jets.