Materials - composites

Question 1

What is GRP?

Answer 1

chopped glass strands in a mat form as the reinforcement combined with polyester resin.

Question 2

Which composite is usually the cheapest?

Answer 2

GRP

Question 3

Advantages of GRP

Answer 3

lightweight
corrosion resistant
easily processed
easy to manufacture

Question 4

Disadvantages of GRP

Answer 4

Brittle - impact will cause cracking and it is difficult to repair which means the part will have to be replaced

Question 5

What is a kevlar/aramid carbon fibre composite?

Answer 5

Strong artificial fibre which can be woven into materials that is used for light and flexible body armour.

Question 6

Advantages of CFRP

Answer 6

good tensile strength
corrosion resistance

Question 7

Advantages of Kevlar/Aramid fibre composite

Answer 7

strong tensile strength
tough (used in bullet vests)
Can be made waterproof when combined with epoxy resin
can be combined with rubber to increase flexibility

Question 8

Advantages of Carbon Fibre Weave/resin

Answer 8

High temperature resistance
corrosion resistance
lightweight
high mechanical strength
high strength to weight ratio

Question 9

Disadvantages of Carbon Fibre Weave/resin

Answer 9

Not very tough
Tends to break
Expensive