Composites - Definition

COMPOSITES - DEFINITION

Composite materials, are a combination of two or more materials that are different in chemical composition. The materials are blended to create a material with superior structure and better properties than the constituent materials.

Composite materials can be a combination of various materials, such as plastics, metals, fibers or ceramics.

However, the properties of a composite material depend on the properties, structure, and proportion of the constituent materials. Figure 4.1 shows how two different materials combine materials to form a composite material.

Composites usually consist of two parts, the matrix and the reinforcements. The matrix holds the reinforcements, transfers the load to the reinforcements, and protects them from mechanical and environmental damage. The reinforcements carry most of the load and provide stiffness.

Some composite materials exhibit better properties than the constituent materials, such as metals or plastics. Therefore, composite materials are preferred over other materials in applications such as aircraft manufacturing, space vehicles, electronics and sporting goods.