Composites offer many advantages over conventional materials.
Generally, a composite material is composed of reinforcement (fibers, particles, fillers) embedded in a matrix of polymers. The matrix holds the reinforcement to form the desired shape while the reinforcement improves the overall mechanical properties of the matrix. When designed properly, the new combined material exhibits better strength than would each individual material. Different materials are suitable for different applications. When composites are selected over traditional materials such as metal alloys or woods, it is usually because of one or more of the following advantages:
Cost:
Low cost prototypes
Mass production
Weight:
Light weight
Weight distribution
Strength and Stiffness:
High strength-to-weight ratio
Directional strength and/or stiffness, for the same strength, lighter than steel by 80% and aluminium by 60%
Composite parts can be designed to provide a wide range of impact, tensile, and flexural strength properties.
Durability:
Well-designed composites have exhibited infinite life characteristics, even in extremely harsh environments and conditions.
Surface Properties:
Corrosion resistance
Weather resistance
Surface finish
Thermal Properties:
Low thermal conductivity
Composites can be made conducting or selectively conducting as needed.
