Composite Materials

Composite materials are made by combining two or more different materials to create a new material with superior properties. These materials consist of:

• Matrix (binding material, e.g., polymer, metal, or ceramic)
• Reinforcement (strengthening material, e.g., fibers, particles)

Types of Composite Materials

1. Fiber-Reinforced Composites (FRC)

These use fibers to improve strength and stiffness.

• Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) – Used in boats, car bodies, and sports equipment
• Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) – Used in aerospace, high-performance cars, and bicycles
• Kevlar Fiber Composites – Used in bulletproof vests and protective gear
• Natural Fiber Composites – Uses fibers like jute, hemp, or flax in a polymer matrix

2. Particle-Reinforced Composites

These have small particles distributed in the matrix, improving hardness and wear resistance.

• Concrete – Cement (matrix) + sand/stone (particles)
• Metal Matrix Composites (MMC) – Metal (matrix) + ceramic/oxide particles (e.g., aluminum reinforced with silicon carbide)

3. Laminar Composites (Layered Composites)

Made by stacking layers of materials to achieve high strength.

• Plywood – Layers of wood glued together
• Laminated Glass – Two layers of glass with a polymer interlayer for impact resistance
• Carbon Fiber Laminates – Used in aircraft and sports equipment

4. Sandwich Composites

These have a lightweight core material between two strong outer layers.

• Honeycomb Structures – Used in aircraft and building panels
• Foam Core Composites – Used in surfboards and boat hulls

5. Hybrid Composites

Made from two or more types of reinforcement for combined benefits.

• Glass-Carbon Hybrid – A mix of glass and carbon fibers for cost-effectiveness
• Kevlar-Carbon Hybrid – Used in high-performance applications like racing cars