Composite Materials

What is a composite material?

A composite material is made up of two or more distinctly different materials, and when combined, form a new material with properties that are far superior than its individual components. Combining the different materials is a physical process rather than a chemical one in which the materials interact to yield properties not attainable by either alone.

 

Types of composites

natural composites - pic of wood

Wood is a naturally occurring composite. Many people don't realize that wood is a composite material. One look at its structure proves otherwise. Wood is composed of a complex array of cellulose cells reinforced by a polymeric substance call lignin and other organic compound.

everyday composites - pics of sporting equip (tennis racket, golf clubs, bicycle)

Some everyday items made from composite materials include sporting equipment. Sports equipment such as these are mode up of fiber reinforced composites. Common reinforcing fibers include carbon and graphite fibers used in tennis rackets, golf clubs and fishing poles.

medical composites - pic of dental amalgam, hydroxy apatite

Composites are also used in medicine. A trip to the dentist may lead to a mouth full of dental amalgam, or a visit to the hospital for some bone cement.

 

Useful engineering properties of composites

High structural strength
Lightweight
Resistance to chemical wear and corrosion
Toughness (impact strength)
Mechanical stiffness
Heat resistance
Ease of processing (manufacturing)

 

Why use composite materials?

Because composite materials are known for their structural strength and for being lightweight, many products that are manufactured today consist of composite materials. For example, in the production of the Boeing 777, the use of composite materials was chosen because of the overall savings in weight and corresponding fuel consumption, which would provide large economic benefits over the life of the aircraft.

insert pic of 777 lightweight composite structure