Composites

What are composites?

• Two or more different materials combined together to create a new material with improved properties

Glass fibre reinforced polymer

Glass fibre mixed with resin, can be coloured and form into complex shapes, lightweight, chemical resistant, waterproof. used in car bodies, water tanks and boats

Carbon reinforced polymer

Carbon mixed with resin, light weight, heat resistant , waterproof. Used in sport car industry, aeroplane industry (heat resistance and weight to strength ratio) and sports equipment

kelvar

Very strong, lightweight and heat resistant. Used on bullet proof vests, armour for military. 5 times stronger than steel

Cure

allowing substance to harden and set

Matrix

The material in a composite that binds materials together

Reinforcements

The material in a composite that adds strength and structure