Composites and Structures

Matrix

The main material

Constituent

Materials mixed with the matrix

What does clay do

Embed particles

What do straws do

Balance

Particulate example

Asphalt

Laminar

Laminated glass

Fiber-reinforced composite example

Fiberglass

What do steel rods do

Strong & stretchy during tension to prevent cracking from spreading in a brittle material

Structural composites

Strength & stiffness, mechanical properties

Functional composites

Flexibility

Tensile strength

Increases as the cross section structure becomes larger

Compressive strength

The maximum capacity/pressure of a material or structure before breaking.

Isotropic material

Has strength and stiffness and no grain. Ex. Glass

Orthotropic material

Wood, fiber-reinforced composites (carbon fiber/glass fiber)

What is a strut

Resists compression (pushed from opposite ends)

Tie

Works in tension (pulled from opposite ends)

Column

Structures always in compression

Purpose of a column

Structures always in compression

Purpose of a beam

Carrys weight between columns

truss

Diagnol members usually found inside a structure that works in tension

Buttress

Provides resistance against forces pushing wall out