Ceramics and composites

• What is the primary use of soda lime glass?


  It is ideal for items such as windows and bottles
• How is soda lime glass made?


  By mixing sodium carbonate and limestone, then heating until it melts
• What is a limitation of soda lime glass?


  It has a relatively low melting point
• What is the main advantage of borosilicate glass over soda lime glass?


  It has a higher melting point
• What is borosilicate glass used for?


  For objects that require heating, such as kitchenware and labware
• What are clay ceramics commonly used for?


  Pottery and bricks
• How is clay formed?


  Clay is a mineral found in the ground that can be shaped when wet
• What happens to clay after it is shaped?


  It is heated in a furnace to harden
• What defines a composite material?


  • Composed of two different materials
  • Contains reinforcement (fibers or fragments)
  • Surrounded by a matrix or binder material
  • Exhibits different properties than the individual materials
• What is an example of a carbon fiber composite?


  Carbon fiber composite
• What are the properties of carbon fiber composites?


  They are very strong and light
• In what applications are carbon fiber composites commonly used?


  In cars and aircraft parts
• What is reinforced concrete made of?


  Steel bars surrounded by concrete
• Why is reinforced concrete used in buildings?


  Because it is extremely strong