Composites

• What is a composite material?

  A material with two or more different materials
• What are two commonly used composites?

  CFRP and GRP
• What properties do CFRP and GRP have?

  Lightweight, corrosion resistant, tough, hard, low thermal expansion
• How can CFRP and GRP be moulded into 3D forms?

  Using the lay-up method
• Why are CFRP and GRP suitable for sports equipment?

  Due to their lightweight and corrosion resistant properties
• What should you know about composites for product design?

  Composite name, constituent parts, and advantages over traditional materials
• What are the different types of composites, their properties, and applications?

  • CFRP: Carbon fibres mixed with polyester resin, lightweight, corrosion resistant, tough, hard, low thermal expansion, used in sports equipment
  • GRP: Glass fibres mixed with polyester resin, lightweight, corrosion resistant, tough, hard, low thermal expansion, used in boat hulls and sports car bodies
  • Tungsten carbide: A cermet, hard, tough, resistant to high temperatures, corrosion resistant, used in cutting tools
  • Aluminium composite board: Aluminium sheets with a polyethylene core, lightweight, rigid, tough, malleable, good thermal and sound insulation, used in soundproofing panels
  • Concrete: Cement powder, sand, aggregate particles mixed with water, high compression strength, low tensile strength, few surface defects, easy to mould, used in pathways and house foundations
• What is the definition of a composite?

  A material with two or more different materials
• What is the meaning of the term composite material?

  A material with two or more different materials
• What are the constituent parts of aluminium composite board?

  Aluminium sheets and polyethylene core