materials

• What is a composite material?

  • Contains two or more materials with different properties.
  • Typically, there are two components: the reinforcement and the matrix.
• Why do composite materials have a wide range of different properties?

  • Made of several materials, allowing tailored properties.
  • Different reinforcements and matrixes lead to varying properties.
• What should be used to construct large buildings: reinforced concrete or fibreglass? Why?

  Reinforced concrete because it is strong in compression and tension and slightly flexible.
• What should be used to make tennis rackets: timber or fibre reinforced plastic? Why?

  Fibre reinforced plastic because it has a low density, is lightweight, and is flexible and strong in tension.