A composite is composed of two (or more) individual materials, which come from the categories discussed in previous articles; metals, ceramics, and polymers.
The design goal of a composite is to achieve a combination of properties that is not displayed by any single material, and also to incorporate the best properties of each of the component materials.
Some naturally occurring materials are also considered to be composites—for example, wood and bone.
However, most of today’s well-known composites are synthetic or man-made.
Fiberglass
One of the most common and familiar composites is fiberglass, in which small glass fibers are embedded within a polymeric material, normally an epoxy or polyester.
The glass fibers are relatively strong and stiff, whereas the polymer is ductile. Thus the resulting fiberglass is relatively stiff, strong, flexible, and ductile.
Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
Another of these technologically important materials is the Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite – carbon fibers that are embedded within a polymer.
These materials are stiffer and stronger than fiberglass, yet they are more expensive.
CFRP composites are used in aircraft and aerospace application, as well as high-tech sporting equipment.
