Composite material
A material made by combining distinct constituents that retain separate identities, producing properties not found in the constituents alone.
Matrix (composites): The continuous phase in a composite that surrounds and binds its reinforcement. It transfers loads between reinforcement elements and protects them from damage.
Load transfer: The transfer of mechanical force between connected parts of a material or structure. A composite matrix must transmit applied force into its reinforcement for it to carry load.
Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer: A polymer composite reinforced with carbon fibers for high stiffness and strength at low weight. It is used where reducing structural mass matters, including aircraft and sporting goods.
Alloy: A material made by combining a metal with one or more other elements, usually forming a metallic solid solution or intermetallic phases. Unlike a typical composite, an alloy’s constituents often combine at atomic or microscopic scales into metallic phases.
Specific strength: A material’s strength divided by its density. High specific strength explains why fiber composites can reduce the mass of load-bearing structures.
Reinforcement (composites): A stronger or stiffer constituent embedded in a matrix to improve a composite’s properties. Its form, orientation, and material largely determine the composite’s strength and stiffness.
Rule of mixtures: An estimate of a composite property calculated from constituent properties and their proportions. It provides a first approximation of stiffness or density from constituent fractions.
Glass-fiber-reinforced polymer: A polymer composite reinforced with glass fibers, combining low density with corrosion resistance and useful strength. It provides a lower-cost alternative to carbon-fiber composites in boats, tanks, and building products.
Ceramic matrix composite: A composite in which a ceramic forms the matrix and a second phase provides reinforcement. It is a composite subtype designed to improve ceramic toughness and high-temperature performance.
Aircraft materials: Materials selected for aircraft structures, engines, and interiors under demands for low mass and reliable performance. Composite adoption changes aircraft weight, structural design, and inspection requirements.