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Flip to reveal answersDefine a composite.
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All 4 Flashcards — Composites
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Question
Define a composite.
Answer
Two or more materials combined to enhance their properties — a matrix that gives shape and a reinforcement that carries the load.
Question
What does the matrix contribute, and what does the reinforcement?
Answer
The matrix gives shape, surface and protection, and transfers load into the fibres so they cannot buckle. The reinforcement carries the load and stops the matrix cracking.
Question
Name four composites with their constituents.
Answer
GRP: glass fibre in polyester resin. Carbon fibre: carbon fibre in epoxy. Plywood: cross-bonded veneers in adhesive. Reinforced concrete: steel bars in concrete.
Question
Give two disadvantages of composites.
Answer
They cost more and are labour-intensive to lay up, they fail suddenly rather than bending first, and they are very hard to recycle because the constituents cannot be separated.
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Topic 3.1 hub
Material classification
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