What are examples of composite materials?

Examples of composite materials include fibreglass, concrete, carbon fibre, wood, and engineered wood like plywood.

Composite materials are formed by combining two or more different types of materials, each with their own unique properties, to create a new material with characteristics different from the individual components. The aim is to combine the best properties of each component material.

Fibreglass is a common composite material made from fine fibres of glass woven into a cloth and bonded together with a plastic resin. The glass fibres provide strength and flexibility, while the resin makes the material tough and resistant to impact. This combination makes fibreglass strong, lightweight, and durable, making it ideal for use in boats, cars, and buildings.

Concrete is another example of a composite material. It is made by combining cement, sand, and aggregate (small stones). The cement and sand form a paste that binds the aggregate together. The result is a material that is strong and durable, but also has a degree of flexibility, making it ideal for use in construction.

Carbon fibre is a high-performance composite material. It is made by weaving thin strands of carbon into a fabric and then bonding it with a plastic resin. The carbon fibres provide strength and stiffness, while the resin provides toughness and resistance to impact. Carbon fibre is lightweight and extremely strong, making it ideal for use in high-performance applications such as aerospace and motorsport.

Wood is a natural composite material made from cellulose fibres bound together with a substance called lignin. The cellulose fibres provide strength and flexibility, while the lignin provides rigidity. Engineered wood, like plywood, is a man-made composite material. It is made by gluing together thin layers of wood, with the grain of each layer running at right angles to the one above and below it. This gives the plywood strength in all directions, making it a versatile and widely used material.