10.3.4

Polymers & Composites

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Composites

Composites are made by embedding a material known as the reinforcement (fibres or fragments) into the matrix (material that surrounds the reinforcement, acting as a binder). Some examples of composites are:

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Fibreglass

  • The matrix is a polymer.
  • The reinforcement is glass fibres.
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Concrete

  • The matrix is cement.
  • The reinforcement is a combination of sand and gravel.
Illustrative background for Carbon fibreIllustrative background for Carbon fibre ?? "content

Carbon fibre

  • The matrix is a polymer.
  • The reinforcement is carbon fibres or carbon nanotubes.

Jump to other topics

1Atomic Structure

2Chemical Bonding

3Quantitative Chemistry

4Chemical Changes

5Energy Changes

6The Rate & Extent of Chemical Change

7Organic Chemistry

8Chemical Analysis

9Chemistry of the Atmosphere

10Using Resources

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