A microscopic mixture of two or more different materials.

One typically being the continuous phase (matrix), and the other being the discontinuous phase (reinforcement).

Fibers/Particles Reinforcement

Glass Carbon Silica Glass beads Thermoplastics Alumina Talc Boron SiC Carbon black Calcium Steel

Matrix

Protects & separates reinforcement, transmits forces Polymer Epoxy, polyester, polyurethane, rubber etc., Metal Al, Cu, Ni, Ti etc., Ceramic Glass, cement etc.,

Three types of matrixes produce three common types of composites. Polymer matrix composites (PMCs) Metal-matrix composites (MMCs) Ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs)

Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP)

Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) (also fibre-reinforced polymer) are composite materials made of a polymer( resin) matrix reinforced with fibres. The fibres are usually fibreglass, carbon, or aramid, while the polymer ( resin) is usually an epoxy, vinyl ester or polyester.

FRPs are commonly used in the aerospace, automotive, marine, and construction industries.

Characteristics of FRP

High Strength. High Resistance to Corrosion and Chemical. High Resistance to Elevated Temperature. High Resistance to Abrasion. Toughness. Light Weight.

Types of FRP
FRP Glass FRP Properties
Low density and Dielectic const High Tensile strength Corrosion resistance

Uses
Automobile parts Storage tanks Plastic pipes

Boron FRP
Carbon FRP

Excellent Stiffness Compressive Strength

Aircraft parts

Light density Resistance to corrosion Withstand High temp

Aircraft parts Solar panel

Alumina FRP

Good abrasion Creep resistance Dimensional stability

Components of engine parts in automobile industry.

ADVANTAGES

Ease in Fabrication, Manufacturing, Handling, and Erection. High Performance. Durability. Excellent Strength-to-Weight Ratio .