TYPES OF COMPOSITES

Composite Types Based on Matrix Constituents

There are three major types of composites based on matrix constituents. In

each of these systems, the matrix is typically a continuous phase throughout
the component.

1. Polymer Matrix Composite (PMCs)

It consists of various short or continuous fibers which are bound
together by an organic polymer matrix. Polymer matrix composite's
main function is to transfer the loads between fibers through the matrix.

Lightweight, high stiffness, high strength along the direction of their

reinforcements, abrasion resistance, and corrosion resistance are some
properties of polymer matrix composite.

2. Metal Matrix Composite (MMCs)

Metal matrix composites are usually made up of aluminum to give it
enough strength as it is less dense than iron, and hence is preferred in
the aerospace industry.

It is a material in which continuous carbon, silicon carbide, or ceramic

fibers are embedded in a metallic matrix material.

Major advantages of aluminum matrix composites are increased

specific strength, specific stiffness, and elevated temperature strength

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 in addition to improved wear resistance, lower density, and good
corrosion resistance.

3. Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMCs)

These are materials consisting of a ceramic or carbon fiber surrounded by a
ceramic matrix such as silicon carbide.

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Professor
Composite Types Based on Matrix Constituents Forms

1. Particulate Reinforced Composites

Particulate reinforced composites are composed of hard particle
constituents which are scattered in a softer matrix in an arbitrary manner.
Metallic particle dispersed in metallic, polymeric or ceramic matrices is an
example of particulate composite.

A widely used particulate composite is concrete in which gravel is

embedded in the cement paste.

2. Flake composites
This type of composite is produced by blending matrix material and thin
flakes. Despite the fact that flakes dispersion in the matrix is random, the
flakes can be made to align with one another forming a more orderly
structure compared to particulate composites.

3. Fiber Reinforced Composites (Fibrous Composites)

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It is composed of strong and stiff fibers which are held together by a matrix.
Fibers act as primary load-carrying constituent due to their strong
characteristics. The matrix serves as an agent to redistribute the loads from a
broken fiber to the adjacent fibers in the material when fibers start failing
under excessive loads.
Reinforcement composites are usually glass fibers, carbon fibers and
aramid fibers. Fibers are usually high strength, low-density materials that
possess good resistance to heat and corrosion and are easy to handle.

4. Laminated Composites

Laminated composites are made from completely bonded thin

elementary layers. These layers can be composites themselves; for
instance, fibrous composite layer. This type of composite is the most
commonly encountered laminated composite material used in high-
performance structures.

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Professor