02-03-2023

MET416 – COMPOSITE
MATERIALS

Module 3
Polymer Matrix Composites (PMC)

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 1

Introduction

Source:
https://www.slideshare.
net/BKLR/polymer-
matrix-composites

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 2

1
 02-03-2023

Introduction

Source:
https://www.slideshare.
net/BKLR/polymer-
matrix-composites

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 3

• Polymer Matrix Composite (PMC) is the material Introduction

consisting of a polymer (resin) matrix combined
with a fibrous reinforcing dispersed phase.
• Polymer Matrix Composites are very popular due to
their low cost and simple fabrication methods.
• PMCs have High tensile strength; High stiffness;
High Fracture Toughness; Good abrasion
resistance; Good puncture resistance; Good
corrosion resistance; Low cost.
• The main disadvantages of Polymer Matrix
Composites (PMC) are:
Low thermal resistance;
Source:
High coefficient of thermal expansion. https://www.substech.c
om/dokuwiki/doku.php?i
d=polymer_matrix_com
posites_introduction

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 4

2
 02-03-2023

Introduction

Source:
https://www.slideshare.
net/BKLR/polymer-
matrix-composites

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 5

Introduction

Source:
https://www.slideshare.
net/BKLR/polymer-
matrix-composites

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 6

3
 02-03-2023

Introduction

Source: https://www.slideshare.net/BKLR/polymer-matrix-composites

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 7

Introduction

Source:
http://frontdesk.co.in/co
nstruction-
materials/plastics/

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 8

4
 02-03-2023

Thermoplastic

Source:
https://www.slideshare.net/BKLR
/polymer-matrix-composites &
http://frontdesk.co.in/construction
-materials/plastics/

General properties:
Low melting point
Softer
Flexible Typical uses:
Bottles
Food wrappers
Toys

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 9

Thermoplastic

Source:
https://www.slideshare.
net/BKLR/polymer-
matrix-composites

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 10

5
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• Polyethylene (or polythene): Flexible use in Thermoplastic

packaging, electrical insulation, milk and
water bottles.
• Polypropylene: Stiff and hard and coarser
than the polyethylene. Low density. Use in
carpet fibers, automotive bumpers,
microwave containers, prosthetics.
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Rigid ,Tough and
elastic. Use in electrical cables cover, credit
cards, car instrument panels.
• Polystyrene: Solid and glass clear. Use in
disposable spoons, forks, etc. Source:
http://frontdesk.co.in/co
nstruction-
materials/plastics/

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 11

Thermoplastic
• Acrylics (PMMA: Polymethyl Methacrylate):
Glass clear and somewhat brittle. Use in
paints, plexiglass etc.
• Polyamide (Nylon): High density polythene.
Use in textiles and fabrics, gears, bushing
and washers, bearings.
• PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Use in
bottles for acidic foods like juices and food
trays.
• PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Use in
non-stick coating, raincoats, dental floss. Source:
http://frontdesk.co.in/co
nstruction-
materials/plastics/

Dr. Sreekanth. M. P 12