Composite Materials

Definition of a composite material

A material made from combining two or more non-homogeneous substances, that is matrix substance and strengthening substance

The example of composite material

Wood

The function of matrix substance

Surrounds and binds the strengthening substance together

The example of matrix substance

Lignin

The example of strengthening substance

Cellulose fibres

Materials to produce the innermost layer of optical fibre

Silica glass fibres (strengthening substance)

Materials to produce the second layer of optical fibre

Glass or plastic (matrix substance)

Materials to produce the outermost layer of optical fibre

Plastic that acts as a protective jacket (matrix substance)

The function of optical fibres

To transmit information and data in the form of light

The uses of composite material

To make helmets, car bumpers and printed circuit boards