Chapter 2 Composite Materials

Composites are combined materials created by the synthetic assembly of two or more components – a selected reinforcing agent and a compatible matrix binder – in order to obtain specific and advanced characteristics and properties. The components of composite do not dissolve or other-wise merge completely into each other, but nevertheless do act in concert. The components as well as the interface between them can usually be physically identified, and it is the behavior and properties of the interface that generally control the properties of the composite. The properties of a composite cannot be achieved by any of the components acting alone.