2010 – 14 – Characteristics of Composites

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A combination of metal, ceramic, and plastic in which any of these materials stays in its distinct form is called a composite. The materials will stay together as separate components — unlike composite metals. Composites are grouped based on the way its materials are mixed. A few examples include:

Particulate composites: Incorporate small bits of one material into a large portion of a different material. Concrete, for example, contains bits of gravel in cement.

Fibrous composites: Amalgamate slivers of one material into a separate material. For example, fiberglass combines slivers of glass into plastic.

Laminar composites: Are layers of different materials fused on top of each other. Plywood is a perfect example of a laminate composite: it’s layers of wood and glue.