Composite
Source of knowledge: https://uwaterloo.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/EIC/pages/31727390705/Composites
Composites are comprised of at least two different elements which combine to yield a product possessing different properties and characteristics than those elements individually.
Main Types of Composites
- PMC: Polymer matrix composites use a resin (epoxy) as the matrix, and certain fibers (carbon fiber, fiberglass) as the structural reinforcement. Polymer matrix composites are the most common types of composites as a result of their ability to be transformed to complex shapes
- MMC: Metal matrix composites use a metal as the matrix (aluminum) strengthened with fibers (silicon carbide). These are often used in the automotive industry
- CMC: Ceramic matrix composites use ceramic as the matrix and are strengthened by small fibers (silicon carbide and boron nitride) for use in very hot environments