Materials

A composite is a combination of two or more materials yielding properties superior to the individual ingredients. One material is in the form of a particulate or fiber (called the reinforcement or discrete phase). The other is formable solid (called the matrix or continuous phase). The region where the reinforcement and the matrix meet is called the interface. Composite properties are determined by chemical mechanical interaction at the interface as well as the properties of the combined materials.

Plastic resins are the formable matrix within the composite. Virtually all of the physical properties are strongly influenced by the resin. Most resins used in composites are the thermosetting type - once formed they cannot be reformed, and they do not melt or flow. Thermoplastics are also used in lower temperature applications. Although resins are sometimes used neat with fibers, most often they are enhanced with synergistic organic and inorganic additives to provide additional functionality.

Resins Options

Fibers are the reinforcing portion of the composite and are selected based on mechanical properties and process considerations.

Commonly Used Fibers

Successful application of composite materials requires careful tailoring of the constituents using combinatorial chemistry. MFG Research Company employs several disciplines to develop cost effective material solutions for specific applications.

Return to Top