Composite materials

Composite material: produced by combining two or more different materials to create an enhanced materia

Glass reinforced plastic (GRP):

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Good strength to weight ratio
  • Good tensile strength
  • Can be repaired easily (patch kits etc)
  • Corrosion resistant
  • Durable
  • Brittle/can shatter easily
  • Not very heat resistant

Uses: Piping, boat hulls, fighter planes


Carbonfibre reinforced plastic (CRP):

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Lightweight
  • High tensile strength
  • Durable
  • Corrosion resistant
  • Good electrical conductor
  • Can break/shatter
  • Brittle
  • Relatively expensive

Uses: F1 cars, bicycles, tennis rackets


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