What
A composite, also known as GVK (glass fiber reinforced plastic) or GRP (glass reinforced plastic/polyester), is a plastic based on polyester or vinyl ester resins and glass. There is a wide range of resin types or glass types available.
Origin
Composite was invented in the USA. Someone accidentally spilled Bakelite on their clothes. When they tried to remove the dirty stain after work, they found that the stain had hardened and could no longer be removed. With this knowledge, scientific experiments were carried out. Later, Bakelite printed circuit boards were reinforced with linen fabric (brown printed circuit boards) and Pertinax.
Structure
Composite is made up of different components or raw materials. Often, these refer to fiber-reinforced plastics. The fibers are responsible for transferring tensile forces. The matrix (often a plastic) holds the fibers together and ensures the transfer of compressive forces and shear stresses. The most well-known fibers used in composites are glass fiber, aramid, and carbon fiber. The most common matrices are polyester and epoxy resins.
Applications
Composite materials are often used in objects for various sports such as car racing, cycling, and canoeing. In sports such as speed racing, where stiffness is important, carbon fiber is chosen. In sports such as all-around touring canoeing, where impact resistance and toughness are important, aramid fiber is chosen.
- Glass fiber reinforced structures are mainly used in shipbuilding (hulls of fast yachts), bridges, storage silos for animal feed, …
- Carbon fiber reinforced structures are mainly used in Formula 1, aircraft construction, boat building, …
- Aramid fiber reinforced structures are mainly used in bulletproof doors and vests
- Various fiber types can also be combined: plates can be made from finely ground natural stone and plastics. These strong plates are used in kitchens as countertops, as flooring, or as wall coverings. Polyester and epoxy (thermosetting) matrix materials are used for this purpose.
