Composites / Plastics: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
A Brief History of Kevlar
Introduction to Kevlar fibers and their properties.
Introduction to Kevlar fibers and their properties.
Vacuum Bagging: Basics - Composite Materials
Basic techniques for vacuum bagging laminates, from your About.com Guide
Basic techniques for vacuum bagging laminates, from your About.com Guide
Top 20 Engineering Achievements of the 20th Century
Neil Armstrong announced the 20 top engineering achievements of the 20th Century at a National Academvy of Engineering NAE meeting
Neil Armstrong announced the 20 top engineering achievements of the 20th Century at a National Academvy of Engineering NAE meeting
What's a Composite?
A brief description and definition of composite materials.
A brief description and definition of composite materials.
Fiber Volume Fraction of a Composite Materials
The volume of fiber in a cured composite.: glass fiber composites hydrogen peroxide chemical digestion volume fraction fiber volume
The volume of fiber in a cured composite.: glass fiber composites hydrogen peroxide chemical digestion volume fraction fiber volume
Fabric Terminology for Composite Materials
Definition of terms used to describe engineering fabrics.
Definition of terms used to describe engineering fabrics.
History of Composites
What is the history of composite materials? Find out when the first composite was used, and how composites have changed through the years.
What is the history of composite materials? Find out when the first composite was used, and how composites have changed through the years.
What Is a Composite
When two materials are combined to make a stronger material, a composite is made. Learn what makes composite materials unique, strong, and lightweight.
When two materials are combined to make a stronger material, a composite is made. Learn what makes composite materials unique, strong, and lightweight.
Carbon Fiber Manufacturers
Learn about the various companies around the world that manufacture raw carbon fiber used in lightweight composite products.
Learn about the various companies around the world that manufacture raw carbon fiber used in lightweight composite products.
thermoplastic vs thermoset
Thermoset vs thermoplastic composites, what is the difference? Both have advantages and there is demand for both thermoplastic and thermoset composites.
Thermoset vs thermoplastic composites, what is the difference? Both have advantages and there is demand for both thermoplastic and thermoset composites.
Benefits of Composites
Learn about the features and benefits of composite material.
Learn about the features and benefits of composite material.
Addition Polymerization
A chemical reaction in which simple molecules (monomers) are added to each other to form long-chain molecules (polymers) without by-products.
A chemical reaction in which simple molecules (monomers) are added to each other to form long-chain molecules (polymers) without by-products.
Filament Winding
Filament winding is a unique composite manufacturing process. Learn about the filament winding process, common products made, and the key advantages.
Filament winding is a unique composite manufacturing process. Learn about the filament winding process, common products made, and the key advantages.
Endurance Limit
The stress level below which a specimen will withstand cyclic stress indefinitely without exhibiting fatigue failure.
The stress level below which a specimen will withstand cyclic stress indefinitely without exhibiting fatigue failure.
Basic Resins
Polyester and vinyl ester resins are the two most common resins used in FRP composites. Learn why these resins work so well.
Polyester and vinyl ester resins are the two most common resins used in FRP composites. Learn why these resins work so well.
Wind Turbine Blades
As the trend for larger wind turbine blades continues, new materials and manufacturing technology will be required to meet this demand.
As the trend for larger wind turbine blades continues, new materials and manufacturing technology will be required to meet this demand.
Composite Surfboard
The composite surfboard combines advanced materials to make the ultimate board. Learn about the key materials of a composite surfboard, and the future of board design.
The composite surfboard combines advanced materials to make the ultimate board. Learn about the key materials of a composite surfboard, and the future of board design.
What Is Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber is a lightweight fiber used in advanced composites. Learn about what makes this material so unique and important.
Carbon fiber is a lightweight fiber used in advanced composites. Learn about what makes this material so unique and important.
Emerging Applications of Ceramic and Metal Matrix Composites
Many of the 500 papers presented during the 27th Annual Cocoa Beach Conference & Exposition on Advanced Ceramics & Composites focused on composites, both ceramic and metal matrix, and discussed mechanical behavior, design, fibers/interfaces, processing, and applications. Potential applications under development include components for armor, nuclear energy, and automobiles.
Many of the 500 papers presented during the 27th Annual Cocoa Beach Conference & Exposition on Advanced Ceramics & Composites focused on composites, both ceramic and metal matrix, and discussed mechanical behavior, design, fibers/interfaces, processing, and applications. Potential applications under development include components for armor, nuclear energy, and automobiles.
Polymerization
A chemical reaction in linking the molecules of a simple substance (monomer) together to form large molecules whose molecular weight is a multiple of that of the monomer.
A chemical reaction in linking the molecules of a simple substance (monomer) together to form large molecules whose molecular weight is a multiple of that of the monomer.
Thermal Capacity
The quantity of heat necessary to produce a unit change of temperature in a unit mass of a substance.
The quantity of heat necessary to produce a unit change of temperature in a unit mass of a substance.
Water Absorption
(1) The amount of water absorbed by a composite material when immersed in water for a stipulated period of time.
(1) The amount of water absorbed by a composite material when immersed in water for a stipulated period of time.
FRP properties
FRP composites have unique mechanical properties which provide benefits. Learn about the properties of fiber reinforced polymers.
FRP composites have unique mechanical properties which provide benefits. Learn about the properties of fiber reinforced polymers.
Sieving
Separation of a mixture of various-sized particles, either dry or suspended in a liquid, into two or more portions, by passing through screens of specified mesh sizes.
Separation of a mixture of various-sized particles, either dry or suspended in a liquid, into two or more portions, by passing through screens of specified mesh sizes.
Composite Wing Section - Composite Materials - Date: 11/24/97
Design of a typical composite wing, from your About.com Guide
Design of a typical composite wing, from your About.com Guide
Open Molding
Open molding is a low cost and effective way to manufacture composites. Learn about the two most common methods of open molding, hand lay-up and spray-up.
Open molding is a low cost and effective way to manufacture composites. Learn about the two most common methods of open molding, hand lay-up and spray-up.
Polyester Gel Coats
Polyester gel coats are composed of materials which allow for the manufacturing of high quality composite products. Learn what materials are used in gel coats, and why.
Polyester gel coats are composed of materials which allow for the manufacturing of high quality composite products. Learn what materials are used in gel coats, and why.
Composite Materials Properties Database
Database of composite material properties.: composite materials properties material properties database carbon graphite database material content database
Database of composite material properties.: composite materials properties material properties database carbon graphite database material content database
Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resins are advanced thermosetting resins used in FRP composites. Learn the basics of this resin, the chemistry, and the uses of epoxy.
Epoxy resins are advanced thermosetting resins used in FRP composites. Learn the basics of this resin, the chemistry, and the uses of epoxy.
Coupling Agent
A chemical substance capable of reacting with both the reinforcement and the resin matrix of a composite material.
A chemical substance capable of reacting with both the reinforcement and the resin matrix of a composite material.
Notch Sensitivity
The extent to which the sensitivity of a material to fracture is increased by the presence of a surface inhomogeneity such as a notch, a sudden change in section, a crack, or a scratch.
The extent to which the sensitivity of a material to fracture is increased by the presence of a surface inhomogeneity such as a notch, a sudden change in section, a crack, or a scratch.
Abrasion Resistance
The ability of a material to withstand mechanical action such as rubbing, scraping, or erosion, that tends progressively to remove material from its surface.
The ability of a material to withstand mechanical action such as rubbing, scraping, or erosion, that tends progressively to remove material from its surface.
Get Involved With Composites
Discover how composites are used in various industries, and how to become a part of the lightweight material movement. Learn about investing, starting, or running a composites company.
Discover how composites are used in various industries, and how to become a part of the lightweight material movement. Learn about investing, starting, or running a composites company.
Poiseuille's Equation
An equation for calculating the pressure drop of a fluid, in laminar flow, through a cylindrical tube.
An equation for calculating the pressure drop of a fluid, in laminar flow, through a cylindrical tube.
Application of Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber has properties that make it desirable in many applications. Learn about what products have adopted this lightweight and durable material.
Carbon fiber has properties that make it desirable in many applications. Learn about what products have adopted this lightweight and durable material.
Flexural Strength
The strength of a material in bending, expressed as the stress on the outermost fibers of a bent test specimen, at the instant of failure.
The strength of a material in bending, expressed as the stress on the outermost fibers of a bent test specimen, at the instant of failure.
Golf Club Market Report
A recent market report predicts a growth rate of over 25% annually in the Chinese and Indian golf club market. As the demand for high performance products has increased, carbon fiber composites have overtaken steel as the material of choice for golf shafts.
A recent market report predicts a growth rate of over 25% annually in the Chinese and Indian golf club market. As the demand for high performance products has increased, carbon fiber composites have overtaken steel as the material of choice for golf shafts.
CFRP Composites
Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP composites) are lightweight yet strong materials. Learn what make these space age materials so useful and desirable.
Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP composites) are lightweight yet strong materials. Learn what make these space age materials so useful and desirable.
Complex Viscosity of a Fluid
A frequency-dependent viscosity function determined during forced harmonic oscillation of shear stress.
A frequency-dependent viscosity function determined during forced harmonic oscillation of shear stress.
Fiberglass Insulation - Composite Materials Date: 06/29/98
How fiberglass insulation works, from your About.com Guide
How fiberglass insulation works, from your About.com Guide
Index of Carbon/Graphite Composite Material Properties
Index of material properties for carbon and graphite composite materials.
Index of material properties for carbon and graphite composite materials.
Glass Fiber Reinforcements
A family of reinforcing materials for reinforced plastics based on single filaments of glass ranging in diameter from 3 to 19 micrometers.
A family of reinforcing materials for reinforced plastics based on single filaments of glass ranging in diameter from 3 to 19 micrometers.
Software for Composites
Learn about the software used in composites, when designing products or creating a visual prototype on a computer.
Learn about the software used in composites, when designing products or creating a visual prototype on a computer.
K-Value
(1) A number calculated from dilute solution viscosity measurements of a polymer, used to denote degree of polymerization or molecular size.
(1) A number calculated from dilute solution viscosity measurements of a polymer, used to denote degree of polymerization or molecular size.
Closed Mold Mfg
Closed mold manufacturing, for more efficient composite manufacturing. Learn the three common types of closed molding, and their advantages.
Closed mold manufacturing, for more efficient composite manufacturing. Learn the three common types of closed molding, and their advantages.
Degree of Polymerization
The length in monomeric or base units of the average linear polymer chain at time t in a polymerization reaction.
The length in monomeric or base units of the average linear polymer chain at time t in a polymerization reaction.
Lincoln Composites Builds Largest CNG Fuel Tank
Lincoln Composites has designed, manufactured, and qualified the largest natural gas vehicle (NGV) fuel tank in the world. These tanks allow the cost of the CNG package of the vehicle to be lowered by hundreds of dollars while also reducing the vehicle weight by hundreds of pounds.
Lincoln Composites has designed, manufactured, and qualified the largest natural gas vehicle (NGV) fuel tank in the world. These tanks allow the cost of the CNG package of the vehicle to be lowered by hundreds of dollars while also reducing the vehicle weight by hundreds of pounds.
Bismaleimide Resins
These addition-type polyimides or maleimide-based polyimides are used in high performance structural composites requiring higher temperature use and increased toughness.
These addition-type polyimides or maleimide-based polyimides are used in high performance structural composites requiring higher temperature use and increased toughness.
Anti-Foaming Agent
An additive which reduces the surface tension of a solution or emulsion, thus inhibiting or modifying the formation of a foam.
An additive which reduces the surface tension of a solution or emulsion, thus inhibiting or modifying the formation of a foam.
Yield Point
The first point at which permanent deformation of a stressed specimen begins to take place.
The first point at which permanent deformation of a stressed specimen begins to take place.
Examples Of Composites
There are numerous examples of composites, many of which can be seen around the house. Learn about what every day products are manufactured with FRP composites.
There are numerous examples of composites, many of which can be seen around the house. Learn about what every day products are manufactured with FRP composites.
Linear Polymer
A polymer in which the molecules form long chains without branches or cross-linked structures.
A polymer in which the molecules form long chains without branches or cross-linked structures.
Viscosity, Intrinsic
A measure of the capability of a polymer in solution to enhance the viscosity of the solution.
A measure of the capability of a polymer in solution to enhance the viscosity of the solution.
Pseudoplastic Fluid
One whose apparent viscosity or consistency decreases instantaneously with increase in rate of shear; i.
One whose apparent viscosity or consistency decreases instantaneously with increase in rate of shear; i.
Entropy Resins
Entropy Resins is a manufacturer of bio-based epoxy resins that are truly environmentally friendly. Learn more about their products and company with a question and answer session with their founders.
Entropy Resins is a manufacturer of bio-based epoxy resins that are truly environmentally friendly. Learn more about their products and company with a question and answer session with their founders.
Honeycomb Manufacturing and Elastic Properties
Because of the way it is manufactured, honeycomb has one direction which is stronger and stiffer.
Because of the way it is manufactured, honeycomb has one direction which is stronger and stiffer.
Thermal Diffusivity
A measure of the rate at which a temperature disturbance at one point in a body travels to another point.
A measure of the rate at which a temperature disturbance at one point in a body travels to another point.
core material
Core materials are used in composites to provide strength and stiffness without adding much additional weight. Learn about the most common composite core materials.
Core materials are used in composites to provide strength and stiffness without adding much additional weight. Learn about the most common composite core materials.
Devulcanizing Rubber - Composite Materials
Goodyear Patents Devulcanizing Process, from your About.com Guide
Goodyear Patents Devulcanizing Process, from your About.com Guide
Craig Collier
Craig Collier is a composites industry veteran. Learn about his latest development in software used in composite design and analysis, Hypersize.
Craig Collier is a composites industry veteran. Learn about his latest development in software used in composite design and analysis, Hypersize.
Carbon Fiber in Sports
If one wants to be the best in sports, then chances are they need to use carbon fiber. Be it in the sole of running shoes or used in the shaft of an arrow, carbon fiber dominates the sporting goods world.
If one wants to be the best in sports, then chances are they need to use carbon fiber. Be it in the sole of running shoes or used in the shaft of an arrow, carbon fiber dominates the sporting goods world.
Thermal Properties
At a certain temperature, FRP composites will soften and lose their structure. This point is called the Glass Transition Temperature, or Tg.
At a certain temperature, FRP composites will soften and lose their structure. This point is called the Glass Transition Temperature, or Tg.
Coefficient of Thermal Conductivity
The rate at which heat is transferred by conduction through a unit cross-sectional area of material when a temperature gradient exists perpendicular to the area.
The rate at which heat is transferred by conduction through a unit cross-sectional area of material when a temperature gradient exists perpendicular to the area.
Coextrusion
The process of extruding two or more materials through a single die with two or more orifices arranged so that the extrudates merge and weld together into a laminar structure before chilling.
The process of extruding two or more materials through a single die with two or more orifices arranged so that the extrudates merge and weld together into a laminar structure before chilling.
Halpin-Tsai Equations
These equations are useful for the prediction of the ply properties of composite materials.
These equations are useful for the prediction of the ply properties of composite materials.
Basic Design Principals of Structural Sandwich Composites
Section 1.2 of MIL-HDBK-23A, basic design principles of structural sandwich composites..
Section 1.2 of MIL-HDBK-23A, basic design principles of structural sandwich composites..
Aprotic Solvent
An organic solvent that does not exchange protons with a substance dissolved in it.
An organic solvent that does not exchange protons with a substance dissolved in it.
Dissipation Factor-Electrical
The ratio of the power loss in a dielectric material to the total power transmitted through the dielectric, the imperfection of the dielectric.
The ratio of the power loss in a dielectric material to the total power transmitted through the dielectric, the imperfection of the dielectric.
How To Carbon Fiber
Discover how to carbon fiber, the guide for learning the various aspects of carbon fiber composites and how to work with the lightweight composite material know as carbon fiber.
Discover how to carbon fiber, the guide for learning the various aspects of carbon fiber composites and how to work with the lightweight composite material know as carbon fiber.
MIL-HDBK-23 A Cover Page
Cover page for MIL-HDBK-23A, the Military Handbook on Structural Sandwich Composites.
Cover page for MIL-HDBK-23A, the Military Handbook on Structural Sandwich Composites.
Material Properties AS4/3501-6 Carbon Epoxy
Material properties of AS4/3501-6 carbon epoxy unidirectional prepreg.
Material properties of AS4/3501-6 carbon epoxy unidirectional prepreg.
Material Properties T300/5208 Carbon Epoxy
Material properties of T300/5208 carbon epoxy unidirectional prepreg.
Material properties of T300/5208 carbon epoxy unidirectional prepreg.
Isotactic Polymer
Pertaining to a type of polymeric molecular structure containing a sequence of regularly spaced, asymmetric atoms arranged in like configuration in a polymer chain.
Pertaining to a type of polymeric molecular structure containing a sequence of regularly spaced, asymmetric atoms arranged in like configuration in a polymer chain.
Polypropylene
What is polypropylene? The versatile plastic polypropylene is used throughout our daily life, and has become a common piece for packaging and plastic products.
What is polypropylene? The versatile plastic polypropylene is used throughout our daily life, and has become a common piece for packaging and plastic products.
Dictionary of Composite Materials Technology
Introduction to the Composite Materials Glossary.
Introduction to the Composite Materials Glossary.
Carbon Fiber Tubes
Carbon fiber tubes are extremely strong and stiff, yet very lightweight. Discover how they are manufactured and their applications.
Carbon fiber tubes are extremely strong and stiff, yet very lightweight. Discover how they are manufactured and their applications.
Laminating Resins
Laminating resins are the foundation of composite material manufacturing. Learn about the various components that make laminating resins unique.
Laminating resins are the foundation of composite material manufacturing. Learn about the various components that make laminating resins unique.
Diffusion Coefficient
A factor of proportionality representing the amount of substance diffusing across a unit area through a unit concentration gradient in unit time.
A factor of proportionality representing the amount of substance diffusing across a unit area through a unit concentration gradient in unit time.
Cold Flow
The distortion, deformation, or dimensional change which takes place in materials under continuous load at temperatures within the working range (cold flow is not due to heat softening).
The distortion, deformation, or dimensional change which takes place in materials under continuous load at temperatures within the working range (cold flow is not due to heat softening).
Matlab Code to Generate Composite ABBD Matrices
Now we have everything we need to relate applied moments and forces to strains and curvatures %Generate
Now we have everything we need to relate applied moments and forces to strains and curvatures %Generate
Esterification
A process involving the interaction of a compound possessing a hydroxyl group with an acid, with the elimination of water.
A process involving the interaction of a compound possessing a hydroxyl group with an acid, with the elimination of water.
Molecular Weight Distribution
The relative amounts of polymers of different molecular weights that comprise a given specimen of a polymer.
The relative amounts of polymers of different molecular weights that comprise a given specimen of a polymer.
Molal Solution
A solution which contains one mole of the solute per 1000 grams of the solvent.
A solution which contains one mole of the solute per 1000 grams of the solvent.
Geopolymer Composites: A Ceramic Alternative to Polymer Matrices
The 105th Annual Meeting and Exposition of the American Ceramic Society covered a wide range of topics. As part of the symposium on ceramic matrix composites, a special session on geopolymer composites was held. First developed in France several decades ago, geopolymers are being investigated as an alternative to organic matrices.
The 105th Annual Meeting and Exposition of the American Ceramic Society covered a wide range of topics. As part of the symposium on ceramic matrix composites, a special session on geopolymer composites was held. First developed in France several decades ago, geopolymers are being investigated as an alternative to organic matrices.
Curing Agents
Substances or mixtures of substances added to a polymer composition to promote or control the curing reaction.
Substances or mixtures of substances added to a polymer composition to promote or control the curing reaction.
Material Properties Generic E-Glass Epoxy
Material properties of generic E-glass epoxy unidirectional prepreg.
Material properties of generic E-glass epoxy unidirectional prepreg.
Brookfield Viscometer
The Brookfield Synchro-Lectric Viscometer is an instrument used for measuring the viscosity of plastisols and other liquids of a thixotropic nature.
The Brookfield Synchro-Lectric Viscometer is an instrument used for measuring the viscosity of plastisols and other liquids of a thixotropic nature.
Composite Turbine Fan Blades Superior to Titanium Blades
UCSD engineers working with NASA and the USAF are developing composite turbine fan blades for jet engines. Initial tests show the composite blades are superior to the titanium blades they would replace.
UCSD engineers working with NASA and the USAF are developing composite turbine fan blades for jet engines. Initial tests show the composite blades are superior to the titanium blades they would replace.
Statistics and the Strength of Composite Materials
Effect of statistical distributions on composite material strength.
Effect of statistical distributions on composite material strength.
Use of Natural Fibers in Composites to Grow Rapidly
Kline & Company predicts demand for natural fiber composites will increase significantly.
Kline & Company predicts demand for natural fiber composites will increase significantly.
Essential Composite Materials Reference Books
The three books every composites engineer needs.: library reference books asm intl new composites asm international undergraduate textbook
The three books every composites engineer needs.: library reference books asm intl new composites asm international undergraduate textbook
Secant Modulus
The slope of the line connecting the origin and a given point on the stress-strain curve, or the ratio of nominal stress to corresponding strain at any specified point on the stress-strain curve expressed in force per unit area.
The slope of the line connecting the origin and a given point on the stress-strain curve, or the ratio of nominal stress to corresponding strain at any specified point on the stress-strain curve expressed in force per unit area.
Aldila Introduces New Graphite Golf Shafts
Aldila is introducing two new HM-40 graphite golf shafts.
Aldila is introducing two new HM-40 graphite golf shafts.
Griffith Equation
A relationship that can be used for analyzing the balance of energy applied and released in bond breakage as a crack propagates.
A relationship that can be used for analyzing the balance of energy applied and released in bond breakage as a crack propagates.
Fundamental Stiffness Formulas for Sandwich Components
Section 1.3 of MIL-HDBK-23A, fundemantal stiffness formuals for structural sandwich composites.
Section 1.3 of MIL-HDBK-23A, fundemantal stiffness formuals for structural sandwich composites.
Hardener
A substance or mixture added to a plastic composition to take part in and promote or control the curing action, Also a substance added to control the degree of hardness of the cured film.
A substance or mixture added to a plastic composition to take part in and promote or control the curing action, Also a substance added to control the degree of hardness of the cured film.
Syndiotactic Polymer
A polymer whose monomer units are oriented alternately dextro and levo or a polymer structure in which monomer units attached to the polymer backbone alternate in a-b-a-b fashion on one side of the backbone and, if present on the other side, are arranged in a b-a-b-a fashion.
A polymer whose monomer units are oriented alternately dextro and levo or a polymer structure in which monomer units attached to the polymer backbone alternate in a-b-a-b fashion on one side of the backbone and, if present on the other side, are arranged in a b-a-b-a fashion.
Materials Database - Composite Materials
Search the MatWeb Database for material properties, from your About.com Guide
Search the MatWeb Database for material properties, from your About.com Guide
Glare: History of the Development of a New Aircraft Material
: delft university of technology fiber metal laminate glass composites a380 jumbo jet technology delft
: delft university of technology fiber metal laminate glass composites a380 jumbo jet technology delft
Gel Coat Application
Gel coat application is a science. Learn the proper methods to apply gel coat in composite manufacturing.
Gel coat application is a science. Learn the proper methods to apply gel coat in composite manufacturing.
Proportional Limit
The greatest stress which a material is capable of sustaining without deviation from proportionality of stress and strain (Hooke's Law) or the point on the stress-strain curve at which stress ceases to be proportional to strain.
The greatest stress which a material is capable of sustaining without deviation from proportionality of stress and strain (Hooke's Law) or the point on the stress-strain curve at which stress ceases to be proportional to strain.
Elongation at Break
Elongation recorded at the moment of rupture of the specimen, often expressed as a percentage of the original length.
Elongation recorded at the moment of rupture of the specimen, often expressed as a percentage of the original length.
St. Venant's Principle
The difference between the stresses caused by statically equivalent load systems is insignificant at distances greater than the largest dimension of the area over which the loads are acting.
The difference between the stresses caused by statically equivalent load systems is insignificant at distances greater than the largest dimension of the area over which the loads are acting.
Rockwell Hardness
The hardness of a material expressed as a number derived from the net increase in depth of impression as the load on an indentor is increased from a fixed minor amount to a major load and then returned to the minor load.
The hardness of a material expressed as a number derived from the net increase in depth of impression as the load on an indentor is increased from a fixed minor amount to a major load and then returned to the minor load.
Fick's First Law of Diffusion
A relationship wherein the flux of a diffusing species is proportional to the concentration gradient.
A relationship wherein the flux of a diffusing species is proportional to the concentration gradient.
Dimensional Stability
Ability of a substance or part to retain its shape when subjected to varying degrees of temperature, moisture, pressure, or other stress.
Ability of a substance or part to retain its shape when subjected to varying degrees of temperature, moisture, pressure, or other stress.
Velocity Gradient
With respect to material being sheared, velocity gradient is the change dv in relative velocity v between parallel planes with respect to the change dr in perpendicular distance r throughout the depth of the material.
With respect to material being sheared, velocity gradient is the change dv in relative velocity v between parallel planes with respect to the change dr in perpendicular distance r throughout the depth of the material.
Carbon Fiber Cloth
Learn about carbon fiber cloth. Discover the terms used in carbon fiber manufacturing such as, 3k plain weave carbon, and 282 carbon fiber.
Learn about carbon fiber cloth. Discover the terms used in carbon fiber manufacturing such as, 3k plain weave carbon, and 282 carbon fiber.
Environmental Health and Safety Issues With Composites
An overview of the environmental, health and safety (ES&H) issues associated with composites and plastics.
An overview of the environmental, health and safety (ES&H) issues associated with composites and plastics.
Young's Modulus
The ratio of tensile stress to tensile strain below the proportional limit.
The ratio of tensile stress to tensile strain below the proportional limit.
Graft Polymer
A polymer comprising molecules in which the main backbone chain of atoms has attached to it at various points side chains containing different atoms or groups from those in the main chain.
A polymer comprising molecules in which the main backbone chain of atoms has attached to it at various points side chains containing different atoms or groups from those in the main chain.
Blowing Agent
Any substance which alone or in combination with other substances is capable of producing a cellular structure in a plastic.
Any substance which alone or in combination with other substances is capable of producing a cellular structure in a plastic.
Compression Molding
A method of molding in which the molding material, generally preheated, is first placed in an open, heated mold cavity.
A method of molding in which the molding material, generally preheated, is first placed in an open, heated mold cavity.
Methoxyl Group
The monovalent group, -OCH3, characteristic of methyl alcohol and its esters or ethers.
The monovalent group, -OCH3, characteristic of methyl alcohol and its esters or ethers.
Carbinol
Monovalent primary alcohol radical.: ethyl alcohol aliphatic methanol nbsp
Monovalent primary alcohol radical.: ethyl alcohol aliphatic methanol nbsp
Turbostratic
A type of crystalline structure where the basal planes have slipped sideways relative to each other, causing the spacing between planes to be greater than ideal.
A type of crystalline structure where the basal planes have slipped sideways relative to each other, causing the spacing between planes to be greater than ideal.
An Introduction to Laminated Composite Theory
Composites Short Course This presentation covers the basics of classical laminated plate theory as applied
Composites Short Course This presentation covers the basics of classical laminated plate theory as applied
Composite Fabric Weight
Converting composite fabric weights to the same unit of measurement is important when comparing two materials. Learn the conversion of grams per square meter to ounces per square yard.
Converting composite fabric weights to the same unit of measurement is important when comparing two materials. Learn the conversion of grams per square meter to ounces per square yard.
Viscous Flow
A type of fluid movement in which all particles of the fluid, flow in a straight line parallel to the axis of a containing pipe or channel with little or no mixing or turbidity.
A type of fluid movement in which all particles of the fluid, flow in a straight line parallel to the axis of a containing pipe or channel with little or no mixing or turbidity.
Dielectric Loss
A loss of energy which eventually produces a rise in temperature of a dielectric placed in an alternating electrical field.
A loss of energy which eventually produces a rise in temperature of a dielectric placed in an alternating electrical field.
Photovoltaic Fabrics Combine Cloth with Solar Cells
A new type of synthetic fibers can generate electricity when exposed to light. Applications range from clothing to flexible solar arrays.
A new type of synthetic fibers can generate electricity when exposed to light. Applications range from clothing to flexible solar arrays.
Viscometer
An instrument used for measuring the viscosity and flow properties of fluids.
An instrument used for measuring the viscosity and flow properties of fluids.
Composites In Boats
Some form of composites have been used in boats since man first ventured into the sea. But modern FRP composite materials in boats is still relatively new.
Some form of composites have been used in boats since man first ventured into the sea. But modern FRP composite materials in boats is still relatively new.
Post-Cure
Additional elevated temperature cure usually without pressure to improve final properties or complete the cure.
Additional elevated temperature cure usually without pressure to improve final properties or complete the cure.
Trade Name Index (A - B) - Composite Materials
Composite materials listed by trade name, from your About.com Guide
Composite materials listed by trade name, from your About.com Guide
Dictionary of Composite Materials Technology - Preface
Preface to the Dictionary of Composite Materials Technology.
Preface to the Dictionary of Composite Materials Technology.
Resin Transfer Molding
A closed-mold pressure injection system which allows for faster gel and cure times as compared to contact molded parts.
A closed-mold pressure injection system which allows for faster gel and cure times as compared to contact molded parts.
Careers in Composites - Composite Materials
Career options in the composites industry, from your About.com Guide
Career options in the composites industry, from your About.com Guide
Uses of Fiberglass
Fiberglass reinforced polymers are the original composite materials. They remain the back-bone of the composites industry. Learn about glass fiber and what products are made with this composite.
Fiberglass reinforced polymers are the original composite materials. They remain the back-bone of the composites industry. Learn about glass fiber and what products are made with this composite.
Condensation Polymerization
A process in which water or some other simple substance separates from two or more of the polymer molecules upon their combination.
A process in which water or some other simple substance separates from two or more of the polymer molecules upon their combination.
Tenacity
As used in yarn manufacture and textile engineering, tenacity denotes the strength of a yarn or a filament of given size.
As used in yarn manufacture and textile engineering, tenacity denotes the strength of a yarn or a filament of given size.
Recycled Cellulose/Glass Composite Replaces Marine Plywood
All-A-Board composite, made from recycled plastic cellulose and glass fiber, is gaining acceptance in the marine industry as a plywood replacement.
All-A-Board composite, made from recycled plastic cellulose and glass fiber, is gaining acceptance in the marine industry as a plywood replacement.
Heat-Treated Wood Provides Alternative to Hardwood
Heat treating soft lumber provides rot resistance and dimensional stability, allowing it to be used in place of traditional hardwoods.
Heat treating soft lumber provides rot resistance and dimensional stability, allowing it to be used in place of traditional hardwoods.
Advanced Grid Structures - Composite Materials Date: 05/25/98
OSP update covering development tooling and fairing schedule, from your About.com Guide
OSP update covering development tooling and fairing schedule, from your About.com Guide
Laminate Stacking Sequence
The stacking sequence defines the thickness, orientation, and order of each ply in a laminate.
The stacking sequence defines the thickness, orientation, and order of each ply in a laminate.
Intro to FRP
Fiber Reinforced Polymer(FRP Composites) is an extremely useful material used in a wide range of industries and applications. Learn which industries are using FRP composites
Fiber Reinforced Polymer(FRP Composites) is an extremely useful material used in a wide range of industries and applications. Learn which industries are using FRP composites
Prepregs
Prepregs are pre-impregnated fiber reinforcements or cloths that are used to manufacture composites. Learn the basics of prepregs here.
Prepregs are pre-impregnated fiber reinforcements or cloths that are used to manufacture composites. Learn the basics of prepregs here.
Water Vapor Permeability
The rate of water vapor transmission per unit area per unit of vapor pressure differential under test conditions.
The rate of water vapor transmission per unit area per unit of vapor pressure differential under test conditions.
Drilling Graphite - Composite Materials
The best drill bits for drilling graphite, from your About.com Guide
The best drill bits for drilling graphite, from your About.com Guide
Toray Revises FY2002 Sales and Earnings Forecast Downwards
Toray has revised its fiscal year 2002 earnings and sales downwards. Sales are expected to be flat to slightly lower, while income will decrease significantly.
Toray has revised its fiscal year 2002 earnings and sales downwards. Sales are expected to be flat to slightly lower, while income will decrease significantly.
Axial Load
A pure tension or compression load acting along the long axis of a straight structural member.
A pure tension or compression load acting along the long axis of a straight structural member.
Free-Radical Polymerization
A type of polymerization, in which the propagating species is a long chain free radical, usually initiated by the attack of free radicals derived by thermal or photo-chemical decomposition of unstable materials called initiators.
A type of polymerization, in which the propagating species is a long chain free radical, usually initiated by the attack of free radicals derived by thermal or photo-chemical decomposition of unstable materials called initiators.
Natural Composites
Wood is a natural composite material containing an orientated hard phase, for strength and stiffness, and a softer one for toughness.
Wood is a natural composite material containing an orientated hard phase, for strength and stiffness, and a softer one for toughness.
Health and Safety: Fibers - Composite Materials Date: 10/06/98
Health and safety issues when dealing with composites, from your Mining Company Guide
Health and safety issues when dealing with composites, from your Mining Company Guide
Diallyl Phthalate
In the monomeric form, a colorless liquid ester widely used as a cross-linking monomer for unsaturated polyester resins, and as a polymerizable plasticizer for many resins.
In the monomeric form, a colorless liquid ester widely used as a cross-linking monomer for unsaturated polyester resins, and as a polymerizable plasticizer for many resins.
PHR
Abbreviation for parts per hundred parts of resin.
Abbreviation for parts per hundred parts of resin.
Review of the Handbook of Sandwich Construction
Review of the Handbook of Sandwich Construction, edited by Dan Zenkert.
Review of the Handbook of Sandwich Construction, edited by Dan Zenkert.
Apparent Density
The weight per unit volume of a material including voids inherent in the material as tested.
The weight per unit volume of a material including voids inherent in the material as tested.
Scotch Tape Test
A method for evaluating the adhesion of a coating to a substrate.
A method for evaluating the adhesion of a coating to a substrate.
Factors of Safety - Composite Materials Date: 12/22/97
Information about the role of composites in the F-117A crash, from your About.com Guide
Information about the role of composites in the F-117A crash, from your About.com Guide