Composite Materials: Science and Engineering

A material made from two or more constituent materials is known as composite material. The physical and chemical properties of the constituent materials are generally significantly different. The characteristics of the resultant material are also different from the source materials. Composites are different from mixtures and solid solutions due to the individual components remaining separate and distinct within the resultant structure. The new material can be lighter, stronger or less expensive compared to the constituent materials. A few examples of engineered composite materials are composite wood, reinforced concrete and metal matrix composites. Composite materials are mostly used in building bridges, buildings, cultured marble sinks and racing car bodies. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of composite materials. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in this area at various levels.