Aug 9 2013
A fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) is a high-performance composite material made up of three components - the fibers as the discontinuous or dispersed phase, the matrix acts as the continuous phase, and the fine interphase region or the interface.
The matrix is basically a homogeneous and monolithic material in which a fiber system of a composite is embedded. It is completely continuous. The matrix provides a medium for binding and holding reinforcements together into a solid. It offers protection to the reinforcements from environmental damage, serves to transfer load, and provides finish, texture, color, durability and functionality.
Types of Composite Matrix Materials
There are three main types of composite matrix materials:
- Ceramic matrix - Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are a subgroup of composite materials. They consist of ceramic fibers embedded in a ceramic matrix, thus forming a ceramic fiber reinforced ceramic (CFRC) material. The matrix and fibers can consist of any ceramic material. CMC materials were designed to overcome the major disadvantages such as low fracture toughness, brittleness, and limited thermal shock resistance, faced by the traditional technical ceramics.
- Metal matrix - Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are composite materials that contain at least two constituent parts – a metal and another material or a different metal. The metal matrix is reinforced with the other material to improve strength and wear. Where three or more constituent parts are present, it is called a hybrid composite. In structural applications, the matrix is usually composed of a lighter metal such as magnesium, titanium, or aluminum. In high temperature applications, cobalt and cobalt-nickel alloy matrices are common. Typical MMC's manufacturing is basically divided into three types: solid, liquid, and vapor. Continuous carbon, silicon carbide, or ceramic fibers are some of the materials that can be embedded in a metallic matrix material. MMCs are fire resistant, operate in a wide range of temperatures, do not absorb moisture, and possess better electrical and thermal conductivity. They have also found applications to be resistant to radiation damage, and to not suffer from outgassing. Most metals and alloys make good matrices for composite applications.
- Polymer matrix - Polymer matrix composites (PMCs) can be divided into three sub-types, namely, thermoset, thermoplastic, and rubber. Polymer is a large molecule composed of repeating structural units connected by covalent chemical bonds. PMC's consist of a polymer matrix combined with a fibrous reinforcing dispersed phase. They are cheaper with easier fabrication methods. PMC's are less dense than metals or ceramics, can resist atmospheric and other forms of corrosion, and exhibit superior resistance to the conduction of electrical current.
Composite Matrix Material Applications
The following are common application areas of composite matrix materials:
- Electrical moldings
- Decorative laminates
- High performance Cookware
- Sealants and gaskets
- Heat shield systems (capable of handling high temperatures, thermal shock conditions and heavy vibration)
- Components for high-temperature gas turbines such as combustion chambers, stator vanes and turbine blades
- Brake disks and brake system components used in extreme thermal shock environments
- Components for slide bearings under heavy loads requiring high corrosion and wear resistance
- Carbide drills are made from a tough cobalt matrix with hard tungsten carbide particles inside
- Components for burners, flame holders, and hot gas ducts
Sources and Further Reading