Composite materials – when low weight and superior mechanical properties are a must

Polymer fibre composites are normally associated with products of carbon, glass and aramide fibres embedded in a matrix (resin) of epoxy, vinylester or polyester. In addition to these conventional systems, there are also reinforced thermoplastics and biocomposites. Common to all types of fibre composites are that they offer a range of advantages based on the mechanical properties of the fibre and the chemical properties of the matrix.

The advantages of this material group include:

• Low density, composites 1.4 – 2 kg/dm3, steel 7.8 kg/dm3
• Good mechanical properties Possibility to arrange fibres in the orientation that is optimal for the application
• Corrosion resistance
• Freedom of design

Composite materials are used in a diversity of application areas, not least in products with high load-bearing capacity and products that must withstand chemically aggressive environments.