Introduction

Abstract

It is a truism that technological development depends on advances in the field of materials. One does not have to be an expert to realize that the most advanced turbine or aircraft design is of no use if adequate materials to bear the service loads and conditions are not available. Whatever the field may be, the final limitation on advancement depends on materials. Composite materials in this regard represent nothing but a giant step in the ever-constant endeavor of optimization in materials.

Problems

• 1.1. Describe the structure and properties of some fiber reinforced composites that occur in nature.

• 1.2. Many ceramic-based composite materials are used in the electronics industry. Describe some of these electroceramic composites.

• 1.3. Describe the use of composite materials in the Voyager airplane that circled the globe for the first time without refueling in flight.

• 1.4. Nail is a fibrous composite. Describe its components, microstructure, and properties.

• 1.5. Discuss the use of composite materials in civilian aircraft, with special attention to Boeing 787 and Airbus A380 aircraft.