Composite materials are artificially created inhomogeneous and solid materials with two or more clearly separated components. In many composites, components are separated into non-reinforcing elements and a matrix. As a rule, in composite materials for structural purposes, the included reinforcing elements provide the mechanical characteristics necessary for the material, and the matrix provides the joint work of the reinforcing elements present and their protection from aggressive chemical environments and mechanical damage.
The mechanical action of the composition is determined by the ratio of the properties of the reinforcing element of the matrix and the strengths of the bonds present between them. The operability and efficiency that composite materials have, depend on the correct selection of technologies for combining the original components, which ensures the strength of the connection between the components while maintaining their original characteristics.
When the matrix and reinforcing elements are combined, a complex of properties is formed in the composition, reflecting both the initial characteristics of the included components and properties that are not inherent in these components. So, the boundaries between the matrix and the reinforcing elements can significantly increase the resistance of materials to cracking, while in composites, in comparison with homogeneous metals, an increase in static strength affects not a decrease, but, usually, an increase in fracture toughness. >
In the process of creating composite materials, various matrices and reinforcing fillers are used - textolite, graphite plastic, getinax, glass, etc. There are materials where a thin fiber made of high-strength alloys is poured with an aluminum mass.
Now, materials scientists are increasingly conducting experiments that allow them to create more convenient and, accordingly, inexpensive materials. A study of self-growing crystalline structures, glued with a polymer adhesive in a single mass, with reinforcing fibers of composite materials from thermoplastics, and other works is being carried out.
