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By the broadest
definition, a composite material is one in which two or more materials
that are different are combined to form a single structure with
an identifiable interface. The properties of that new structure
are dependent upon the properties of the constituent materials
as well as the properties of the interface. Within the composite,
it is still possible to easily tell the different materials apart.
They do not tend to blend or dissolve into each other.
Composites
have been used by humans for thousands of years. The most common
primitive use was mud bricks, which was made of mud and straw.
Today, you can see the applications in which composite materials
are used. For example, our roadways are paved in either aggregate
reinforced portland cement or asphalt concrete. You can also find
examples in your home such as fiberglass tubs and synthetic granite
or marble counter tops.
There
are also composites found in nature. Examples of such are wood
and human teeth.
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Composites