Composite Materials

Image

When two or more material with different properties is combined together they form a composite material. The constituents are combined in such a way that they keep their individual physical phases and are non-soluble in each other or do not form a new chemical compound. That is why a composite is considered to be any multiphase material system that exhibits a combination of properties that makes the composite superior to each of the constituent phases. The primary function of matrix is to hold the fiber to form a certain shape. Besides, the functions of the matrix are also to transfer stress between the reinforcing fibers and to protect them from mechanical and environmental damage. The function of reinforcing phase in matrix is to improve the mechanical properties such as strength, stiffness etc. As per Berghezan the composite material is to be designed in such a way that the individual component retains their characteristic are so incorporated that the composite takes advantage of their superior properties without compromising on the weakness of either. When the matrix is a polymer, the composite is called polymer matrix composite.

Carbon black and phenol formaldehyde composites are primarily developed and designed for high temperature applications which require strength retention. These materials are known for their strength, lightness in weight and thermal properties. Phenolic resins are used as matrix precursors in carbon black properties because they are relatively easy to impregnate fibers in traditional polymer composites processing. To develop such composite, carbon black as a filler and resole- type phenol formaldehyde resin (PF) as a polymer matrix have been used in this study. The most important characteristics of carbon black is its high surface area, since the particles are small in size; therefore, the specific surface area is large. This high surface area facilitates excellent interaction between filler and polymer matrix, which delivers composites with improved properties.

Medial contact

John
Editorial assistant
Industrial Chemistry Open Access