A. What is a composite? What are the advantages of composites as structural materials?
B. The properties of short discontinuous fiber composites depend on several factors. What are these factors?
C. An electrical contact material is produced by infiltrating copper into a porous tungsten carbide compact. Calculate the volume fraction of copper in the composite and the original density of the tungsten carbide compact.
A composite is a material made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties. The advantages of composites as structural materials include a high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility.
The properties of short, discontinuous fiber composites depend on factors like fiber orientation, fiber length, and fiber volume fraction.
The volume fraction of copper in the composite and the original density of the tungsten carbide compact can be calculated given the densities and final composite density.
What is a composite?
A composite is a material made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties. By combining these materials, composites can exhibit enhanced properties that individual materials do not possess.
Advantages of composites as structural materials
Advantages of composites include:
- High strength-to-weight ratio: Composites are lightweight yet strong, making them ideal for applications where weight is a concern.
- Corrosion resistance: Many composites are resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for use in harsh environments.
- Design flexibility: Composites can be tailored to meet specific design requirements, allowing for the creation of complex shapes and structures.
Factors affecting properties of short discontinuous fiber composites
The properties of short, discontinuous fiber composites are influenced by several factors, including:
- Fiber orientation: The alignment of the fibers within the matrix can impact the overall strength and stiffness of the composite.
- Fiber length: Longer fibers can provide better load transfer within the composite, affecting its mechanical properties.
- Fiber volume fraction: The amount of fiber present in the composite relative to the matrix can influence its strength and other properties.
Calculation of volume fraction of copper and original density of tungsten carbide compact
To calculate the volume fraction of copper in the composite and the original density of the tungsten carbide compact, the following steps can be taken:
1. Calculate the volume fraction of copper using the densities of copper and tungsten carbide, as well as the final composite density.
2. Apply the rule of mixtures and the mass conservation principle to determine the original density of the tungsten carbide compact before infiltration with copper.
By performing these calculations, the volume fraction of copper and the original density of tungsten carbide can be determined, providing valuable insights into the composition and properties of the composite material.