As one of the most regulated industries in the world, aerospace and defense (A&D) requires high-quality materials that meet performance standards. For years, the A&D sector has relied on composite materials to fit those needs. Because of the high strength-to-weight ratio, composite materials have become crucial for aircraft design. Composites were first used in the military industry, providing substantial weight reduction without compromising the integrity of aircraft. And since 2011, it has served both the military and commercial venues adequately.
What Are Composite Materials?
Composite materials are carefully constructed materials made by combining different chemical or physical properties. The component materials used to create this fusion don’t lose their unique properties, nor do they fully blend properties with one another. Instead, each component material works with the other, reinforcing the valuable traits of each other to create a stronger finished product. Engineers can fine-tune the application process to define the exact composite properties desired for each project.
Types of Composite Materials
Because of their versatile use and improved strength, research and development on composite materials is an ever-growing field. While new options are constantly being introduced and current materials improved, there are a few options that have become common in the A&D industry.
Fiber-Reinforced Polymers (FRP)
FRPs take the strength and rigidity of fibers and mix them with the protection and bonding properties of a resin matrix. This combination allows the fibers to transfer stress through shear stresses, providing a more durable material. Commonly used fibers include glass and carbon, mixing with the common matrices of epoxy or vinyl ester to create this composite.
Metal Matrix Composites (MMC)
As the name suggests, MMCs utilize metals to create composite materials. Metals are typically fused with an organic compound and may include the mixing of three or more materials instead of just two. By using metals and organic compounds, MMCs have increased corrosion resistance and temperature control.
Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC)
CMCs are made by combining ceramic materials together, often reinforced with a secondary fiber material for stability. These ceramic-based composites are extremely durable and stable, especially in high-temperature settings. At the same time, they are more lightweight than regular ceramic materials and are less likely to fracture.
Uses for Composite Materials in Aerospace and Defense
Designing aircraft can be challenging, especially if the craft needs to be durable for military or testing use. Using composite materials allows engineers the ability to work with more complex designs. These complex designs provide an increase in strength while simultaneously lowering the weight of the materials. Their high thermal stability and resistance to corrosion make composite materials a prime choice when designing aircraft. And while the materials themselves are more complex, using composite materials for manufacturing aircraft is actually quicker than working with component materials. By speeding up the process and providing additional security benefits, composite materials continue to serve the A&D industry with high success.