What are the two most common structural composites?

The most common are: Fibre reinforced composites. Particulate reinforced composites.

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Then, are composites cheap?

Low cost per cubic inch ? When comparing costs based on volume, thermoset composites have lower material costs than traditional materials such as wood, engineered thermoplastics and metals. Regarding this, why is composite expensive? In terms of labor, it is fairly expensive given that composite manufacturing is a highly specialized field. The same is true for machining. Manufacturers need highly technical machines to produce the products they sell. The more advanced the products, the more expensive the labor and machining costs.

Consequently, why are composite materials so expensive?

Overall Cost. This is due to easier installation of lighter composite components and far lower whole-life maintenance costs. It is recommended that supply chain managers of projects be consulted directly for the initial capital outlay and whole-life cost implications of using composites. In respect to this, why are nanocomposites better than composites? Nanocomposites have a higher strength to weight ratio than carbon fiber or glass fiber reinforced composites. The tensile strength of carbon fiber is 6,300 MPa with a specific strength of 2,457 kN x m/kg while that of carbon nanotubes is 23,000 MPa and a specific strength of 45,268 kN x m/kg.

Correspondingly, why do we need composite materials?

The primary reason composite materials are chosen for components is because of weight saving for its relative stiffness and strength. For example, carbon-fibre reinforced composite can be five times stronger than 1020 grade steel while having only one fifth of the weight.