Fibre reinforced composite material: Fibre reinforced composite can be made from metals, ceramics, glasses or fibre that have been turned into graphite which is known as carbon fibre.

These composites are very expensive as reinforcement of fibre into matrix is difficult. Fibre pull is possible and while increasing or decreasing length bond breaking is observed. In time trial racing bicycle frame carbon fibre is used along with matrix phase which is made up of thermosetting plastic.

In racing car glass fibre is used along with thermosetting plastic.

i) Continuous & aligned composite:

Its features are -

1. The properties are highly anisotropic & depend on the direction in which they are measured.
2. The maximum strength is achieved in longitudinal direction as this is direction of reinforcement.
3. In transverse direction reinforcement is nil hence fracture occurs at relatively low tensile strength.
4. For other directions the strength is in between these two extremes.

ii) Discontinuous fibre reinforced composite:

Its features are as follows 1. Reinforcement efficiency is 1/5 that of continuous. 2. Mechanical properties are isotropic 3. Applications are multidirectional so it is ideal for giving complicated shape.

A] Fibre glass:

Fibre glass is well known composite, made up of glass fibre, either continuous or discontinuous embedded in polymer matrix (thermosetting). It is popular material due to following reasons.

1. It is easily drawn into high strength fibres from its molten state.
2. It is easily available & its conversion in to fibre is very economical.
3. When combined with plastic it imparts corrosion & chemical resistance property.

Limitations:

1. In spite of very high strength they are not stiff & rigid hence are not suitable for construction purpose.
2. They can be used up to temperature limit of 2000C above this temperature most of the plastic begin to flow.

Applications:

1. Automotive & marine bodies
2. Plastic pipes, shortage containers & industrial pipes.

B] Carbon fiber reinforced material:

1. It has highest specific strength &specific modulus.
2. They retain their strength at higher temperature as well.
3. At room temperature carbon fiber are not affected by moisture, solvents acids & bases.
4. They exhibit diverse physical & mechanical