FiberReinforced

Fiberreinforced materials, usually referred to as fiber-reinforced composites, are engineered materials in which reinforcing fibers are embedded in a matrix that binds them and transfers loads between fibers. The fiber provides high strength and stiffness, while the matrix protects the fibers, distributes stresses, and gives shape and environmental resistance. Common matrix types include polymers (fiber-reinforced polymers or FRPs), metals, ceramics, and cementitious matrices such as fiber-reinforced concrete. Reinforcement can be continuous or discontinuous and fibers may be glass, carbon, aramid, basalt, steel, or natural fibers.

Properties and design: The properties depend on fiber type, orientation, length, volume fraction, and the quality of the fiber–matrix interface. FRMs exhibit high specific strength and stiffness and often improved fatigue and impact resistance, but properties are anisotropic and sensitive to temperature, moisture, and UV exposure. Design considerations include layup orientation, fiber content, processing-induced defects, and compatibility between fiber, matrix, and environment.

Manufacturing: FRPs are manufactured by methods such as hand lay-up, filament winding, pultrusion, resin transfer molding, and compression molding. Cementitious variants strengthen concrete by distributed fibers to limit crack growth and improve post-cracking toughness. Processing controls fiber alignment, residual stresses, and void content.

Applications: Aerospace, automotive, wind energy, construction, sports equipment, and consumer products. In construction, fiber-reinforced concrete and steel fiber-reinforced concrete improve crack control and durability. In aerospace and automotive, lightweight FRPs replace metals in many components.

Limitations: Costs are higher than many traditional materials; recycling and end-of-life disposal pose challenges; damage can be difficult to detect; and fire performance depends on matrix and fiber type. Natural fibers offer sustainability benefits but lower and more variable mechanical performance.